Utter mayhem! LOVE it.

I'm thrilled to inform you that it is not because of my lack of interesting occupation over the last month that I have not written a blog entry, but rather an overwhelming array of things to keep me busy. Just the way I like it!

On the "real" job front:

I have submitted applications to a select handful of firms including McKinsey, Monitor Group (both consulting firms) and Standard Bank. I have been through a test, one round of interviews and there is another one still to come (either this Friday or next) for Monitor Group (EXCITING!) and the other two are still getting back to me, or so they say.

Le français:

I have been doing an intensive French course at Alliance Française, which is conveniently just around the corner from chez moi! I am LOVING it. I am in acting heaven and we really are leaning fast and such practical stuff. Having done three years of French at school, I imagined I'd be a serious wizz kid, but I am in fact not at all. My only advantage is that I can read faster! (Oh, and I can mainly figure out the pronunciation!) Lots more to learn. Fabulous.

Phakamani Foundation:

Best for last for sure. South African microfinance that really is making a difference.

I was introduced to Mark Tucker by Amy, from the Social Entrepreneurship Centre at GIBS who said I "just had to meet him!" So I did. And, at Fournos in Dunkeld, one typically freezing Joburg morning, Mark and I met.

One of the things that he was looking at revising was the group training programme (for new clients) which we soon realised was something that played directly into all my tutoring experience, Bangladeshi Grameen microfinance exposure, Business Science degree and would be a fascinating challenge for me. A perfect solution to my lack of occupation and somewhere where I can really add value, or so I thought.

Mark and Shirley showed me not only White River, but all the sights of Mpumalanga too. It is such a beautiful part of the country! They took me to the Kruger, Pilgrim's Rest, a couple of incredible waterfalls, God's Window and welcomed me into their home like I was their favourite cousin. Never have I had the privilege of witnessing such incredible hospitality. Guess we all have a thing or two to learn!

I am writing from a fab coffee shop called Zanna's in White River. Stop by next time you're in Mpumalanga!

More to follow about Phakamani :)