I learned a lot during my time in Ethiopia a few weeks ago, but by far the most valuable thing I learned was that circumstance does not define happiness. So many times we go into developing countries trying to “fix” things {and people!} when it should be the opposite. They fix us. I wrote a bunch about that here. Today I am excited to announce the launch of The Mocha Club: I Need Africa (INA 2.0).
The Mocha Club has launched INA 2.0 to continue to challenge the perception that Africa needs only our pity and charity, and instead seek to reveal the truth that its people have much to offer. When you join the Mocha Club, you can decide which projects you want to support. Naturally, we support Economic Freedom {Women at Risk} because after visiting and doing life with the women there it’s become very personal for me. I’ve danced and sang with these women, hugged these women and played with their kids. They are some of the most joyful people I have ever met in my life. I’ve also driven the streets of Addis Ababa late at night and seen prostitutes on the corners — many looked to be just teenagers. It broke my heart.
When you join The Mocha Club now you get either a free fashionABLE INA scarf or cute pocket tee for free. FREE.
You can get involved for less than $10 a month. Literally, the price of a couple of those fancy coffee drinks we all love. So, watch the video clip above and get involved. It’s my sincere hope that the online community can step up and become a generous community of givers.
Michelle @ A Healthy Mrs
September 3, 2013 at 4:11 amSounds like an amazing project — thanks for sharing!
Mish @ EatingJourney
September 3, 2013 at 4:14 amIt’s a great thing that their doing. No organisation is perfect, and working within countries and governments and infrastructures that are foreign…can be difficult at the best of time.
One thing that I’m finding desperately ironic is that for the MC and for Fashionable (noonday from what I can tell don’t use stacks of models)..all of the models are white women or men. Where is the colour? diversity? Maybe I’m just being too PC…but I just find it ironic. I’d expect such marketing from major stores, but for companies which are serving within and trying to reach out with cultural goods..the marketing of them dumbfounds me.
I’m NOT having a go at you Jenna..it’s just a larger discussion which I know you’re close with the organizations..and perhaps is being addressed. I’m so happy that you’ve had the chance to go along on these types of trips. They’re life changers…keep up the good work!
Lauren @ The Highlands Life
September 3, 2013 at 4:32 amThanks for sharing Jenna. We do need Africa.
Madison
September 3, 2013 at 4:36 amThis is an awesome cause and project! Please keep sharing!
Molly@RDexposed
September 3, 2013 at 5:23 amI like how you are using your blog as a platform. Good for you! 🙂
Alison @ Daily Moves and Grooves
September 3, 2013 at 6:59 amLove this. So moving and thought-provoking!
Liz @ Tip Top Shape
September 3, 2013 at 7:24 amSuch a wonderful project. I will definitely be checking in. Btw – I thought the part here about us getting over the idea that they need help but instead recognize how they can help us was beautiful!
Alysa (InspiredRD)
September 3, 2013 at 7:37 amI love this, and you are so right. We need Africa way more than Africa needs us. Thanks for all you’re doing.
Hannah@TalesFromTheLastFrontier
September 3, 2013 at 7:57 amLoved this post! I am a fairly new reader to your blog but I stumbled upon it when your first post about the Africa-adventure was written. Your feelings about the place seem very similar to how I felt when I visited villages in rural Alaska. It ended up inspiring me to move to the great 49th state! I love hearing about others incredible experiences and the knowledge and happiness they get from visiting/learning about/living in these unique (and amazing) places. Thanks for sharing 🙂
Caroline L.
September 3, 2013 at 9:02 amThis truly sounds like an amazing project, and I am excited to research/learn more about it, and then hopefully join! 🙂
Amanda @ Once Upon a Recipe
September 4, 2013 at 12:39 pmThis project is so inspiring, Jenna. Thank you for sharing. I am going to join the Mocha Club and tell all of my friends about it!
Fascinating Friday Links #3 | Daily Moves and Grooves
September 6, 2013 at 4:21 am[…] need Africa more than they need us. Wonderful perspective.] I Need Africa 2.0 via Eat, Live […]