(Painting with the girls)

Establishing relationships is a key aspect in appropriate technology. It is important to understand the people with whom you want to implement the technology and to gain their trust beforehand. This was an especially important concept for us to keep in mind when doing this project.

When we first arrived, the nuns informed us that the girls came from unfortunate family situations, and they have trust issues. Because of this, the girls were somewhat unpredictable in their actions. We understood that it was essential to establish friendships, so that we would gain their trust and hold their interests. Luckily, the girls were accepting of our ideas, and patient with the language barrier. They were excited about having their own garden and were enthusiastic throughout the process. Although the girls were excited about creating the garden, sometimes they were distant and unapproachable. When this occurred, we gave them space and let them sort out their feelings. This was an interesting experience for us and it was a challenge to understand the girls and work with them during these times.

Overall, developing these special bonds with the girls was a fulfilling and beautiful experience, and we hope that they benefited from our friendship as much as we benefited from theirs.