Messages From Odette Maharaj      

My name is Odette Maharaj; I am currently the Executive Director of a
non-profit agency located in Toronto Canada that provides support services
to the elderly and disabled adults. 

I came to Kobe Japan in November, 2006; my husband arrived in July, 2006
and is the Upper School Principal of Marist Brothers International School.

In early January 2007, I was fortunate to be invited to tag along with a group
of Japanese volunteers to visit the Thai Village Children’s Project and meet with some of the schools, principals, teachers and especially the students that are sponsored. 

We arrived in Bangkok in the early evening and was met by Jeannie, our host and project leader.  After spending the night, we headed for the airport to pick up the rest of our group.  That was the start of our great journey north of Bangkok. 

We spend most of our days visiting various schools in and around Buri Ram, Surin and Loei areas.  
At every school we were warmly welcomed by the students, teachers and principals. 

I was fascinated by the politeness of the students regardless of their age. They bowed and put their hands
together to greet us and did not hesitate to smile for our cameras.  We took many pictures of the children!
Some of my most memorable moments include; the friendliness of the people; the organized ceremonies
for the students receiving scholarships; the New Year greetings and gestures; the dance performances by
the students dressed in traditional costumes; the appreciation from the students for their scholarships and
gifts; the excellent lunches prepared by the schools; the attentiveness of the students to their duties and responsibilities such as; the caring for animals and the tending to the crops as part of their learning experience
and of course, the great company and the excellent weather!

Perhaps the most significant aspects of our trip were the needs of the schools for funds for such basic things
like; repairing the floor of classrooms; adding or upgrading washroom facilities; building canteens for student
usage; renovating libraries and computer rooms, and repairing ceilings of classrooms. Many students tried to
speak English to us, mainly repeating what we said to them; ‘hello’ ‘good morning’ ‘how are you’ etc. 
We gave out clothing, stuff toys, coloured pencils; and books for the younger children which we brought along
with us from Japan.  We also gave out treats to the children in celebration of the New Year.    

 I will always remember this special trip.  I admire my fellow Japanese volunteers some of whom have
being making this annual trek to Thailand for many years with such dedication. Special thanks to Jeannie for
organizing accommodations and meals for us, and for making our trip a great success!　　　

Odette Maharaj