Introducing Cassie Hardin

Published

A new fellow fufu fan!

This month, I would like to introduce Ms. Cassandra (Cassie) Hardin- one of our new Project Managers joining the RTC this year (points for gender balance!). Cassie visited the RTC in June and experienced, first-hand, the exciting RTC training experience. In this feature, join me as we travel into the world of Cassie Hardin to find out a bit more about who she is and what inspires her. Hopefully some of our alumni will get to meet Cassie during future course deliveries.

Ms. Cassie Hardin- RTC Project Manager

Could you kindly tell us a bit about yourself? Who is Cassandra Hardin?

Thanks, Sarah! I recently moved to the Washington, DC area from Kentucky (a state in the center of the United States) after finishing my Masters in Diplomacy & Security. Before working at the West Africa Regional Training Center, I interned for the U.S. Department of State in Guangzhou, China and worked for 2 years managing programming & logistics for the University of Kentucky Confucius Institute.

What would you say most motivates you?  What are you most excited or passionate about?

I really enjoy the idea that my work is helping a greater cause. I love working internationally and making friends from all different parts of the world.

What fascinates you most about your new job, as an RTC Project Manager?

I am excited to be working with such a successful and efficient team. I feel I can learn from everyone at RTC, and hope to use my own skills to help lead our cause as well. There is great opportunity for us all to grow together.

So you’ve been to Ghana once. Was this your first visit to an African nation?

Yes, this was my first time to Ghana and Africa as well. I’m currently trying to read more about Ghana and the history of the greater West African region. It is rich with the rise and fall of many empires I never studied in school. It’s fascinating to see how these histories culminate into the Ghana we experience today.

What are your thoughts on Ghana in general and on our famous green chili (shito)?

I absolutely loved Ghanaian food and can’t wait to have it again. The spicy red sauce with onion was my favorite, and shito was great as well. I want to try more Ghanaian dishes with fufu, banko, plantain, and others in the authentic Ghanaian style! More fish heads please!

Sorry, I got distracted thinking about the food. On Ghana in general—I never studied Ghana in school, but I am trying to learn all I can now and look forward to learning more. I want to spend time outside the RTC, discovering the Ghana’s history, culture and people.

We are privileged to have Cassie Hardin on board and we look forward to working together as a team to further the cause of the West Africa Regional Training Center!

[Post by: Sarah Dadson. Sarah is the Participant & Alumni Coordinator for the West Africa Regional Training Center. Email her at info@westafricartc.org]