As my summer work term draws to a close, I reflect on my experience as Content Writer and what I have learned from being part of the Operation Eyesight team…
Coming from a background in political science, the term ‘development’ occupies much of the emerging research in the discipline. However, nothing compares to connecting with those who are part of this complex process and gaining access to their insight. I wanted to share a behind the scenes look at my work, and the team I have had the privilege of connecting with.
My first week, I was invited to virtually ‘meet’ Dr. Geoffrey Wiafe, an ophthalmologist in Ghana, and learn more about his work. He is tremendously dedicated to his community and tuned in to the challenges that Ghana faces in meeting its eye health needs. This meeting inspired my first published piece and was a great introduction to the work we do at Operation Eyesight.
I also had the opportunity to meet Chali Chisala Selisho, our Country Director in Zambia, as well as some of the new members of her team. Each has an impressive background in the development sector and is passionate about increasing access to eye health care and addressing local needs.
Candy Siadibbi, our Project Officer in Matero, Zambia, shared a story about a man who was unable to walk unassisted due to his visual impairment. However, after receiving sight-restoring surgery he was ecstatic to be able to walk again on his own. Candy could hardly put into words how amazing it felt to see the outcome of our work. One cannot help but be inspired by this memory and the passion she has for eye health.
I had the privilege of being part of the Marketing and Communications team. It was a pleasure to gain experience in a collaborative environment and work closely with my colleagues. Each person brings a unique skillset and sense of creativity to the team, and I am so pleased to have had the opportunity to learn and grow alongside them.
I am also glad to have had the chance to connect with the leadership team, whose openness and compassion are remarkable. It is refreshing to receive feedback from individuals who are invested in the progress of their staff and are deeply engaged in their work. Dialogue flourishes at all levels, encouraging staff to voice their perspectives and support one another.
This type of collaboration is at the heart of the work we do at Operation Eyesight. The opportunity to learn from one another is not taken for granted. I was invited to join multiple team-wide meetings during my time here, where a wealth of insight was shared and discussed. What impressed me most, though, was how tight knit our global community is. Strong relationships exist across all time zones and departments. This level of personal connection and compassion extends to all our project areas and helps to build community rapport and engagement.
I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to make new connections, collaborate with the team, and sharpen my writing and research skills. International development remains a keen interest of mine, and I look forward to seeing future projects and innovations that are made at Operation Eyesight.
