Dear Preda,
I want to thank the staff for being so welcoming and allowing me to be a part of their beautiful work. While in the Philippines, I was able to be immersed into many Fair Trade projects that I would not have been able to do in the States. I thank you for your kindness, patience, and the good work that you are doing.
Looking back, this summer at Preda ProFair Trade was a very enlightening experience, providing me with firsthand third world experience. This internship was extremely educational in its grassroots immersion into Fair Trade. I was able to take part in many incredible Fair Trade activities, such as the harvesting and purchasing of mangoes for Fair Trade premium prices, the delivery and installation of water pumps for Fair Trade villages, delivery of school supplies to the children of Fair Trade farmers, and the delivery of coconut and coffee seedlings for future Fair Trade products. My overall understanding of the Fair Trade and Organic movements has been sharpened through my observations, seminars I attended, and interviews I conducted.
Overall, regardless of any cultural hurdles, I was introduced to the entire supply chain of the Fair Trade and Organic movements, from farmer to consumer. My adventure in the Philippines has provided me with concrete Fair Trade experiences on a grassroots level, giving me the ability to be a part of the deep partnerships that Fair Trade creates. My passion for Fair Trade has even been heightened through this internship; I cannot wait to return to the states and utilize what I have learned towards the benefit and growth of the Fair Trade and Organic movements.
Thanks for a great summer!
Sen
