Friends of South Africa Collaboration

Written by: Samantha Croffut and Alana McGinty

Friends of South Africa recently supported I Am, We Are (IAWA) for the fourth annual benefit reception at the Embassy of South Africa in Washington, DC. The benefit themed, “I Am A Masterpiece,” celebrated the masterpiece in the making and work of art that is each of us while benefiting I Am, We Are. Friends of South Africa members volunteered time and donated items for the benefit auction. Volunteers had a great time eating, dancing, singing, and most of all, supporting our fellow Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (RPCV), Meisha Robinson, and the inspiring work undertaken by IAWA. Friends of South Africa was thrilled to be invited to participate in this event to further our organization’s mission and values that support global connections.  

 “We always get excited to partner with IAWA because many of us have friends and host family members who are affected by the issues that IAWA aims to address - high unemployment, lack of opportunity, and lack of knowledge about opportunities. Friends of South Africa has partnered previously to support IAWA's film screenings. A number of us watched the documentary, and all of us left inspired. Meisha's experiences in South Africa have supported youth in comprehensive and vital ways - from letting individuals know and absorb that someone cares, to supporting entrepreneurship and the development of globally-minded citizens.  I was honored to support Meisha's work as a volunteer and as part of the Voices from Southern Africa (VUSA) choir at the benefit reception, and look forward to our continuing partnership!" - Samantha Croffut, Friends of South Africa Founder

The Peace Corps experience brings individuals together in a collective and lifelong commitment to the ideals of Peace Corps. The Friends of South Africa affiliate group mission is to promote a sense of community among South Africa Peace Corps Volunteers,  RPCVs, and other friends of South Africa; to support the interests of the South African people; and to educate the public about South Africa.   

"Peace Corps was a life-changing experience. It helped me to see that we are all part of a global community, and I am because you are." -Alana McGinty  

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