Burundi is a small, Central-East African nation whose recent history is tarnished by ethnic conflict, genocide, war and extreme poverty. However, it is a nation that is beginning to write itself a new story. In this photo a traditional Burundian drumming troupe take cues from its dynamic conductor. (It's a show not to be missed!)

Photography by Brandon Thiessen

Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) service worker Brandon Thiessen recently finished a three-year term working with partner organization Help Channel Burundi as a capacity-builder/reforestation worker in Burundi. Also an avid photographer, Thiessen put together a small collection of images he created during his term. "It was a nice way to remember some of the rich experiences I've had in the past three years," he said about working on this gallery and captions during his flight home. Thiessen has returned to Southern Ontario to spend time with his family before journeying across Canada and seeking work as a photographer.