Cassidy Beckford-Moore

International Experience Country:
South Africa
Cohort Year:
2012
Home Institution:

University of Pittsburgh | Oakland

Heinz Programming Area:
Children, Youth, and Families
International Experience Summary:

When Cassidy Beckford-Moore first stepped off the plane in Cape Town, she knew that she was beginning a once in a lifetime experience – little did she know that this international experience would impact her life substantially. Cassidy gained incredible political and historical insight thanks to her passionate professors and a series of cultural excursions ranging from a tour of Robben Island to a volunteer opportunity in the Kayamandi Township and a visit to the District Six Museum in Cape Town. Upon the end of each school day, Cassidy eagerly accepted opportunities to explore the city. Each outing taught her something cultural related such as learning to Saki, a south African style of dance; observing Braai, meaning “barbecued” or “grilled”; and honing her haggling skills at one of the largest open air markets in Cape Town. She coupled her studies with amazing adventures she had never before imagined. Cassidy went in with the idea of an open mind to all opportunities. This is how she ended up jumping from the highest bungee site in the world and zip lining through the Tsitsikamma forests. Cassidy was given more than an opportunity to explore a new country; she was granted an experience that helped her learn so much more of the person she wanted to become and how she wants to impact the world.

Community Engagement Experience Summary:

CEE Title: Green & Global: Starting Local

Green & Global: Starting Local is a sustainability event that promoted environmental consciousness and educated members of our community about energy, water conservation, sustainable agriculture, recycling, and creative reuse. Through presentations, demonstrations, and interactive activities, we translated these global issues into local action here in Pittsburgh. Each subject presented in an interactive manner in separate areas to encourage participation. When attendees completed an activity, they received a stamp. Once all stamps were collected and the card is filled, the attendees would have “built their sustainable city.” Cost of entry was a recyclable donation (plastic bags, light bulbs, batteries, etc.), and participants had the chance to win prizes donated by green, sustainable organizations from around the city.This event sought to bring sustainability education from local and abroad to the Pittsburgh community