TIFF14

It's been a long time since I've blogged...

But I've started a new blog that goes along with my new project.

Very quickly - 

I started a new foundation in support of raising awareness and funding for ALS (amytophic lateral sclerosis).

The foundation is called ALS Double Play.

We are on Facebook, Twitter, and are blogging too! (Website to come)

Okay - TIFF14

Lately there has been some "noise" that TIFF is no longer "the people's festival".

Some say it has become overly Hollywood-ized.

And while a lot of Torontonians enjoy wandering the streets of downtown Toronto with step ladders in tow, this girl, isn't into star gazing.

For me, it's all about seeing films I may never get to see otherwise.

• It's those crazy european films, full of gratuitous sex and violence...or in this year's case, a South African film full of gratuitous nudity and violent crime.
• It's the early morning documentary on a Saturday morning about what we teach children in school about history and politics in a country wrought with war and unrest (This is my land).
• It's about the heart warming story based on true events and histories of Sudanese refugees (The Good Lie).
• And it's the absolutely beautiful musical based on an off-Broadway play that got picked up and will be available next February (The Last Five Years).

Sure, meeting a celebrity would be so much fun!

I mean, seeing Anna Kendrick at the screening of The Last Five Years was even more fun due to the 12 year old girl sitting in front of us with her mom. She wanted to scream "I love you Anna!" and I did everything I could to help that little girl enjoy her moment with Hollywood in Toronto.

And I will never forget that year Martin Sheen came and sat down beside me at the Wintergarden Theatre. He showed up a few minutes early (for the after screening Q&A), leaned in to see where they were in the film and decided to watch the end of the film in the audience...next to me!!! Needless to say, I had a very hard time concentrating... But the film is gorgeous, it is called The Way, and they're actually screening it at movie night at my aunt's church in Stouffville next weekend!

It's day 9 of TIFF and tomorrow, on closing day I see two more.

Here's the run down so far:

1. The Last Five Years - musical with Anna Kendrick based on off-Broadway play. MUSIC is incredible

2. The Good Lie - moving Hollywood film on the experience of Sudanese refugees

3. This is my Land - Israeli doc on what Israeli and Palestinian children are taught about their history and politics 

4. Girlhood - plight of African immigrant girls in banlieux of Paris

5. Impunity - South African gratuitous nudity and extreme violence, then again, these things are still happening today in South Africa.

6. Aire Libre - acting was incredible...story was...difficult to sit through - Argentinian couple breaking up 

Last Post about Africa...for now...Johannesburg!

View of Johannesburg from the Apartheid Museum

On our way home we had an eight hour layover in Johannesburg. I could not fathom sitting around the airport for that long…there’s only so much shopping (gasp) and eating (double gasp) I could do!

I did some research (of course) and decided a MUST SEE for me would be the Apartheid Museum…but I had to act fast!

Soccer City - one of the locations for the 2010 World Cup

Our flight was to land at 2pm. The museum was only open until 5pm. Between getting through immigration and finding the train to take me into town, there was no time to lose!

Of course things never turn up as they are planned. Before I knew it, it was 3:30pm. I found the (Gau)train and the next one didn’t leave for Sandton for another half an hour! Not acceptable.

 

So long story short – I found myself getting into a car with a guy named Thabiso. He seemed like a nice enough guy…right? I see my “actuary” friends shaking their heads at me. Come on now, I was careful. I am always careful of the strangers I meet!

So Thabiso is driving me to the museum. We start chatting. I get him to tell me a little about himself. He is a South African through and through, born and bred in Soweto…The same Soweto that Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu called home?! Well that did it – Thabiso was now taking me to the museum, waiting for me then taking me on a visit to Soweto!

The Apartheid Museum was heavy. I’m not sure why I thought I could go to the museum then hang out in Mandela Square, shop and eat…The museum provided a lot of written and visual information – mini videos and lots of photos. It was a lot to absorb, but I’m glad I took the time. I would definitely recommend the museum to anyone who happens to find themself in Johannesburg.

After a whirlwind lesson in Apartheid – I jumped back into the car with Thabiso and we were off to Soweto. I’m not sure I had in my mind what it looked like, but the first thing I noticed was “family.” There were children all over the street, not because they were wandering around aimlessly, poor without shoes or whatever you see on tv. No. The kids were playing happily with their friends with no worry of strangers scooping them up – there was a strong sense of community, everyone looking out for each other.

Thabiso took me to see the Hector Pieterson museum…He was the first young child to be killed by police who exchanged gunfire with students during the student uprisings in Soweto It was June 16, 1976. Hector was only 13 years old. Today June 16 is National Youth Day in South Africa; a day to honour young people.

We then went down Vilakazi street til we reached the cross street Orlando. At 8115 Orland St West stands Nelson Mandela’s home. It is now a museum. Since I was after 5pm and it was closed, I didn’t get to go in, but I did get to see what the street and neighbourhood were like. There were lots of touristy little shops set up and down Vilakazi St but there were lots of locals out and about. In fact Thabiso’s Dad is one of the local shopkeepers!

Just down the street from the Mandela House, at the corner of Bacela St is Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s House. The family moved in in 1975. He does not currently live here but it is inhabited by members of his family. This makes Vilakazi street the only one in the world that was inhabited by two Nobel Laureates!

On our way back to the airport, Thabiso drove me through a bit of Jo’burg so I could see what it was like. Maybe it was the combination of the growing darkness and the unfamiliar and desolate areas, but it did seem a little scary. Actually, Thabiso rolled up my window because he said it wasn’t as safe in Jo’burg as it was in Soweto.

So there it is – short and sweet, four hours in Johannesburg. There’s still so much more to see and do – just another reason to return to South Africa!

Real World Gaborone - Episode 4

Outside of the government building where you
apply for passport

This is the true story of five strangers, picked to live in a house, work together and have their lives taped, to find out what happens when people stop being polite... and start getting real. This is The Real World, Gaborone.

“Sometimes you just have to come up with a list of what to do when the power goes out,” I say.

“Now you’re sounding like actuary Tina,” Jenny says.

“But my point is that we should be prepared…this power thing sounds like it’s going to be a long-term issue,” I explain.

“Ok, what should be on the list?”

“Read a book?” I say tentatively…

“Yeah – we need to be FAR less plugged in!” Jenny says.

And this is what it’s been like – Power and water are a serious issue these days in Botswana.

When we first arrived here, it was water.

We had 3 days a week where there was no water available during the day.

Now that it’s finally raining, the power is the issue.

The rain is hampering coal production in South Africa where Botswana imports 85% of their power.

Botswana is in the midst of building their own power station but has had issues with it.

They are trying to rectify the issue, obviously, but apparently it could mean that we are without power up to six hours a day, every day, until the end of April.

In Casa Maria that means, no water.

I think that’s what makes us most cranky.

That, and no internet.

The other night Tina and I sat in the car another half hour after we got home, just listening to the radio, trying to feel connected to the outside world after a full day without power.

Random Conversations with locals

Some of my friends have been asking what life is REALLY like here in Botswana.

The following are a few conversations with local Batswana.

Please note, I don't want to generalize that this is what it's like all over Botswana - 

These are simply short interactions with the Batswana we know.

**

A street musician in Main Mall

“I don’t know about women working.” Kopano says.

“What do you mean?” Jenny asks.

“Well…look at your shoes!” Kopano points to Jenny’s heels, “How are you supposed to carry food back to your home in those?”

*****

“Ummmm…I just got offered the tea lady’s baby,” I say as I walk into our office.

“What?” Tina asks.

“Yeah, I was talking to Belé and the coffee lady* and she showed me a picture of her 7 month old son and asked if I would take him home.”

“That is so weird,” Jenny says.

“Yeah, but maybe they think you would give him a better life.” Tina adds.

“He is kinda cute…” I say, “But Jenny, aren’t you the one who wanted to adopt a little African baby? Here’s your chance!”

*coffee lady – we have a woman in the office who brings us coffee, tea, and sometimes cookies each morning.

Belé is the “office boy” – less of a “boy”, more of a 40-something man, he runs errands for the directors, washes our car from time to time (with only a bucket of water in the office car park), and happens to like me J

*****

Perhaps the man who fixed my shoes?
Main Mall

This morning, we arrive to the office and pull in to the parking garage. We empty the contents of the truck and head to the elevator.

“Good morning Belé!” I say with a smile.

“Dumela Mma,” he returns as he takes my bags from me.

We exchange pleasantries when I show him the one plastic bag I’m carrying this morning.

“Belé, can you help me today?”

“Yes Mma.”

“I need my shoes re-soled and re-heeled.”

“No problem Mma. No problem,” Belé smiles, “I will take them for you today.”

It is as simple as that! I go about my day’s meetings and Belé takes my shoes to get fixed. Before lunch, they’re back in my hands and I’m only $8 lighter, and that includes a tip for Belé! Things like this could get me used to life in Africa…

****************

Jr. – a mid-20’s Toronto boy, born and bred. Accountant by trade. On this project to travel and try something different. Nurse/student girlfriend at home.

Trevor – an early 30’s guy from the Caribbean. Completed a number of these types of projects before in different countries. Single

Tina – a late 30’s/early 40’s Caribbean woman who has lived and worked with Trevor on projects in different countries. Single

Jenny – an early 30’s woman from Vancouver. Common-law Life partner at home.

And me. LuckyCdnGirl. Accustomed to travel but never been to Africa

Return to Tau

Panoramic View from the back deck of my hut

Early last week we were looking for a little getaway. Just some place to enjoy the outdoors and maybe see something new. After some consultation with (our new best friend, travel agent) Mandy, we decided we’d return to Madikwe in South Africa and stay again at Tau Lodge. Little did we know just how good a decision that was…

Chocolate lava cake (dessert on last day lunch)

As we pulled up to the Lodge midday on Saturday, our Game Driver Patrick (from two weeks ago) was there to greet us along with cold homemade lemonade and a great big smile. I think we actually “squealed” with delight knowing Patrick would once again be our game driver and take us on our safari adventures! Our room assignments are given to us and we headed to lunch.

Lunch at Tau is bountiful. The buffet greets us with numerous salads and hot dishes. I head for my favourites: chicken pie, spinach and beef salad and a smattering of fruit. Dessert, which must be noted, consisted of a chocolate caramel tarte, passionfruit panacotta and tiramisu. Every bite was heavenly.

Part of what is so incredible about Tau is their spa. Jackie and Evelyn are the sweetest and most talented aestheticians. As I did on our last visit, I opt for a hot stone massage. Evelyn whispers quietly to met\ to ensure I am comfortable. How could I not be? The hot stones are warm and so calming,  I fall into a short  nap…

Afternoon game drive immediately provides one lone and majestic elephant. I have to say, even though I’ve been on four game drives now, it is a new experience every time – even in the same reserve. I will never tire of seeing elephants or the baby lion cubs. Patrick never disappoints. He combines the intel provided by other game drivers (by radio) and tracks animal prints and poops on the roads. I love seeing Patrick slow the truck down, stare at the ground, reverse the vehicle and switch direction – when he does this, you know you’re about to be in for a treat!

For example, we spent a good twenty minutes Saturday afternoon, ohhh-ing and ahhhh-ing at two lion cubs. They were hidden under a cluster of tall bushes; adorable little cubs, probably only four weeks old. One looked at us curiously, while the other slept without notice of us. It was incredible to see…and from time to time, we realized that mama lion, might not be so far away, and that we should watch our backs!

Later that afternoon we came upon 9 female lions of different ages and sizes. Around the same

9 Female Lions

spot, we also spied two large ostriches in the distance…We followed for a while, watching the lions notice the ostriches and start to walk slowly in their direction. We thought, for a moment, that we might get to see a “kill”! Not this time… instead we continued to follow the lions, watching them walk, stop, lie in the tall grass and play with one another.

We had an amazing elephant encounter with the very large grey beast, who came right up beside our truck…we all held our breaths…some caught it on video, almost missing the event in “real life”. Saying it was amazing, does not seem to do the experience justice. But what more can I say? It was amazing…

My Outdoor Shower

While at the lodge, you worry for nothing. Nothing. This time my hut was closer to the watering hole and I spent some time sitting outside, listening to the sounds of birds, the soft trampling of the antelope and the splashes of the alligators. Each hut has a little soaker tub, complete with bath salts and an outdoor shower. Showering bathed in the light of a full moon and a sky full of stars is absolutely unreal. Similarly, showering in the sunshine, with a view of the watering hole is something I will not soon forget.

The lodge’s servers (David), staff (Tumi), front desk staff (Poppy & Rebone), bar man (“President”), spa staff (Evelyn & Jackie) and pastry chef (didn’t catch her name) are all amazing. Everyone remembered us from our previous visit (albeit it was only two weeks ago), and made us feel special.

One absolutely special treat. Rebone, who works at the front, told me she had a special gift for

Patrick gives us a lesson on animal tracks

me. I was told not to open it until we were out of the park. I didn’t open the package until back home in Gabs. It wasn’t from Tau Lodge. The present was from Patrick, our ranger (who is actually sub-contracted, we requested him on our bookings for this trip because we loved him so much two weeks ago). Patrick had given me a wood carving of a giraffe.

He remembered they were my favourite.

Absolute sweetness.

Every meal with a view of the Watering Hole

Relaxing on my deck...

a stop for coffee and rusks (kinda like biscottti)
on morning game drive

Safari Time! (Madikwe Reserve, South Africa)

Super Excited to be on Safari!!!

The LION KING! :)

Approaching Madikwe Game Reserve

UPDATE: Want to see more pix? Check out my Flipagram at Cherrie's Safari pix in 30 seconds! 

Have you ever been lucky enough to go on safari?

It is the most incredible experience!

Being upclose and personal with the animals – Totally indescribable…but I will try.

We stayed at Tau Lodge in the Madikwe Reserve in South Africa.

Madikwe is 75000 hectares big!

It's one of the largest game reserves in South Africa and they have both the "Big 5" and the "Magnificient 7".

The Big 5 are: the lion, rhino, leopard, elephant and buffalo... 

And the wild dog and cheetah and you've got the magnificent 7.

(We got to see the magnificent 7 minus the leopard...which apparently is the hardest to find.)

While at the lodge, our stay included two game drives daily. One early in the morning and one in the evening.

Each day worked like this:

5am - wake up call

5am-530am - tea/coffee/muffins

530- 9am - game drive

9am - breakfast

1pm - lunch

430pm - afternoon tea

5 - 8pm - game drive

8pm - dinner

They look like busy days - but you have the FULL day between game drives to go back to sleep, go to the spa, go to the pool...etc. 

Tau had amazing huts/chalets that we stayed in.

All of the "huts" backed a watering hole where animals come by to drink.

There were tons of waterbuck antelope and zebras that went by - but one of the afternoons I also saw three wort hogs! That was so cool!

I was eye to eye with these animals, probably about 20 ft apart…

The only thing that separates us is an electrified fence.

My amazing room...those steps lead to a hot tub!

While we were on game drive we had the same ranger every time. Ours was named Patrick and he was amazing. He was able to look in the road for paw/hoof marks and figure out where to go - he'd also look at the different "poop" in the road to see if it was 'fresh' and if we should follow it! Then when we found animals - Patrick would make sure we had optimal viewing. If there was another truck, he'd circle around the animals to get a better vantage point!

Some of my animal highlights...

 - The first time we saw lions - lying lazily under a tree...they totally didn't care we were there. Turns out, we found out later, that had just feasted on a kill earlier in the day.

•  The first and second time we saw giraffes. They were so tall and beautiful and elegant. The next time we saw giraffes, zebras came by and they all just "hung out" together.
•  Seeing the white rhinos! They were adolescent boys and literally walked in front of us while they were playing... it was crazy! 
•  The first time we saw mane lions! The lion king! There were two big guys... Again, they totally didn't care we were around. It was so strange!
•  The first time we saw elephants. They are so huge but so quiet. And one night we even came upon like 20 of them! They literally stood between us and the gate to our lodge.

 

One of five white Rhino's that walked past our truck

And in every case we also saw babies! We are in summer now so the baby animals we saw were all just born this past spring! I'd never seen soooo many cute baby elephants! It was pretty amazing.

The food…OMG the food was incredible at the lodge – and plentiful. I am certain that I gained 7 lbs over the weekend.

We also got to experience some local game – like ostrich carpaccio, grilled eland, impala pie! It was all delicious!

On each game drive we also stopped for refreshments, hard liquor, pop, juice and water along with dried nuts, fruit, jerky, meat pies and cookies. So as you can see, we were well nourished.

I dream of returning to this spa...

One other thing! Did I tell you about the spa??? Yup – Tau also had a full spa. On one occasion I enjoyed a hot stone massage and on the second a moisturizing and revitalizing facial.

So – Safari life…if you get the opportunity – do it!

It is incredible! :)

…Now…back to work! 

Patrick, our Game Driver, setting up our coffee and tea on a morning drive.

Me, thinking, "This is ABSOLUTELY insane! Those are zebras!"

Our Game Drive Truck

Sunset at Madikwe

Work Days...

Let me start with, we don’t leave the house until around 0800 to go to the office…which is heaven compared to 0530 wake ups at home! It’s like the weekend every day! :)

The Puma Building on Botswana Road, (where we work)

We work in medium sized building in downtown Gaborone.

It’s right across the street from “Main Mall” where you can find lots of local delights at lunch time, a hardware store (for our never ending need of adaptor plugs), the grocery store (for our chocolate needs), etc.  Have you read the novel, The No.1Ladies Detective Agency? The tea shop the main character frequents is also located in Main Mall.

A square in Main Mall

I must admit, I’ve yet to try real local delights at lunch. In fact those who know me will be surprised to hear that I’ve brought my lunch to work EVERY day this week! Truly it’s because I’ve been bringing dinner leftovers (that one of my housemates has cooked)!

But next week I’ve got three places lined up to try –

Pie City – which sells meat patty type pies in many different varieties

Chesa Nayama – a chicken and chips like fast food place

Melodie’s – a place for curry chicken and fun local sides, including one that looks just like mac and cheese but isn’t...

And…Much to everyone’s dismay – I will totally work my gastro system to be ready for local street food…

Now work…

Remember in biz school when they made us work in groups

And we hated it?

Especially when they picked groups for us?

This is LIFE

Our shady grouping of adapters and plugs

And this is definitely life in Botswana.

With every team there are regular challenges and as all my biz school friends know, the regular progression of a team.

And on this project we have four workstreams, therefore, four teams, not to mention there are three houses so three “other” teams. And of course there’s the overall team dynamics!

That’s a lot of “forming, storming, norming, performing” (a la Bruce Tuckman).

But after one week – we’re doing well.

First deliverables are being sent to the client and we’re good!

Tomorrow we’re all headed off to South Africa for our first Safari.

Interested in seeing where we’re staying?

Check out Tau Game Lodge!

Have a great weekend friends!

Botswana's 1Gov project...the one we're working on!