If you follow the blog, you may already know my story: I was a Kopernik fellow for three months in Timor-Leste. A fellow works in the field with Kopernik’s partner NGOs to assist with implementing and assessing the distribution of technology. It is a great opportunity to develop skills learned in the classroom or still new from the workforce. Working with Kopernik you get the chance to see firsthand the impact your efforts have on real lives.
The entrance of Kopernik’s office
In Timor-Leste, I measured the impact that the distribution of 200 solar lights had on the residents of the village of Biqueli on Atauro Island. All the information obtained through the Rapid Impact Assessment I conducted will be explained in a final report to be released soon. However, I can report that access to a clean, sustainable and affordable source of light did leave them demanding more. To complete the impact assessment, I left Atauro to join Kopernik’s team in Bali for two weeks. Writing the report and presenting my findings to its team was a unique and great experience. I wanted to use this blog to share what a day is like in the office.
Kopernik’s team based in Ubud
Kopernik’s headquarters is based in Ubud, a lovely village in Bali known as the arts and culture center of the island. The office is located in a house that exudes a Balinese spirit which helps you work peacefully. The working area has three tables in a semi-open space, where everybody can develop his or her daily tasks comfortably. What’s great about the open space is that the Kopernik staff tries to help you (the “foreigner”) in any way you may need; so it is a nice working atmosphere. Don’t be fooled by the relaxed atmosphere, you still have to work 9 till 5 and, like everywhere else, some days are more stressing than other –no matter how nice the office is! You may think that I am trying to paint you some happy picture, but no! I’m just letting you know the work environment in the office is great. The whole experience working with Kopernik, both in the field and in the office, is really rewarding. My time here is over, so I encourage you to join the fellowship program and make me jealous. Go ahead. Become a Kopernik Fellow. Make my day.
Photos by Olga Permanyer.
