Staff Story: Lessons in International Business from 12 Year Old Girls

Nikhil, Field Assistant, with Hinal and
friends from RBRC. 

One of my fondest memories of WC 2008 is the time I was translating with Natasha and Katey for an all girls class. We were heading into the sex education and empowerment curriculum portions on Day 2. There had never been a male translator in a female empowerment group before. We all were a little apprehensive about the potential awkwardness that might arise during the discussion because I was translating. It was a crucial first point of contact with 12 year old girls, who were on the cusp of womanhood. 

But the Coordinators, Katey and Price, decided that we should not change anything and move ahead with confidence. The girls had been so receptive to me throughout the camp. Honestly I was a little apprehensive myself, studying in an all boys school till high school. Both Katey and Natasha were awesome. We were very pleasantly surprised to find that, not only were we able to provide a lot of good information to the girls, but we were bombarded with questions and we had to actually disappoint some of the girls, as we could not answer all their questions because of lack of time.

The group was great and the girls bonded quickly. Their presentation to the community the next day even centered on being a strong system of support for one another. 

When I look back in retrospect I realize its not the language you speak or the color of your skin but a positive approach and body language that helps in building trust, be it personal of professional meetings. I try to still learn from the experience. Little did I know it would be so helpful in my international business studies and doing business, globally.

Nikhil, Natasha (volunteer), and Katy with empowerment group
at RBRC Girls Secondary School.

The girls felt completely comfortable and loved working
with Nikhil, WC Field Assistant. 

Coordinator Katy with girls at presentations.

Submitted by: Nikhil Agarwal, Field Assistant, India 2008

*Part II in our Staff series. Check back for more reflections and updates from our in-country staff! Email submissions to info@worldcampforkids.org or katy@worldcampforkids.org