GSGC Communications Committee as Community

One is in the verdant Pacific Northwest. Two are in bustling cities in South Africa. One is in the high desert of the American Southwest. And one is in a Canadian skyscraper city on the north shore of Lake Ontario. 

While their locations and lifestyles vary, their intentions and dedication do not. 

“Over the past several months, I’ve watched with joy to see the Communications Committee coalesce as 

community,” said GSGC founder Priscilla Plummer.

“We at GSGC are all about community, and this group is a wonderful example of that. I get such inspiration from their energy, seeing their support of each other, their relationships with Mentors, and their commitment to curate and share the stories.”

Some of the committee members know one another, others have never met in person. Depending on the timing, topic or needed skills, two quieter committee members — Heather Patrick of Bainbridge Island, Wash. and Shawna Brechbill of Nevada City, Calif.— also lend their expertise. But given the urgency of the pandemic, the core five have been working to collect and distribute as much pertinent information as possible, as quickly and accurately as possible. 

Perhaps the process was accelerated by the pandemic, but the five Communications Committee members have become neighbors. They join forces to gather, synthesize, write, edit and distribute this monthly newsletter, post social media messages, and tackle other communications-related projects. 

It’s all orchestrated electronically, of course — SharePoint, Asana and WhatsApp calls and messages. The five meet twice a month via Skype, but they talk, write or message practically daily as information and photos come in, glitches arise, and ideas flow. 

Here’s what members say about the Communications Committee as community:

I do appreciate our differences and the multi skills that are brought to the table by a group of talented, thoughtful and kind people. Together we contribute to tell the GSGC story using our skills, passions and abilities — one no more important than the next. Everyone in this team counts. This is community across the globe, joined by purpose and the internet.

Having the opportunity to be part of a grouping of intelligent, compassionate and truly dedicated people, that is the GSGC Communications Committee, has been an enriching experience for me. Not only have I had the opportunity to contribute my skills and talents to a purpose aimed to benefit causes close to my heart — the lifting up and sustainability of communities in areas of critical biodiversity in Southern Africa — but it has also allowed me to form connections and bonds with people halfway around the world, people I’ve come to respect and enjoy. There is something within it all that helps to heighten a faith in humanity and our interconnectedness on this planet. Also, sometimes they laugh at my jokes, so that helps.

Every day, the words of American composer John Cage encourage me to “Begin Anywhere.” That is just what I did six months ago when I volunteered to join GSGC’s Communications Committee.

I now think of the committee as a giving circle unto itself which is intertwined with every other community belonging to the GSGC network. Like these others, it is a “a web of mutual interdependence.” The committee’s members are in three countries on two continents, but there is no distance between us when it comes to our deep commitment to the mission, model and approach of GSGC. 

It has been a gift to join forces with individuals who bring such diverse talents, skills, experience, interests and goodwill to their work as a specialized team. What a difference between GSGC and the traditional world of work.All are encouraged to generate ideas, share in their implementation, and provide constructive feedback. Numerous learning opportunities allow members to master new software and social media tools essential to continually improving the creative process. 

It has been a gift to belong to an international development organization that truly listens to, sees and respects those with whom it is partnering. Committee members know our collective efforts are contributing to the empowerment of each GSGC girl, boy and mentor.

The thousands of miles between us vanish when we all get on the phone. We first check in with one another – is everyone OK, does anyone have anything fun, new or exciting to share? We talk like friends do.

The conversation turns to the agenda and each person’s personality and skills shine through. I’ve come to know these people. One looks long-term. One is a natural teacher. Another is highly practical. We ask questions. Each gets the floor. We work through the sound delays, poor connections and accidentally talking over one another. A sense of humor is required, and we each come well-equipped. 

This community is one of hope and hard work, devoid of one-upmanship or ego. It is one of common purpose, dedication and willingness.It is one I value and enjoy. 

Members this side of the Atlantic are learning South Africa-isms. What a thrill to hear one of the nightly vuvuzela celebrations during lockdown – I was instantly transported. Members on the other continent are learning American-isms and the TV theme song for . 

Being part of GSGC’s communications team makes doing my small bit for the greater good something real. It connects me to the world, to good people in the world. 

As the Global Sojourns Giving Circle Communications Team, it is our job to communicate to the GSGC community how your donations are being used. Our job is to tell stories that inform us all about the realities in Southern Africa and share news about the great work being done internationally to keep us together and informed.

The team consists of talented writers, dedicated volunteers, creative thinkers, computer whizzes and visionaries, connected despite the distances. We have created a special community embracing time zones, cultural norms, missteps, strong personalities, challenging deadlines, bad computer connections and an overly enthusiastic desire to share many amazing stories.

I feel fortunate to be a part of a community that has the privilege of partnering with amazing people in Southern Africa and showcasing their stories as they set out to change the world. We celebrate with them, and we cry with them. We see the challenges of our GSGC family living through this pandemic, and we find comfort and reaffirm our connection in being a community, always there for one another.