Expat Tales
The Age
Saturday December 8, 2007
Jane Gavel is making a difference in Peru.
IN 2003 with my Peruvian partner Selvy I launched Peru's Challenge, a not-for-profit organisation based in Cuzco. Since then we have built four schools and started to educate more than 1000 children living in extreme poverty.In 1998, I graduated from Canberra University with a double degree in marketing and advertising and later decided to travel the world. I planned to make my way to the UK where I had a working visa waiting, but when I saw the extreme poverty and lack of government support in Peru, I knew something needed to be done. I found the differences in the standard of living between my rural Australian upbringing and that of what the Peruvian children are experiencing difficult to swallow - 54% live below the extreme poverty line.The average monthly wage in Peru is $US300, with most expats earning an above-average wage. The cost of living is roughly one-third of that in Australia. Generally you can rent a very respectable apartment for between $US100 and $US200 a month - including water and electricity. The local currency is the nuevo sol, with an Australian dollar equating to two nuevo sol and 75 centimos. All goods and services are taxed at 19% and restaurants and hotels add a 10% service fee.English teaching jobs are available, especially in areas that rely on tourism such as Cuzco. Hence in the Pumamarca community where Peru's Challenge is currently working, many of the children aspire to learn English so they can get jobs in tourism.During my initial time in Cuzco in 2002, I started teaching English in a local school for adults while also starting up Peru's Challenge. Having never taught English before and being unable to speak a word of Spanish, the experience was challenging, but enjoyable. Peru's Challenge offers four, eight or 12-week volunteer programs for international travellers. This is often a great way for individuals to live like a local and get a taste of life in Peru. It includes volunteer work as well as tours including Machu Picchu and Spanish lessons. Volunteers teach sport, art, English and assist with community construction projects. The aim of Peru's Challenge is to build self-sufficient communities. In some cases our volunteers seek employment after their placement; often this is in bars or other hospitality roles. Gaining employment can be difficult for foreigners due to language barriers and Peru's economic situation.One cannot help admire the majesty of the Andes, the lush jungles and the peaceful coastline. These highlights provide for many adventures, from multiple day treks in the ever-changing Andes to surfing the world's longest left-hand break in Chicama. Peru presents a contrast of absolute beauty with extreme poverty.The people are passionate about their country and Inca heritage. They are very friendly and greet you in the streets Although Australia will always be home and I will return some time in the future I will never lose my ties with Peru.LINKperuschallenge.com
© 2007 The Age