Be a changemaker for the forgotten of Central Asia

'Teamwork makes the dream work!' Or at least that's what they say.

At Salem, we recognise that working in teams is not just a great idea that is worth putting effort into, but something that does not come naturally for many people here. The cultural and geo-political legacy of this country means that teamwork is yet to be seen as 'normal', or fully endorsed or encouraged by the education system.

We need to be constantly developing our skills, and good teamwork is an ongoing learning process. The Salem team has regular times of stepping away from the work to focus on our relationships together and ensure our team remains strong and effective.

We also want to pass our knowledge and experience on to others, and take the time to share the things we have learnt with others. 

This summer, we were able to host three different team-building events for organisations that we have connections with. One is a small charity that helps vulnerable women and victims of domestic violence; one is a small independent school that we have historic ties with; and one is another English Centre in the city - technically therefore a competitor, but where we know a number of the staff and share a similar desire for quality education.

Each team was treated to a challenging mix of physical tasks and discussion topics, helping them bond together as people and not just co-workers. The goal was definitely having fun away from their workplace, but beyond that to establish the kind of trust and mutual understanding that are essential for a team to function well even under pressure or in the midst of conflict. We also made space in the program to provide some material on the dynamics of teamwork for each group, building a foundation of understanding as well as experience.

Feedback from all three events was very positive, and we're excited to see the way in which simple principles can be effectively passed on to others in the city. Very gradually, the change we want to see is emerging!

Much like many places around the world, life is yet to return to normal at Salem after the effects of the pandemic on normal life. Large gatherings and parties are still banned, and that has meant that most of our social projects have been put on hold. Salem Youth cannot meet; we cannot invite groups to go through the AIDS X-perience; and the cafe has only recently been able to re-open.

It's been great to welcome back the World Without Limits social club to Salem just recently, with regulations now meaning that they can meet in limited form - for which they are very grateful. But the normal annual season of New Year parties - for them, for various kids from disadvantaged families, and for our students - will certainly not be happening this year.

Meanwhile, a run of key dates have passed without the opportunity to hold any events to raise awareness of them. Instead, Salem staff put together various social media posts to ensure they were nonetheless noted in some way: 1st December which was the International Day of the Fight against HIV/AIDS; 3rd December which was the International Day for People with Disabilities; and 5th December which was the International Day of Volunteering.

We shall see what 2021 holds, but please be assured that Salem is continuing to engage with these social issues and to take action wherever possible - even if it is with a difference.

With thanks and best wishes from everyone at Salem Social Village

PS Thanks too for all those of you who got involved in Giving Tuesday to support Salem last week, what a great day of global fundraising!