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Massage in Africa

Welcome to the first newsletter of The African Touch! Almost a year has passed since I returned from Nairobi to promote and develop the Massage Academy Project (M.A.P.) while here in Victoria .

Our greatest achievement in this time has been the creation of this website. Many thanks to Chris Pritchard for the time he has contributed to our cause.

Please click on the topic headings to read more about our recent activities:

• The African Touch Education Society became officially registered.
• A study group was formed and completed a curriculum outline for our M.A.P.
• Our four-month curriculum has been granted primary approval for membership with the Association of Massage Therapists and Wholistic Practitioners.
• 'Massage for Africa' our first province-wide fundraiser, was a huge success. Link to RMT fundraiser campaign page
• Media coverage was obtained through radio, television, newsprint, and the BC Massage Practitioner quarterly journal.
• Corporate sponsors recognized and contributed to our organization.
• I met with my Canadian hero, Lt. Gen. Romeo D'Allaire.

In February, 2006 I head back to Nairobi for a short trip with a new sense of purpose and the foundation required to meet with potential partners, donors, and to refresh beaurocratic permits with the government of Kenya. I'm eager to visit friends and connect with my apprentice Dorothy.

I'm also excited to visit a young boy named Alex who I befriended in 2004 when he was begging on the streets in my neighborhood. Alex is now in an orphanage called the Emanuel Boys Home near to my old clinic in the suburb of Karen, Nairobi. I plan to offer the boys an introductory lesson in compassionate touch and therapeutic massage. More on this in the next newsletter.

Thanks to everyone who has offered their time, encouragement, and positive input during this year of overcoming obstacles! Special thanks to three women who have volunteered hours of expertise and time: Peggy Bereza, R.M.T., Monique Bottineau, and Danella Parks. Ninashukuru sana. I am most grateful

Sincerely,
Yvonne Poulin, RMT
Founder of the African Touch