Getting To Know Your International Contacts

My conversation partner's name is Monique Cook. Monique is originally from Decatur, GA but recently decided to pursue her early childhood career in Abu Dhabi. Most of the people that are poor in Abu Dhabi are usually manual laborers from Asian countries, that leave their children in their home countries because they cannot afford international school fees in Abu Dhabi. In a country of glitz, lights, and wealth, it is hard to believe that there are people living in poverty in the UAE. The UAE'S major cities, Dubai and Abu Dhabi consists of wealthy locals, prospering expats, and a much lower class of second class citizens who usually derive from countries in south east Asia. These are the people who build the country, the many skyscrapers popping up everyday in the Dubai and Abu Dhabi skyline, the people servicing your 5 star stay, and ensuring that tourism is enjoyable.

Advocacy and change will only occur on a global level after we implement policy, support, assistance and aid on a more local level, within our communities. For instance, as an early childhood professional, I plan to use my knowledge and voice to assist programs and organizations to raise awareness around the issues of poverty and homelessness in Atlanta, especially within low-income African American communities. In the metro Atlanta (Fulton county area) there tend to consist of higher poverty rates and unequal opportunity. As a professional who genuinely cares for children’s overall well being, mental health and futures, I plan to be a voice on their behalf.