5Q4 > A new ADRA Staffer

Twenty-two-year-old Karmen Trajkov is one of ADRA–Australia’s newest employees. As part of her recent studies for an international development degree, Karmen journeyed to the world’s only Hindi kingdom, where she spent time at the ADRA–Nepal office.

1 How long were you in Nepal, and what was it like? > I was there for about five weeks and it was unlike anywhere I’ve been before. It’s a country full of contrasts; from the noise of overpopulated Katmandu, to the peace of the luscious green rice fields on the surrounding hills; from extravagant Buddhist and Hindu temples, to the filthy rivers and roads; from the astonishing palaces of the wealthy, to the makeshift tents of the homeless ethnic minorities; from the beauty and grandeur of the Himalayas, to the ugly face of poverty.

2 What was it like to see ADRA's work up close? > At first it was quite exciting to see the difference within the communities ADRA had helped develop, in comparison to the surrounding communities. But the longer I was there, the more I couldn’t help feeling somewhat depressed. The needs are so great compared to the small proportion of those being met!

3 What were the biggest needs you saw out there? > Where do I begin! Women’s and children’s health. From deformities such as cleft lip and palate, burns victims, and reproductive health problems resulting from a lack of awareness. Displaced people whose homes and villages had been flooded during the monsoon season. The social impact of the Hindi caste system, especially in relation to the poorest of the poor. Child labour: primary-age children working on rock-breaking sites for construction, hammering rocks down into smaller particles for more than 12 hours each day (instead of attending school), and carrying bricks and other heavy building material at construction sites. Limited opportunities and choices for so many.

4 What’s your current role with ADRA–Australia? > My somewhat long-winded title is Private Donor Partnership Program Officer. Basically that means I coordinate all the projects that are privately funded.

5 How can people help?> Take the time to become more socially aware of the needs and events that are happening around the world. Then find creative ways of doing something about the issues you feel strongly about For example: Fox Valley Community church, Sydney, NSW, is the sole fundraiser/donor for an orphans and widows empowerment project in Nyalgunga, Kenya. Explore volunteer opportunities overseas. Financially support projects that are responding to the needs of communities worldwide.