Karibu – giving a voice to those without
An African Celebration event for Refugee Week Scotland told the story of Karibu, an organisation helping to integrate, support and empower African women seeking asylum in Glasgow.
Founder Henriette Koubakouenda spoke powerfully and movingly – she hopes Karibu can “voice the concern of women without voice.” Through women telling their story of building a new life in Glasgow, I began to get a sense of what a struggle it had been. To flee from war and violence to a new country, knowing no-one, with lack of language and poverty to overcome – these women had rebuilt their lives and were helping others to do the same.
Helping to overcome isolation
Levita, a primary school teacher from the Congo spoke only French, not English, when she arrived at Karibu. She explained the benefits of being part of the group – meeting people and learning skills; she overcame isolation and language barriers. From sewing: “thread”, “tape measure”, “please” and “thank you” gradually building new vocabulary. Now she urges all newcomers “Please English, don’t speak French”.
Karibu has big ambitions
Despite obstacles, Karibu has big ambitions for itself. It is launching a fashion label of bright, bold clothing using materials from Africa and made by members to raise funds.
Get involved – help Karibu
Karibu is seeking help from Scottish women who can offer advice and assistance with management, business or activities to build a stronger organisation.
Henriette Koubakouenda explained that although it is not always easy to run an organisation with vulnerable women, they aim to give younger women or those with strong language skills, ways to speak out and voice concerns. it also allows these women to contribute to Scottish society. “We want to belong to Scotland… want to give back to Scotland…Scotland has given us sanctuary.”
With its strong history and big future, Karibu certainly does have a lot to contribute to Scotland.
If you’d like to get involved, please Contact Charlotte Atta on 0141 237 7926 or email karibu_glasgow@yahoo.co.uk
