Honorary AIESECer.

Irbid is well known for two things; university students and internet cafes. Soooo many cafes that apparently the city made the Guinness Book.

At one such cafe I had a very interesting conversation with a young woman. She embraces all that encompasses is the mission of AIESEC, but within her Islamic faith. Mainly leading by example and the idea of cultural exchange through personal experience. Honestly I was surprised to learn that she was not in the organization, ha.

She has the dream to go to USA, not only to teach Arabic but to help others understand her culture and religion. In return she hopes to experience American culture first-hand and learn knowledge of more advanced technology and medicine in order to bring it back to her own people here in Jordan.

So often in my studies in anthropology I learn about the "brain-drain" which has become an epidemic all across Africa. Those fortunate enough to have the opportunity to gain higher education, often seek advanced training in the "developed" world, leaving behind their native homeland, culture, and people. I'm not trying to say that an individual should not strive for excellence, but when the entire population of intellectuals immigrate, the country is left with many occupational absences. So it was inspiring to meet a youthful woman determined to return with this knowledge to better her own community.

Furthermore, she has made the choice to take ownership over her actions, because only by changing ones-self can you change the lives of others. She practices the ideals of 'practicing what you preach,' living sustainably, and acting as if we live in a class-less society, by means of treating all humans as equals. I hope to come across more people like her in my months to come.