An outside perspective of Alexandra
American student, Tim Carroll, recently completed an internship at
the ARP, assisting in Local Economic Development.
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"I came here with my university last winter and we were only in
Alex for a few hours, but that was all I needed. I got in touch with
Darlene Louw and begged to come back and volunteer my time and effort
in whatever way I could.
I currently have one year left of University. I am studying Finance
with a minor in International Business. I specialize in the
development of small, medium, and micro-enterprises, as well as
micro-financial services. I have a strong core background in all
aspects of business including financial analyses, investment
strategies, business management and communication, and marketing.
I see major opportunities to develop the tourism industry. Alex has so
much history, most of which I am slowly discovering while I’m here.
What is amazing is that when you come to Alexandra, one can expect a
diversified experience. Alex has a lot to offer any tourist. Alexandra
is situated in a very strategic location; positioned between JoBurg
and Sandton, and I think we all need to collaborate to make Alex a
destination
I am here until August as the Local Economic Development Assistant to
Darlene Louw. I am working on a number of things, mainly developing a
strategy for tourism, also reviewing business proposals and offering
critical analysis, as well as offering my own ideas for developing
small, medium, and micro-enterprises. In my spare time here I am
researching and investigating the possible opportunities for access to
capital, especially small business owners and potential entrepreneurs.
One thing I must note about my experience here is that the people are
unique and special. There is a certain character about Alex that I
haven’t found anywhere else, and the people really make the
difference. The congeniality of the people really helped me cope with
the culture shock I received, coming from Philadelphia in the United
States.
My outside perspective of Alexandra is that it is the most complex
scenario I’ve ever faced. There are so many issues needing to be dealt
with, all forming an intricate puzzle. Yes, I see a town trampled by
poverty and disease, yet where others fail to tread, I see absolute
opportunity. There are almost half a million residents in Alexandra,
all of whom have access (limited at times) to the most vibrant economy
in the southern hemisphere. I see enormous potential for growth and
development; otherwise I wouldn’t be here.
I think the people need to see the same opportunity I see, and feel a
sense of empowerment. They are very lucky to be so close in proximity
to a globally-integrated economy, and everyone should be taking a
piece of the pie!"
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