WOW! I am amazed and incredibly grateful for everyone’s generosity!! Thank you! 

Or as it’s said in Chichewa - ZIKOMO!

I once had the opportunity to sit in the legendary, Mr. Lyons 7th grade Language Arts class and though it was difficult to keep my full attention upon Mr. Lyons while dodging spit wads flying between Walker and Jake, I did manage to learn, THE FOUR Ps

1. Preplanning

2. Prevents

3. Poor

4.Performance

I decided to apply the wisdom of, The Four Ps in preparation for volunteering with World Camp. The first step of my plan has been to study up on the basics of Chichewa.

Many languages are spoken in Malawi. English is used in government, business as well as the upper levels of school. At home and amongst friends a variety of Bantu languages are spoken, but the majority of Malawians speak Chichewa. Here are a few phrases to practice:

Keep in mind:
A- “ah” E- “eh” I-“ee” O-“oh” U-“oo”

Moni! Muli Bwanji?        Greetings! How are you?

If students in Malawi are anything like those in Bushwick, these should come in handy!

Khala chete        Keep quiet

Pitliliza kuchita bwino        Keep up the good work

…I haven’t been able to find a direct translation for “Good Readers, time to meet at the rug!” but I’ll let  all my NYC teacher friends know as soon as I do!!

I’ll leave you with a phrase I’m sure I’ll never hear:

Umayimba bwin        You sing well

Thank you again for all your support! Only 23 more days to prepare!

Tsalani Bwino!!        Stay well