Ingrid gave us an overview of how and why the trust was formed. We learned a little about Foetal Alcohol Syndrome and the devastating affect it had, not only on the lives of individuals, but on the wider community. Ingrid explained that the POP (Path out of Poverty) scheme was borne out of a desire to break the poverty cycle, equipping young people with both the skills and confidence to play an active and valuable role in their communities. Some of the youth workers we met that morning were graduates of the system, adding resonance to Ingrid's message that change takes time, but can be achieved no matter the odds.
A founding principle on the trust is that of ARK; that we change the world with one Random Act of Kindness at a time. We were challenged to imagine how our world might look if we were all a little kinder, a little more considerate, a little more helpful.
Another key feature of life of the trust is music, and we were soon on our feet attempting to find some rhythm.
There is no shortage of fun on the trust, and Ryan introduced us to the shark attack game. Miss John was the first victim, singing 'Mi welais Jac y Do' as her forefeit. The peg game soon also got into full swing, causing all of us to eye each other with suspicion.
Next we headed for the climate change path, where we learnt how the trust seeks to minimise its impact on the environment. From recycling kitchen waste to create gas, to compost toilets, to solar panels and crop rotation, eco principles were clearly at heart of everyday life on the farm.
After a break for scones and coffee, it was time to get down to work. Half of the group stayed to make compost whilst the others headed down to the nursery to help feed the babies.
Having worked up an appetite, it was time for lunch before our first visit to the POP centers, and a chance to see the work of the trust in action.
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