Profile: Jessica Perini

Thanks for agreeing to be interviewed today Jess. First off, how would you describe yourself?

Obstinately optimistic.

That checks out!

And next, who are some of your role models, people you respect and learn from? And why?

• Jane Goodall, she was unapologetic. Just did her own thing despite what society said she should do.
• Marcia Langdon, for her untiring dedication to First Nations people.
• African woman Chido Govera, who freed herself from the bonds of early marriage and helped free so many more young children, using mushroom growing as an empowerment tool.

I generally don’t have that many role models because I feel the moment you put someone on a pedestal, you end up seeing all the faults.

What are 3 main projects or goals you’re focusing on at the moment?

• Getting Earth Restorer Hubs up and running.
• Getting ABCCI on secure ground, finishing the roofing and the toilets so the school can stay open.
• Spending more time making art, cyanotypes and poetry…

Can you tell me a little more about ABCCI?

I’ve been working with ABCCI Nakivale for about 3 years now. It’s a refugee-run school and community training center that focuses on creating a safe environment for children and adults to learn.

It’s in one of the most challenging places you can imagine. Based in Nakivale refugee Settlement in the south-west of Uganda, the camp’s ever-growing population struggles with every necessity: clean running water, food, education. My small band of friends and I through regular fundraising help keep the school and its 200 kids alive. It’s difficult, but also incredibly rewarding.

That’s amazing. What are 3 achievements you’re proud of, Jess?

• Getting buildings up at the school.
• Helping open up a humanitarian corridor for a sick child to escape a camp in Greece and go on to a healthy happy life in Spain.
• Being able to stay hopeful in an increasingly hostile world.

Impressive indeed.

That school is clearly a passion project for you! Tell us about your involvement with the buildings.

Recently, at the school, families and the community got together and made 7000 bricks out of the local clay to build more schoolrooms.

I was able to raise (with the help of friends) money to pay professional builders to build the buildings, and now we’re raising funds for the roof. One fifth of the way to our goal, we can now roof the second smaller building, with the larger one to go. So at least some of the kids can start school in their new building.

Exciting news! If people reading this want to help out with the school, how can they contribute?

Currently, the best way is probably to donate using this link:
https://givebutter.com/eric-hakizimana-abcci

We’re seeking a little extra help right now because it’s crucial we get the roofs on ahead of the rainy season. Donations are tax deductible in the US.

If people want to get in touch with you, can they?

Yes, for sure, through my website:

Contact

Thank you so much Jess for agreeing to be interviewed, and for all the differences you make in the world, every single day.

Following are some photos from ABCCI.