Send off Catherine

IDF has signed a five years partnership with VSO following two years of memorandum of understanding. Many volunteers have been sent to IDF by VSO namely, Michael Mbowa, Enid, Mark Hall, Patrick Odadi and most recently Catherine Shih. Each of them contributed in one way or the other to make IDF fulfill her mission. Of cause Catherine came last but has pushed IDF miles ahead to her vision. It is for her send off that this occasion has been organized. It took place on the 27th June 2011 at the IDF conference hall with the aim of appreciating her contributions towards the growth of the organization, sharing and wishing her all the best in her future endeavors.

Here are some highlights of the ceremony:

Welcome address by the President of the Board of Directors:

In his welcome address, the President of the BOD thanked all those who have sacrificed time and other aspects to be part of the ceremony. He recognized the presence of the SAARKI, the Divisional Delegate of MINDUH, the VSO Volunteer and other dignitaries before declaring the ceremony officially opened.women’s empowerment, participating in International Women’s Day is integral to spreading awareness about women’s rights. In this respect, IDF is always very active in this celebratory day.  In Cameroon, International Women’s Day is a day when women  do not have to work and can celebrate themselves through parades and public engagements. Special commemorative fabric is designed each year by the president’s wife and is worn by women all across Cameroon.

Presentation of Catherine Journey map in IDF by the Coordinator:

After greeting all present, the Coordinator did a power point presentation on the following headings; Background, Methodology, Catherine’s Journey map in IDF, Difficulties and Lessons Learnt. She presented on how Catherine finally came to IDF on a one year placement, talked on some of the things IDF has gained thanks to Catherine like the elaboration of project proposals, training of staff on how to prepare a letter of intent, improved information management, preparation and submission of small grant proposals to VSO, the construction of the website, building relationship between IDF and other organizations, assist IDF in communicating with other partners, etc.

The Coordinator also talked on the impact Catherine’s placement has had on the professional lives of the IDF team and the organization itself.

She concluded by Thanking God Almighty to have chosen Catherine to come at an appropriate time, to VSO and Aisatou Ngong to have put Catherine at our disposal, and to Catherine to have accepted to leave the Far North Region of  Cameroon to work with IDF. She prays the Almighty should continue to guide and bless her abundantly.

Word of appreciation by the president

Dressed in an all African outfit , the President ushered the VSO Volunteer into the ceremony hall where she was presented with various certificates such as “Certificate of Excellence and an award of honor”. Before presenting her with the certificates, the President appreciated her for all what she has done during her stay in IDF and encouraged her to continue bringing impact to people’s lives.