The Destination Cuba Program from George Brown College has been participating in the Che Guevara Brigade for six years. Each year, the experience is unique. This year, the first two weeks of our stay were spent in Santa Clara in the dormitories of the Instituto de Sciencas – a medical school. Our focus in Santa Clara was working alongside Cubans, touring historical and cultural sites, and immersing ourselves in the Cuban culture.

Part of our work included painting the Casa Dos Abuelos – a seniors' home. Our painting time was limited, but some members of the brigade were able to use their artistic talents to create a spectacular, tropically themed mural that the seniors will be able to enjoy for years to come. Though our task was to provide a freshly painted residence for the seniors, our greatest pleasure came from the time we spent in conversation with them.

We also had the pleasure of working at organopanicos (organic farms). Here we spent our time picking weeds from row upon row of organic produce: guava, beets, carrots, lettuce, green beans and corn. The warm welcome and hospitality we received from the workers there made our experience that much richer. Not only did they take the time to share their knowledge of organic farming with us, they also provided us with an abundance of produce to take back to our residence. Our meals were much enhanced!

We also volunteered with the organic farm of the Instituto de Artes – an instructional art high school. We worked alongside Cuban students who were also doing volunteer work. We picked cucumbers and made the earth ready for planting by clearing away rocks. Working with the students was inspiring. It was great to see a young group of students giving back to the school they attend during the year.