What is your role in the Botswana Global Health Initiative? 

My role involves collaborating with rural communities and government partners to design and implement culturally appropriate, sustainable strategies.  

I also oversee research projects and mentor students participating in the BGHI program, ensuring they engage meaningfully with local partners.  

A core aspect of my work is guided by the principles of the SCOPE strategy, which emphasizes collaboration, capacity-building and the co-creation of solutions with in-country partners to achieve long-term impact.  

What’s it like introducing students to Botswana for the first time, and what do you enjoy about working with them?  

Introducing students to Botswana for the first time is a gratifying experience. Watching them engage with the culture, people and landscapes for the first time is like seeing it anew through their eyes.  

Students are struck by the warmth and hospitality they receive from local communities. I enjoy working with students and experiencing their curiosity, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives. Their questions and observations spark new ideas and approaches.  

Mentoring them as they navigate cultural differences and tackle real-world challenges is fulfilling. Witnessing their transformation and passion for making a difference is one of the most gratifying parts of my work in Botswana.  

What do you enjoy most while in Botswana?

I deeply appreciate the sense of community and connection in Botswana, mainly when working directly with rural communities. Engaging with local leaders and youth, learning from their perspectives, and witnessing their resilience and creativity in addressing health challenges is incredibly inspiring.

Botswana’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural landscapes make any time there incredibly fulfilling. These experiences reinforce the importance of collaborative efforts and cultural understanding in global health work.

Why should a student consider an international experience?  

An international experience like working in Botswana allows students to broaden their perspectives personally and professionally. It enables them to immerse themselves in different cultures, learn from diverse approaches to problem-solving, and develop cross-cultural communication skills.  

Students gain firsthand insights into the challenges and strengths of working in low-resource settings on community-based initiatives in other countries. These experiences foster adaptability, empathy and a deeper appreciation for global interconnectedness, which are invaluable in shaping their future careers and contributions to the world.   

What impact has this program had on students and the community?  

BGHI has had a profound impact on students and the community. It provides transformative learning experiences that deepen students' understanding of health. 

Students also learn how to problem-solve by working collaboratively and developing a critically crucial cultural humility skill.  

These skills shape their future careers. Several BGHI alums have pursued advanced studies or careers in public health, international development, community development, and related fields, often citing their time in Botswana as pivotal to their professional development.  

For the community, BGHI fosters partnerships that bring fresh ideas and energy to local initiatives. Collaborative projects, such as those addressing sexual and reproductive health, gender-based violence, inclusion of people with disabilities, and positive youth development, have introduced new resources and strategies while prioritizing community-driven solutions.  

By building capacity and promoting sustainability, BGHI strengthens existing efforts and creates lasting relationships between students, faculty and local partners.  

What are the biggest challenges you experience while working there?  

One of my biggest challenges has been navigating the logistical complexities of working in rural and remote areas. These include limited infrastructure, access to resources, and transportation. 

Additionally, ensuring that health initiatives are culturally appropriate and sustainable requires significant time spent on building trust and meaningful partnerships with local communities and government decision-makers.  

Language and cultural nuances can also pose challenges, but they are opportunities for growth, deeper understanding, and learning about our assumptions and biases.  

What have you been most surprised to learn?

I’ve been most surprised and inspired by the depth of resilience and resourcefulness within the communities in Botswana. Despite facing significant challenges, such as the HIV pandemic and limited access to health care and social services, many communities have developed innovative approaches to addressing their needs. I’ve learned how important it is to listen and adapt – solutions that work in one context may not translate to another. This has reinforced the importance of humility, flexibility and the co-creation of solutions in global health work.

What’s the best food you’ve eaten there?

Seswaa. It is a traditional dish made with beef or goat. The meat is boiled slowly in salted water and onions, then shredded and served with maize or sorghum.

What’s the most non-touristy thing you’ve gotten to do?

One of the coolest things a community member has shown me is how to create traditional baskets using local grasses. The process requires incredible skills and patience and reflects a deep understanding and connection with the natural environment and cultural heritage. I learned that patterns on the baskets reflect the unique histories of local communities and traditions.

What’s an important phrase you’ve learned in the local language?

“Dumela” for hello, “Ke a leboga” for thank you, and “Botsogo bo botlhokwa” — health is important.

Besides family, what do you most miss from home?

I most miss the familiarity and convenience of home – things like easy access to a wide variety of foods, reliable internet connectivity and the comfort of routine. However, these small absences make my work in Botswana even more enriching and meaningful.

What piece of advice would you give others who might travel there?

I would suggest that anyone who wants to travel to Botswana approach the experience with an open mind and a deep respect for local cultures and traditions. Spend time learning about the history and customs of the communities you interact with. This will help you understand the context and build stronger, more meaningful connections.

Be patient and adaptable; things may not always go according to plan, but flexibility and a positive attitude will help you make the most of your experience.

Also, Botswana has incredible natural beauty (Okavango Delta, wildlife, etc.). Immerse yourself in local food, art and community life to truly appreciate the richness of Botswana’s cultures.