DEGRASSI IN HAITI: MELINDA SHANKAR’S STORY
Holly J., Fiona, The Bhandaris, Eli, Clare and all the rest of the Degrassi students have ditched their uniforms, packed their bags, and left their drama in the halls of Degrassi to make new halls for kids in Haiti.
Check out exclusive content from Degrassi in Haiti that you won’t find anywhere else!
Don’t miss Degrassi In Haiti as part of MuchMusic’s Holiday Wrap, airing December 30th at 6PM ET exclusively on MuchMusic!
The cast of Degrassi is building a brand new school in Haiti and we’ve got it all documented right here on MuchMusic! Aptly named Degrassi In Haiti, the special follows all your favourite Degrassi actors as they encounter the heat, sweat, tears, fears and unforgettable experiences while building something truly special for kids less fortunate.
And there’s more…
They wanted to let you know what that experience meant for them. Stuff you won’t find in the special! We asked five fun (and poignant!) questions about the best moments of the trip. Find out was Melinda Shankar has to say about her experience in Haiti!
1. What is one essential item you packed for your trip?
BUG ZAPPERS of every kind (machines, patches, sprays, lotions, swatters, candles, nets, etc.).
2. What is one thing you learned about another cast member?
Daniel Kelly and Luke Bilyk (they were a team) should never host summer camps. Not only were they trying to make jokes in English to children who spoke Creole, but they kept losing track of them. I had to pick up for their slack and facilitate my own camp at the same time! It was, however, the most entertaining thing to watch them explain football in English and then wonder why no one understood the rules.
3. Who is the best travel partner?
Spencer Van Wyck and I had seats booked together on every flight. We had the most fun failing at crossword puzzles, watching hilarious movies and making videos. He also makes for an extremely comfy pillow.
4. What was your most important moment on the trip?
For me the most important moment was when a big realization sank in. Although these children had next to nothing, they always had a smile plastered on their faces. They knew we were there to help and work on things together and they stuck by our sides from the moment we got there until the second we left. Even the smallest of kids did their share of work and felt like part of the family. They worked alongside us as opposed to having us take over and do it for them.
I quickly learned that even though they are not given the same opportunities as North American children, their values and family structure has not been sacrificed. They were itching to help and learn. For me, that was when it clicked that coming into the country and “fixing” problems helps temporarily, if that. Teaching the skills needed to help the communities is what will help improve the bigger picture in the end.
5. How do you describe Haiti and your trip to friends?
I’d describe Haiti as a beautiful, warm country and not just the temperature. The people are loving and friendly and welcomed us with open arms. However, the media does not do justice to the amazing country that Haiti is. I can’t wait for the day that I get to go back.
Check out a bonus clip of Melinda ‘helping’ Ray paint the school the cast built!
(Source: fyeahmindyshankar, via lindaschuylers)
(via littlebhandari)
(Source: numberoneneutronbomb)
