INTERVIEW Jessie Wang “�” We were very fortunate to have our Malaysian intern Jessie onboard through the summer. She exudes absolute love through her dedication to work and her interaction with the kids. The children and us will miss her smile but know that she will always be on the lookout for us! Daisy: How and when did you find out about Bright Side Projects and what made you want to become an intern? Jessie: I first found out about Bright Side Projects when they were recruiting interns on Indeed website.They briefly depicted their core values, that would teach their principles of an inclusive and eco-friendly world to children through creative arts programs. This piqued my curiosity since arts and environmental issues have always been my interests. After browsing their website, I was attracted by their events and concepts, thus decided to send in my resume. D: What do you think are unique characteristics to Bright Side Projects from other organizations? J: BSP often emphasizes the children’s autonomy and are willing to listen to the children’s voices. They don’t treat the children as “customers” but actually have kids tasks to independently complete.For example, children were asked to wash the tablewares by themselves, and should help restore spaces after workshops. Bright Side also practices their motto, which is caring for the environment, from zero-plastic to vegan meals. I am happy to realize that I have become a friendlier earth citizen too after these three months of short term internship! D: Any memorable moments in the workshops with the children? J: Some children would reach out to me out of their curiosity after learning I am from Malaysia. Some of them requested me to teach them Malay, some of them show me the Malaysian Youtubers they have on their subscribed list. It is my pleasure getting this chance to engage in a mini cultural exchange with them.On the last Chingchuan I went to, a child asked, while locked arm in arm with me, “You were here with us for our graduation at the sprinkler party right?”It feels so good to be remembered by the children. I suppose adults sometimes need to make some younger friends to remind themselves of their innocence, perhaps! D: Has this internship or moments in interacting with children through Bright Side Projects brought about any changes in how you approach issues/kids in the future? J: This is for sure! For example, I was in a children camp recently, and watched the kids climb up the hill with their huge luggage. Previously I would instantly give a hand to them yet this time I choose to stay and watch from behind. I would reward them words of affirmation if they made it on their own. I have learned that the ability of children is so much more beyond our imagination from the way Bright Side get along with their children. All we need to do is to let go, make sure they have the chance and space to go through the ups and downs of life on their own, because only then they will grow stronger. Yes of course, after face-to-face interaction with the children and becoming more familiar with them, we made amendments on our events and our routine according to their actual needs. Other than that, seeing them enjoyed so much during the events would make me feel that the efforts and time paid were worth it!
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