Stories of African Australians of refugee backgrounds

Pierre

A few years ago AfricanOz was one of the few organisations telling the stories of African Australians on the internet (see Archives, Features). Now we’re pleased to observe many organisations publishing books & websites dedicated to this important community history. A recent positive project from The Researchers for Asylum Seekers (RAS) group at University of Melbourne looks at the stories of several refugees, including from Sudan, Somalia & Congo. Some ‘African’ highlights from “Refugees’ Australian Stories: Celebrating the positive contribution of refugees to Australia” include: 

PIERRE, ORIGINALLY FROM DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO is studying International Community Development at Victoria University, while working as a Project Officer in the Office for Justice & Peace of the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne. Read Pierre’s story here:www.ras.unimelb.edu.au 

DAVID, ORIGINALLY FROM SUDAN works with the Brotherhood of St Laurence running the Breakfast Club providing a healthy breakfast for children before school. He also coordinates the School-Parent Education Program. Read David’s story here: www.ras.unimelb.edu.au 

YUSUF OMAR, ORIGINALLY FROM SOMALIA, is a founding member of the Somali-Australia Friendship Association, and is now nearing the completion of his PhD on Somali youth perspectives at the Refugee Research Centre at La Trobe University, and writing freelance in his spare time. Read Yusuf’s story here: www.ras.unimelb.edu.au 

MAIMUN, ORIGINALLY FROM SOMALIA, launched a business venture: Innovation Recruitment Agency Pty Ltd, finding work for disadvantaged community members, particularly refugees. She is a member of the National Australia Bank recruitment panel. Read Maimun’s story here: www.ras.unimelb.edu.au 

Photographer: Dave Tacon

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