‘Amazing’ mission to rebuild Nepal for Zoe
Teen back from trip
Zoe helped take part in special workshops for women Many parts of Nepal were seriously damaged by the quake Rachel has been assisting with youngsters’ learning A Perth teenager has been reflecting on her expedition to Nepal to mark the second anniversary of the earthquake that devastated much of the country.
The earthquake hit Nepal two years ago on April 25, injuring more than 22,000 people and destroying many homes.
Eighteen-year-old Zoe Morris volunteered in the country with Raleigh International to help the people rebuild their communities.
Zoe worked on two projects in Nepal, including helping to build earthquake-resistent houses and improving water and sanitation facilities in the country’s rural areas.
Zoe said: “Two years after the earthquake, we volunteers are continuing to rebuild Nepal. I decided to join a Raleigh expedition because my sister volunteered with them in Costa Rica and had an amazing time, so I knew that Raleigh was something I wanted to be a part of.
“Nepal has faced much devastation by the earthquake so I wanted to go and help in the aftermath. I was also keen to develop my understanding of a diverse culture.
“The purpose of the project was to build houses for families whose homes were destroyed during the earthquake. There is a lack in availability of government funding for repairs to homes, and our project means we can enable families to move from make-shift homes, such as animal shelters, to better and safer housing. We worked with local partner Build Up Nepal to build three homes for local community members.
“We also took part in a water and sanitation project, where we
Zoe Morris volunteering in Nepal which was hit by a devastating earthquake two years ago
provided workshops on hand washing and menstrual hygiene. We worked with a local women’s group to show them how to sew and use reusable sanitary pads.
“We hoped this would encourage women and girls in the community not to be embarrassed and would also make a start to reducing the stigma surrounding menstrual health.
“It was a really proud moment for us when we saw several girls make orders to a local villager who is now making the sanitary pads and selling them. Nepal has not yet met its targets for hygiene and cleanliness, so we knew that this would be an impactful contribution.
“The Nepali people really are the most genuine and embracing people I have met. My expedition was an amazing experience; Raleigh also provided me with an opportunity to develop my leadership skills in a challenging environment.”