Arianna Rondos
IOCC-Jerusalem

Jerusalem/West Bank: My two months of living and working in Jerusalem are nearing an end and I have accumulated a myriad of unparalleled experiences, all of which shall remain an integral part of what I feel has been a deeply challenging and educational summer.

Upon arrival at the IOCC/Jerusalem office, I was immediately involved in a number of aspects of a Non-governmental organization’s (NGO) activities. Collection and storage of donations, project visits within the field, reports verifying such activities, and the day to day workings of an office with the full responsibility of so many communities’ livelihoods, were part of my daily routine.

Reflecting on my internship experience, I am struck by my impressions on project implementations and successes, particularly within such a strict cultural framework. As experienced in Jenin, as well as in Nablus, the classes for women's health have allowed for a level of honesty and discussion on subjects that have, until now, been taboo in a society where women are expected to remain within the house.

Along with the visits to project sites, I equally enjoyed the experience of attending inaugurations and graduations of the completed project activities. These events best articulated the great many levels of involvement necessary in accomplishing a project. As I wrote about in the case of the inauguration of the IT and Computer Center at At-Tayba in the Ramallah Governate, " it was an expression of cultural heritage, traditions of both dance and dress, as well as a celebration and example of the activities that have been brought to the community through the creation of the center." These 'expressions' I refer to led me to conclude that, the pride communicated through these children served as a clear indicator that the activities provided through the center, funded by IOCC, have helped to develop and enhance a keenly growing community.

The influence on those in the communities, particularly women, who have taken part in the activities such as health education classes and computer skills programs, will, I feel, prove to be the strongest and most significant in subsequent years. As stated on an IOCC poster, "Sometimes knowledge is the best way to prevent exploitation." Knowledge, and access to it, is the most empowering and beneficial tool that can be offered a society. Thus, IOCC's projects which target such matters allow for development, in its truest form, to be both applied and realized.

Coupled with my experiences at IOCC was my day to day life while living in the Old City. Encompassing the religions, traditions, and politics of a divided city, the Old City is a complete enigma. Once beyond the walls though, I was immediately struck by the juxtaposed worlds that make up the vastly different East and West Jerusalem. The cultural taboos change, the dress code differs, and, most obviously, the language is completely different. Therefore, it does not surprise me anymore when I hear people describe Jerusalem as “the strangest place I have ever been”.

Whether NGO Development will be the future career path I follow after University, I cannot be sure. What I can be sure to have gained through it is a greater understanding of the intricacies it involves, the difficulties that can be faced, and the reward of its successful implementation.

— Arianna
IOCC Jerusalem