At the beginning of May 2014, JCI Port Louis PAP team launched the wonderful initiative of offering free IT courses to the inhabitants of Bois Marchand. I am lucky to be able to serve as an instructor on this project. The courses are held each Saturday from 10.30 am to noon at St Famille School in Bois Marchand. JCI Port Louis member Fabrice Malié who is also an instructor and I teach the basic IT skills required to use a computer. Although, most of our students are housewives, we also count two high schools teenagers among us.

Was it always easy? Of course not! The toughest part was waking up early on Saturday mornings and forsaking my Saturday shopping spree. Fortunately, I found an alternative: hit the stores in Port Louis before returning home from Bois Marchand. On a more serious note, conducting the classes was a bit hard at the beginning as both Fabrice and I had never taught IT before. Moreover, some of the students already had some knowledge of computers whereas others did not even know how to use a mouse. Initially, we had some difficulties to cope with this situation. However, with our spirit, determination and teamwork, we have been able to find a suitable approach so that all the students can benefit as much as possible from the IT courses.

The primary reason why I joined JCI was because I wanted to make a real difference in the community.  At JCI Curepipe we firmly believe in collaborative actions to create sustainable impact in the community.This project is giving me the opportunity to do so. I am able to share my knowledge, experience and skills with those who need it. I am glad to be able to represent JCI Curepipe on this project and contribute my share to bring positive change both in our local organisation and in the community.

I encourage other JCI members to join us at Bois Marchand. The smiles on the students’ faces at the end of each class give me a sense of accomplishment that motivates me to come back again the following week.

Together for a greater impact.

Viloshna Sonoo – JCI Curepipe Member

JCI Curepipe 30th Anniversary – Learn More, Act More, Become More