Voice from participants of KCCP(JICA Knowledge Co-Creation Program)

Ms. Shaimaa Abdel Moniem Aly Sharaf
Nationality: Egypt
Program Title: Biomass Utilization Technology

Japan is one of the safest countries in the World. As soon as I arrived to the airport, I understood why. My first contact was at the borders. In front of me, an immigration officer. An old man. A lovely old man. I could see that he was struggling with English, but he was trying so hard. He wasn't only polite. He was the meaning of politeness, of kindness, of loveliness. I was that silly one, with the big smile, enjoying the moment.

Japanese people like JICA's staffs are never going to give up on you. They are too kind for that. They will keep helping you out until you decide to give up. These forty days made me realize how much we are in a rush all the time. How we are not always kind or patient or polite. When I say "WE", I'm putting a lot of occidental people in my boat. Because, yes, I'm also in this boat. I'm not the kindest person on Earth. And I know that in my own country, you wouldn't be able to have a chat with the bus driver for five precious minutes or having someone who is ready to ditch their desk to help you out. It's so easy to get into this quick-rush-hour-because-time-is-money circle. It's also very sad. We are often too busy with nothing to help others. A tiny move, a shy smile, a polite sign, honest eye contact, a little piece of your time turned my training course period into a grateful experience.

To you, dear Japanese who gave me their time, their passion… Thank you. Please remember me because I will always remember you, and keep in contact. You are the kindest humans on Earth. I could also say that you are the happiest humans on Earth!