Big up the FB crew

While we're waiting for the next news feeds back from the project sites, I thought it seemed like an appropriate time to point out what a fabulous job all the field base staff are doing and what attracted them to their respective positions. Raleigh is always looking for new staff members and there are plenty of jobs to fill away from the project sites. And India has so much to offer!

Our newly appointed Country Programme Manager Anna, kicks us off.

Why did you choose India?
India chose me. An opportunity came up over the summer for a bespoke expedition - and well, I've pretty much been here ever since!

What has surprised you about India?
Pretty much everything. I still can't get over the scenery and how beautiful it is. I expected the stereotypical cities and slums and am so constantly amazed at the natural beauty of the place. I especially love the forests and the tea plantations.

What's the best part of your role?
I just love getting to know the venturers and supporting them to have a life changing experience. And no two days are ever the same!

One half of the logistics team, Mutley, feels similarly...

Mutley conquering Chamundi Hill

Why did you choose India?
For the diverse cultural mix and to see the real India, out in the villages. It's a land of many contrasts; mountains and beaches. The people are also very friendly and helpful.

What has surprised you about India?
How green it is! And the order and structure that exists beneath the chaos. Everything seems to work most of the time!

What's the best part of your role?
Trying to buy equipment and tools etc in the chaos of the market! The job is quite varied. You can be moving around from project site to project site to project site! It's great seeing the venturers change through the phases of the expedition. Oh and the peanut brittle is pretty good too!

Andrea takes part in the trek training

And here's the other half of the logs team, Andrea:

Why did you choose India?
Many reasons! Some due to time and the length of expedition and the rest for the culture and wildlife. I wanted to have the experience of being able to participate in the culture from the inside out and I think India is one of the few places in the world where you are truly accepted by the community and you get to see the many religious festivals that happen throughout the year. To be able to see animals that are on the verge of extinction and to be a part of a programme that could help turn that around is amazing.

What surprises you about India?
India surprises me on a daily basis from the lush green environment to the beautiful saris the ladies wear to the hustle and bustle of daily life. But what has surprised me the most is the people; their openess to share, their happiness and ability to help you in any way they can.

What's the best part of your role?
Helping the Project Managers with every aspect of their project from sourcing nails down to a pair of wellies and condensed milk. In addition, being able to go out on the loop vehicles and see firsthand the progress in the community and environmental projects from start to finish.

We'll be putting on some field base staff info from time to time and if you know anyone who might be interested in one of the voluntary staff positions in India, see the main Raleigh website.

Myself and Andrea have an early start tomorrow to visit Charlie 1 and the two Echo groups, and Moycey and Claire are currently with Tango 6, so when we all return we'll be adding much more to the blog. In the meantime, a few messages from venturers have found their way back to FB, stand by for more when the loop vehicles return!

To Mothership

Got your letter today! Thank you I LOVED IT! My letter to you was sent three days ago so they overlapped but will reply properly to you letter soon! Loads of love, Vole xxx

From Chris Braggs:
To Libby
I’ve written a letter – hopefully you’ll get it soon. RWARRR!
To Juliette
Hi, I’m writing a letter, hopefully speak soon. X
Mille mercies pour tous gentils meg Maman, Papa & Alix! Et Livia quelle suprise J trop sympa
PS ils ne publient pas les msg “rude,” ils en out censue un qui m’etait dedie! (vi, Matth?) Kisses to all x Claire