Why Refugee-Led Organizations Must Be At The Forefront of Leading Change
- Sponsor
- School of Social Work, Illinois Global Institute, WGGP
- Speaker
- Robert Hakiza, co-founder of Young African Refugees for Integral Development (YARID)
- Registration
- Register here
- Views
- 220
- Originating Calendar
- Center for Global Studies: Cosponsored Events
Robert Hakiza, co-founder of Young African Refugees for Integral Development (YARID), will deliver a powerful talk on the transformative impact of refugee-led organizations (RLOs) in displaced communities. Drawing from deep experience and research, he will highlight how RLOs, uniquely attuned to the needs of refugees, drive sustainable solutions and build resilient communities. Hakiza will address the stark funding gap faced by RLOs, despite their proven effectiveness, and advocate for a paradigm shift recognizing refugees as agents of change. He will call for increased investment in RLOs and the removal of systemic barriers like bureaucratic red tape. Finally, he will spotlight emerging refugee-led networks like RELON, emphasizing their potential to amplify the voices of RLOs and reshape policies affecting their communities. This presentation promises to challenge norms and inspire action toward equitable refugee assistance.