Jambo! from Sarah, Philip, Colette, Leigh, Sam and Max as Team Kenya meet for the first time at the CWB training weekend.
We are Team Kenya and welcome to our shiny new blog! With only ten days to go before we fly out to Kenya to deliver a cricket development and HIV/AIDS awareness project, read on below to meet the team:
Colette Gooding – Project Leader
Nickname:
Gooders
Day job:
Administration Officer for the International Cricket Council.
How/why did you get involved with CWB?
I was first introduced to CWB while on a work placement with ICC Europe and thought it would be a nice thing to do after finishing University. Not being a cricketer or involved with cricket at all, the concept of cricket and HIV/AIDS awareness did puzzle me slightly. However, after an incredible trip in Kenya last year as part of a great team, I couldn’t leave it as a one-time thing. Therefore, here I am again and as Project Leader I can’t wait for another incredible two weeks in Kenya.
What are you most looking forward to in Kenya?
There are lots of things I am looking forward to, including working alongside a new team for the next few weeks. I am also looking forward to going back to Kerchio where last year we introduced kwik cricket into schools so I want to see the impact this has had over the last year. Finally, I am looking forward to working alongside the guys in Kenya including Nicholas and George.
Where can you be found when not working?
I would like to think you’d find me doing exercise, however I like to have a good laugh with friends over a couple of drinks and I love travelling and trying new activities.
Party trick:
I’d like to say my dance moves, I love to do the worm after a few too many.
Leigh Rees – Tutor
Nicknames:
Cricket: Pikey (its a long story based on Dad’s Army)
CWB: Papa bear, which I was christened by the guys last year.
Day job:
I’m a Transformation Manager with a high street Bank; basically involved with change programmes, although my career has been mostly as a Commercial Lender.
How/why did you get involved with CWB?
I had friends who had been, had always wanted to do it and then a school friend and cricketing mate of mine, a little younger than me, died suddenly which gave me a shock and the kick up the backside I needed. I like working for charitable causes when I can and look to help the smaller, less prominent ones.
What are you most looking forward to in Kenya?
Went last Spring and loved it. Enjoyed the company of just the best bunch of people I could have hoped for. Looking forward to doing the same again with another great team, seeing the kids again, and hooking back up with Nicholas, Daniel, George, Ice Man, Peter and David hopefully. All friends of mine.
Where can you be found when not working?
I’m normally either coaching, tutoring or doing something else in relation to the great game. My life has been, and is still, cricket and I have made so many friends through it. Can also be found socialising and enjoying life with my family, who are brilliant, and friends.
Party trick:
I don’t really have one. I’m a bit crap really!
Sarah Berman
Nicknames:
Bermanator, the more cryptic Gib (a comment on my barnacle-like batting) and Trix.
Day job:
Transport consultant – I forecast revenues and costs of transport businesses and advise on the commercial aspects of big transport transactions like rail refranchising and buying/selling airports. It’s more interesting than it sounds!
How/why did you get involved with CWB?
One of my best friends, Laura Daniels, has been on three CWB trips and raved… So thought it was my turn!
What are you most looking forward to in Kenya?
Meeting lots of local people and seeing a bit of a continent I’ve never visited
Where can you be found when not working?
In the summer, playing cricket for Catford Wanderers women, or watching England. Otherwise on my bike, or in a pub or restaurant with friends.
Party trick:
I’m going to have to think about that one...
Philip Gooding
Day job:
Support worker with disabled young people and children.
How/why did you get involved with CWB?
I got involved with CWB because my sister (Colette) spoke about the trip she went on last year and it got me enthused to go on it this year. After doing Camp America last year I really enjoyed working with young people and coaching therefore this seemed like an ideal opportunity to do some more travelling and get involved with another sport.
What are you most looking forward to in Kenya?
I’m really looking forward to working with the team over the next few weeks and coaching some cricket. I have never been to Africa so am also looking forward to visiting Kenya and seeing its wildlife.
Where can you be found when not working?
When I’m not working I like to go to the gym, going out with friends and enjoy long distance running.
Sam Rose
Nickname:
Rosie
Day job:
Cricket Development Officer
How/why did you get involved with CWB?
I heard of the charity through a friend and went on an amazing trip to Kenya 18 months ago! Can’t wait to head back out there!
What are you most looking forward to in Kenya?
Seeing how the country has developed in 18 months with regards to cricket and being able to coach more children and tutor more teachers to keep the legacy of cricket in Kenya going.
Where can you be found when not working?
Cinema, out for food or at the gym!
Party trick:
Flexible elbows (you have to see it to understand!!)
Max Winchester
Nicknames:
Winchy
Day job:
Currently enjoying a glorious seven months off between university and the real world in January when I will start a job as an Operations Consultant.
How/why did you get involved with CWB?
I always planned to spend some of my time off after university volunteering for a charitable cause, but first needed to find a charity I felt really passionate about. CWB ticked all the boxes, combining three fantastic health and development goals with the sport I love, all in a country I wanted to visit!
What are you most looking forward to in Kenya?
I have heard so much about the enthusiasm and energy of children in Kenya, so I can’t wait to experience it for myself and hopefully channel their excitement into a fun and constructive coaching session!
Where can you be found when not working?
Playing or watching sports. I am not really fussy which sport, but skiing, cricket, rugby, cycling and football are probably my top five at the moment.
Party trick:
Speed eating and drinking. It is a useful skill to have in pub boat races, but also earned me the prestigious trophy of ‘Cambridge Charity Speed Eating Champion 2012’.
So now that you have met the motley crew, stay tuned for more updates and stories as CWB’s Autumn trip to Kenya unfolds!