SVG will always be a special place for Leigh

Leigh Tranchi is one of those fortunate people who has been able to find her niche in life. Tranchi, a Peace Corps Volunteer from Los Angeles, California, finds complete satisfaction in helping others.{{more}}

Tranchi has spent almost two years in St.Vincent and the Grenadines working in the Layou community. She shared with SEARCHLIGHT what motivates her.

“I want to think that I can be a helping hand. I mean, we come into this world and we try to find our purpose… and you know, even if I can’t help thousands of people, I can at least help one child to read. At the end of the day, that’s what motivates me to keep on doing it,” Tranchi said.

She has been involved with several activities at the primary school in Layou, including remedial reading, art classes and the 4H club. Tranchi also runs a photography class with the children from the School for Children with Special Needs, a programme which she says gives the children a new way to express themselves.

Started in 2007 by another Peace Corps Volunteer, the programme teaches the children the basics of photography.

“We go on weekly photo walks and we’ll have in-class assignments dealing with different photographic themes, such as motion, portraits or action photos. I believe the kids love it, and I think it gives them a different opportunity to use a different medium,” she said.

Tranchi added that she intends to create a photo book with the children’s work so that it can be sold online. The funds from the sales will be used for the continuation of the photography programme.

Tranchi has also involved the children of the Layou Government School in an art exchange programme that gives them the opportunity to see art from parts of Europe. Described as the highlight of her work in St. Vincent, Tranchi explained that the students from the school made art pieces which were sent to schools in Europe and America, while schools there returned similar items.

“I think just being able to expose kids to different cultures….it’s also nice to be able do that to others,” Tranchi said about the benefits of the programme.

Tranchi also runs a 4H club at the school which is also active in community programmes, including visitations to several schools around the community.

Overall, she has enjoyed her time in St. Vincent, as according to her, she feels a special connection with the people here.

“It’s just my time here has been valuable. The closer it gets to the end, you get more emotional. I know this place will always be a special place in my heart. It’ s been like a home away from home,” she said.

Tranchi is scheduled to leave in October and plans to pursue studies in management of non-profit organizations or arts administration. (OS)