Over the past several years CAMED has had a number of interns
working in Moldova and contributing with their skills and knowledge
to the mission of our organization. Some of them worked with us
for 2-3 months while others worked for a period exceeding a year.
We look forward to other interns and professionals joining us in
our work and ministry in Moldova.
Interns speak about their experiences in Moldova:
1. What was your overall experience?
Overall, my experience was outstanding. Until working with
CAMED, I could never have imagined the strong effect micro-finance
could have, even without thousands of clients. It was very
encouraging to see how Christ was glorified and dignity brought
through believers engaged in business. Whether they
used it as a platform for sharing their faith, providing for their
family, or creating jobs, in nearly every case, their communities
were enriched and strengthened. The way CAMED forms and maintains
relationships with clients all over Moldova is building a foundation
with the potential to transform the whole country in the coming
years.
2. How did this enriched/helped you?
I was able to get an up-close and practical viewpoint on entrepreneurship,
both for a developing country and for my own career. I
was able to see how to apply my faith practically in the workplace
and in business ownership, and to see this done at so many different
levels. Further, I received great insight into the challenges
of building a small organization into a stable, sustainable one.
3. Would you recommend others to join CAMED in this capacity?
I would definitely recommend CAMED to anyone looking for a challenge
and a hands-on experience in Business-as-Mission.
4. Anything special about Moldova
/its people/CAMED’s
work/your time here?
The Moldovan people are among the most hospitable people I have
met in the world. It is refreshing to work in Moldova because
everyone has a dream and a vision, and they are always active,
even if they do not have a clear path in front of them. And
the food is excellent!
This is one of my favorite pictures from
Moldova. It is
of Anastasia, the “Goat Lady” in Tintareni. She
represents so much of what we are trying to do in this country. With
very few resources and a little help from CAMED, she was able to
start a goat farm whereby she cares for the goats of many people
in her community who cannot do so.
She feeds them and takes
care of their health for a very small monthly fee.All the
people in the village know she is a believer, and respect her as
a businesswoman. In fact, she reports that the villagers
wait in line to use her services instead of her competitor’s,
because they know she is a Christian and runs an honest business. Just
a simple woman with a simple life, but spreads the message of Christ
in practical ways all over her community.