Here is a brief overview as to some of the things that have stuck with me after my first week working with Casa Alianza Nicaragua.
It is a humbling and inspiring experience working with a group of mothers and their children who are the victims of abuse and exploitation. At the same time, there is nothing more sickening when, after thinking it is really cute that a 5 year old girl knows how to dance regaetton, to find out that child is the victim of human trafficking. I was left with the harrowing question as to whether that child had been taught to dance for the most unspeakable of reasons
To see a 10 year old on the street, with glazed eyes, aged face and a body that he could just about manage haul about is an image I will never forgot
There is something phenomenal about being invited to take part in a dance class with women who are victims of horrific abuses. To have been allowed to enter their world and take part in their activities has meant a great deal to me
To hear a 14 year old boy talk about the future, aware that there might not be that much left of it for him, after his body has been destroyed by drug addiction and alcoholism is something a child should never have to go through.
In one week I have learnt a lot. This can only be a very small overview as to some of the things which have happened and which I have been part of. I hope to keep learning and keep doing all I can to support and help.
About Me
- Simon Walters
- My name is Simon Walters - I work for Casa Alianza Nicaragua. Casa Alianza Nicaragua is a non-profit NGO, working to protect, support and rehabilitate children living on streets, victims of abuse, violence, abandonment, commercial and sexual exploitation and human trafficking. I work as a specialist member of staff, coordinating healthy and sustainable activities for the kids in our protection, and on the international development side of things - working with all the Casa Alianza sites in Latin America. I hold a MA in International Law and Human Rights from the United Nations University for Peace, and a MA in History from the University of Edinburgh. I am very involved in the Model United Nations, and in 2009 served as the Founding Secretary General of Mostar International Model United Nations, in Bosnia and Herzegovina. I also have experience in English teaching, coaching public speaking and debating, acting and radio presenting.
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