Contributing to “better our world”
Astrid Piet is a psychologist with a passion for helping others. Here, she shares why she chooses to donate to MSF.
Photo: © Astrid Piet
Tell us about yourself, Astrid.
I hold a master’s degree in counselling psychology. I have worked in the South African National Defence Force for 10 years in the field in psychology but resigned this year to set up my own practice in Cape Town.
Growing up I have always been passionate about helping others. To this end I studied psychology, which helps me to live out this passion. I volunteer my time to Justice Desk in Cape Town which is an NGO that is making a profound difference in the lives of children and youth in the poverty-stricken and high violence Cape Flats area. I am also trying to support the primary school in my village by making regular donations.
Why did you decide to become an MSF donor?
I have a friend who is a doctor who always speaks highly about the medical work that doctors who are affiliated with MSF provide. I believe that if I can make a small difference in the world with making donations to MSF, I am contributing to better our world. Sometimes if one cannot physically help in our communities there are places like MSF that we can support.
How important do you think it is for MSF to speak out and bear witness to the suffering we see?
It is important to report on hardships that people experience to raise awareness and encourage social change. By speaking out on events that inflict harm, the root cause of a problem can be identified and preventative measures for the future can be organised. Finally, emphasis can be placed on a moral and ethical responsibility towards commitment to human rights and justice for human beings. What would you say to new donors or people considering donating to convince them to become long-term MSF supporters?
In our country we are challenged with an alarming rate of various crises. Often times our government or governments around the world may be able to respond but they may not be able to react to mass needs. It is organisations like MSF who therefore are urged to respond to those who may not be catered for. A small donation monthly by our larger community has the capacity to lead to significant change if it is directed to organisations like MSF. Your recurring donation may ultimately provide MSF with stability to sufficiently support a just cause. The ongoing support of Astrid and other donors like you allows us to provide impartial medical care and to remain reactive to healthcare emergencies in over 70 countries worldwide!