Debra Stanislawski

Previous work/experience/studies:

International Relations and French; Pan African Association - mentor for Somalian refugees, PBI volunteer organizer, Columbia event, Chicago; College of William and Mary (French teacher's assistant).

2 years in Peace Corps - Cameroon; volunteer leader, creative consultant for a youth radio programme, primary school teacher trainer.

PBI location: Kathmandu, Nepal.

Groups accompanied: Advocacy Forum, Conflict Victims’ Committee, Lawyers’ Forum for Human Rights.

Why did you join PBI?

While I was in the Peace Corps in Cameroon, a friend working with VSO suggested the organization to me as one which would reflect my interests in human rights. I was impressed with the grassroots nature of the organization. I chose the Nepal project because, although I had French language skills, I did not have enough Spanish to go to Colombia, a region which I had become interested in after having been involved with Colombian activists in Chicago.

What were your concerns?

That I wouldn't know enough about the situation, that I'd make a wrong decision and endanger someone.