Embracing Kigali: Finding Home and Building Relationships Through Tennis
The Tennis Club: A Social Haven in Kigali
This week marked the end of my current host family contract, necessitating a search for new accommodations in Kigali. Initially, my arrival here was on a month-long contract, intended to give me time to find long-term housing through local connections. A key component of my social life in Kigali has been the local tennis club, which has provided a rich avenue for forming friendships and networks. From the gardeners to the trainers and local tennis enthusiasts, I've found camaraderie within this community.
Recently, I had the privilege of being invited to spend time with the local players in their designated lounge, an invitation that has led to not only engaging doubles games but also an unexpected offer for nearby housing. However, I ultimately opted for the studio accommodations provided by the tennis club. The convenience of proximity to work, combined with the access to the club's amenities, made it an appealing choice.
The daily interaction with the local players has enriched my social life immensely. When abroad, I believe in immersing myself within the local culture rather than solely seeking connections with fellow Westerners. This approach is akin to my time studying in Hong Kong, where sports became a bridge to forming relationships across all ages. Nightly basketball games there fostered friendships with individuals aged from 8 to 60, and similarly, my daily tennis games in Kigali have led to meaningful connections that offer rich insights into Rwanda and other Eastern African countries.
On the professional front, I am currently exploring potential funding sources that extend beyond the local sphere. My work in the coming days involves revising strategic plans for our operations in Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. We are also preparing for another critical meeting ahead of the much-anticipated roundtable event. This gathering holds significant importance, serving as a platform for progress reporting and collaborative feedback amongst organizations striving to achieve the country's overarching goals.