Tapping into my South Asian ancestry as a Volunteer in Nepal
प्रकाशित मिति : माघ १९, २०७७ सोमबार
– Shruti Patrachari
Peace Corps Nepal was specifically of interest to me because of its rich culture. Little did I know that I would also develop a deeper understanding of my own South Indian identity. Ultimately, I was able to reconnect with my roots and also experience the uniqueness of Nepalese culture.
Prior to joining the Peace Corps, I was an intern at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Working in a large organization, I felt a bit distant from the people affected by its work. Peace Corps seemed like an opportunity to channel my passion into tangible change at the local level.
My family was happy when I received an invitation to join the Peace Corps, but became concerned when they realized I would be relocating to Nepal for two years. Mostly they just didn’t know what to expect. The toughest part was hearing my mom explain how hard she and my dad had worked to leave poor living conditions behind and give me a better life.
My parents had left India to come to the United States over 30 years ago in order to pursue educational opportunities. She felt that I was choosing to go back to the world they had left. Despite the uncertainty, over time they received more information and became more comfortable with the situation. I don’t think my parents ever fully got on board with my decision, but when they realized I was committed to joining the Peace Corps they tried to prepare me as best as they could. My mom got me more granola bars than I can remember!
My volunteer work in Nepal focused on improving nutrition in subsistence farming communities. Specifically, I provided training in enhanced agricultural practices, helped improve cookstoves, developed mushroom farming, and carried out hygiene and nutrition education.
One project focused on improved goat management and animal husbandry. I collaborated with the community to improve the quality and quantity of meat production in order to increase local production and stimulate the local economy. It was expected that an improved and increased protein source would lead to better nutritional outcomes in the community.
Another project to bolster food production was beekeeping. I worked with the community to improve beekeeping practices, reduce pests and disease, and distribute improved bee hives for increased crop production. Two tillers were also purchased to make vegetable gardening easier than with the traditional plow.
One of my proudest accomplishments in the Peace Corps was establishing a mill. I successfully applied for a grant from the Peace Corps and USAID, and with the funds worked with my community to purchase a milling machine. Previously, community members had to walk three kilometers while carrying heavy bags of grains to access a mill in another village. The community also agreed to house the mill with a low-income family who had recently lost their son to provide them with a supplemental income.
My South Asian ancestry gave me a unique experience in Nepal. Community members were often curious about my background, asking where I was from again and again. Community members also had higher expectations of me compared to other Volunteers. They often expected me to know their language and the culture because of my background.
I used this opportunity to challenge stereotypes and educate them about the diversity of America. Coming from a mixed South Asian and American background gave me a lot to share about both sides of my cultures. I learned that Nepal was similar to my own culture in a lot of ways (food, holidays, media), and often talked to people about the similarities and differences between our cultures.
In the previous Volunteer cohort, a South Asian Volunteer had encouraged me to form allyships with other Volunteers in my cohort as a way to give mutual support. At times, some Volunteers dismissed difficulties communicating, and not fitting in, but as time progressed, I was able to make some close friends and share my experiences with them.
Peace Corps service gave me the opportunity to explore and learn about myself. My conversations with others broke down cultural boundaries and built stronger connections. They were a reminder that everyone has a story, regardless of our differences. At times when I felt homesick or overwhelmed, an enthusiastic smile and caring comment from a community member made me feel like I belonged. Sharing helped me bridge relationships not only in Nepal, but with my family and friends back home. More and more, I’ve shed my protective shell and become less shy.
Integration may be tough, but a hello goes a long way. It’s easy to close up when you are on the receiving end of stares and questions. Allowing yourself to address people’s curiosity will help you get to know people. It all starts with a conversation.
The Peace Corps also allowed me to grow my professional relationships. In addition, gaining non-competitive eligibility (NCE) after completion of Peace Corps service helped me get my current job at United States Department of Agriculture.
If you have South Asian ancestry, know that your experience in the Peace Corps may be different from others in your cohort, but it’s also an opportunity to explore your identity and challenge stereotypes. At times, it will be challenging and frustrating but know you’re not alone in your experience. Embrace your identity and be kind to yourself!
(Shruti Patrachari served in the Peace Corps as a food security specialist in rural Nepal from 2018-2020.)