In honor of Global Brigades Month, we are bringing you a new student highlight every week. These student volunteers were nominated by our Advising Team for their dedication to GB and for going above and beyond in planning and participating on Brigades.
Who: Daniela Fernandez
School: Mount Allison University, in New Brunswick, Canada
Brigade: Public Health Brigades
Nominated by: Alexandra Bornhoft, Public Health Brigades Program Advisor: Through her leadership role with PHB at MTA, it is apparent that Daniela sees the mission and vision of not only our program, but the needs of the community as well. She is constantly thinking of innovative ways for students to get involved and be active, and has helped make the group more than just a brigade, but a strong sustainable development chapter.
We asked Daniela: What was your most memorable Brigade experience and why? How has your Brigade experience impacted your life back home and on campus, or future career and education plans?
In terms of specifics, some of my favourite memories include the group reflections back at the compound after a day of construction, because they allow us all to reflect critically upon the work that we carry out, and the causes and implications of the social situation of many of the families we’ve met along the way. Times like these are the ones that allow us all, regardless of our background and experience, to come together to understand our circumstances and work to change stigmas and inequalities. My education in geography and environmental studies, has definitely allowed me to look at this experience more critically, and to understand the impacts of my involvement in a more meaningful way. After graduating this year, I hope to pursue an internship with Global Brigades in order to gain field experience with an NGO that is close to my heart, and in a country that makes me feel like I’m at home, every time.
