African Australian NEWS MAGAZINE.
ISSUE FIVE // OCTOBER 2014
Inside this issue Afrofeast Food Truck: On a Roll
Thando - a voice aiming for the stars ISSUE F IV E
A new face in African Fashion Ebola: Fear is killing people in Sierra Leone Refugee Welcome Zone
1
ISSN 2203-0972
Contributors SIDIQUE BAH - PUBLISHER Sidique came to Australia in 2001 after fleeing a civil war in his homeland of Sierra Leone. He studied journalism at Fourah Bay College in Sierra Leone and worked as a reporter for the Statesman Newspaper. He now holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree specialising in Multimedia Studies from the University of South Australia.
TANJA RUDD Tanja has recently returned from living in Namibia with her husband and family. Over the last 12 months SALT Magazine readers have been sharing the Rudd family’s experiences as Australians in Africa.
MANAL YOUNUS Manal is a Spoken Word Poet of Eritrean origin. She is the Assistant Director of Welcome to Australia, an organisation that encourages understanding between different communities to change the conversation about multiculturalism to a more positive one.
Inside this issue
2/
Thando Sikwila
4/
African Australian Journalist locked up in Freetown
Keeping her dream alive, African Australian Voice contestant reaches out for the stars.
Sydney based Sonny Cole recounts his harrowing experience at the hands of the police in Sierra Leone whilst filming a documentary on corruption.
6/ A new face in African Fashion The future of African fashion through the eyes of Zambian designer Kapasa Musonda.
8/
Afrofeast food truck The first African food truck takes off.
10/
Fear is killing people in Sierra Leone
A Sierra Leonean resident and radio broadcaster shares the predicament facing a nation where it is not safe to be sick.
12/ Refugee Welcome Zones
Australian born Manal Younous weighs in on the declaration of 'Refugee Welcome Zones'.
LINDA LIWEWE Linda is a student of English and History at the University of Adelaide and is a passionate writer. She is originally from Zambia.
CYRIL HAROLD SMITH Cyril is a radio journalist based in Freetown, Sierra Leone. He currently works for Culture Radio station.
Credits ARTICLES
Sidique Bah, Tanja Rudd, Manal Younus, Linda Liwewe, Cyril Harold Smith, Bob Dixon-Short PHOTOGRAPHY Damien Pleming, Karl Gosper, Matt Turner, DESIGN Inadifs Productions PRINTING Replica Press
AF RICA N -AUS T RA LI A N N EW S MAG A Z I N E
Cover
Voice contestant Thando Sikwila Photo: G&G Studios
Sidique Bah
From the Editor’s desk It has been one year since we launched SALT Magazine. During that year we have spoken to talented,
evade our continent. Famine, disease, drought, civil
determined, but essentially, ordinary African-
war, genocide, tribal disputes and just plain murderous
Australians trying to find their place and make their
ambitions all pour into the buckets of misery which
mark in Australian society. We have looked at the
require external intervention.
challenges facing African-Australians of refugee backgrounds, resolutely rebuilding their lives against the backdrop of the traumas plaguing their homelands. As well, we have spoken to Africans who have already made their marks on the world stage – writers, actors, fashion designers, and musicians. We have used their stories as examples for all who aspire to recognition and reward despite any disadvantage bestowed by their origins. Our editorials have focused on imploring Africans to take some responsibility for the state of the countries they have left behind – states which are so appalling, that fellow Africans choose to risk their lives in search of a better life rather than stay and live under the pangs of hunger and hardship. Amidst the layers of poverty, corruption, crime and despotism plaguing our homelands, we now have a further challenge which poses a serious risk not only to Africa, but also to the world as a whole – an Ebola outbreak which has spiralled out of control because of inadequate infrastructure and an absence of contingency planning and cross-border co-operation. In the affected countries this crisis clearly demonstrates cracks in our leadership as international observers and medical personnel unanimously condemn the domestic infrastructure and systems they found when trying to address the Ebola threat. We must recognise and appreciate the efforts of the international community in times of crisis – times which occur with increasing frequency as good government and responsible governance continues to
ISSUE F IV E
A question which must be asked – Just when, will the international community turn its back on the needs of a continent which appears incapable of looking after its own? Needs which ironically appear greatest in those countries with the richest mineral resources. The proceeds from which, with the apparent compliance of the exploiting multi-nationals, are applied not for the betterment of the people, but to the building of monumental follies and the numerous bank accounts of the ruling cabals. We watch on television and social media Ebola patients transported to hospitals in wheelbarrows while fleets of luxurious vehicles are idly parked in the mansions of the privileged few. It is long overdue for all of us of African heritage to acknowledge our responsibility for the woes of Africa. Playing the victim, blaming western colonisation and ongoing interference is no longer an option. Wherever we are, whoever we are, and whatever we can contribute to the equation – we can no longer be silent to the suffering of the countries we left behind. SALT Magazine will continue to call on fellow African Australians to work collaboratively toward creating a continent of self-reliance, accountability, and responsibility, and will strive to report the injustices and excesses of the regimes which have been allowed to flourish because of our weakness and our indifference. We will take this approach into our second year of publication and we trust you, our valued readers, will join, support and encourage us in our journey.
1
Thando performing live PHOTO: Karl Gosper of Shutterpunk Images
2/
A F RICA N -AU ST R A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I N E
A Voice Aiming for the Stars During a recent episode of Australia’s most watched reality TV show ‘The Voice’, judges Kylie Minogue and Joel Madden swivelled their chairs around to see the face behind the soulful sound of African Australian artist Thando Sikwila. She chose to be coached by Australian pop superstar Kylie Minogue, and was later saved by Puerto Rican
Auditioning for ‘The Voice was challenging as there are thousands of other aspiring artists queuing for a spot. So how did Thando pull it off ? She thought that the producers of the show wanted her, not only for her fabulous voice, but also to be a source of inspiration for other aspiring African Australian artists, “Getting in to the voice is not easy, and staying to the end is the hardest. But we all should have the courage to follow our dreams.”
music sensation Ricky Martin during the course of the competition. It was a roller coaster ride for this 21 year old artist from Melbourne, who originally came from Zimbabwe, as she left the competition, fully charged and ready to
For me I always wanted to do something that I could express myself in, I have always been singing as long as I can remember
take on the music industry. SALT Magazine telephoned Thando to hear her story
Thando wants to live up to her own expectations, and
and get an insight into how she felt about mingling
will work hard to do something unique to propel her
with world renowned celebrities, Will.I.am, Ricky
into the limelight. “For me I always wanted to do
Martin, Kylie Minogue and Joel Madden.
something that I could express myself in, I have always
She felt very lucky to get the exposure of working with
been singing as long as I can remember, “she said.
big stars she said, “At first I was a bit worried because
“I will keep my hope alive through my work on a
I was thinking I would be star struck and all I’ll be
new album, and on a planned tour early 2015. I will
thinking is ‘Oh my goodness these people are so famous
definitely be on the road early next year. I want people
and so successful,’ but when we started working with
to share my music and see what we are doing now is
them especially the one on one sessions you start to
very different from what they saw on television. I have
realise that they are people just like you and me. The
done a lot of growing as an artist and especially since
only difference is they have been so blessed to
going on the show, and it made me realise what kind of
be successful.”
musician I want to be and what kind of music I want
We asked how she felt when the two judges offered her a spot in their teams. “I was really hoping that at least one chair would turn but I wasn’t sure if I would
to write. People know my name now and they will get to know my music and I want them to be a part of my journey.”
be able to do it so when Kylie and Joel turned I don’t
SALT Magazine is sure Thando will meet her own
know, I was so excited, I was like ok I’m now in the
high standards and we wish her well in her quest for
competition, this is becoming real” she said.
stardom in the music world.
ISSUE F IV E
3
Pademba Road prisoners being transported to court in Freetown, SIerra Leone. PHOTO: Fernando Moleres
LOCKED UP in Sierra Leone by Edmonson Sonny Cole
I was born and raised in Sierra Leone and worked as a camera operator for the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Service before and during the civil war of 1991 - 2002.
I have lived in Sydney, Australia for the past 10 years,
Hundreds of thousands of Sierra Leoneans died in that
My return to my country of birth proved to be a
conflict and I witnessed both the diplomatic façade as well as the underlying turbulence in that period of my country’s history. My globally released documentary, Darkness in Paradise, stands as a testament to what I witnessed through my camera.
continuing my career as a cameraman and a documentary producer. In that capacity I planned to return to Sierra Leone with a colleague to document alleged systemic corruption throughout all levels of its society.
harrowing and potentially fatal encounter with the current Sierra Leonean regime, as I was arrested, beaten, and detained at the notorious maximum security prison in Pademba Road, Freetown. Now back in Australia, I want to share my story with SALT Magazine readers.
4/
A F RICA N -AU ST R A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I N E
My ordeal started when I tried to help a fellow Sierra
Ironically, through official channels, I’d previously
Leonean-Australian who had been detained in one of
requested a visit to the prison to interview some inmates
the local police stations, allegedly unlawfully and in
but I had been denied access. Now, here I was as an
violation of his rights. His case was being handled, badly
inmate.
in my opinion, by the Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Mme Memuna Conteh, and I went to the Ministry of Information to record my concerns. I also gave an interview to a local radio station – which apparently brought me to Mme Conteh’s attention.
I knew the prison had been built during the colonial era to house about 300 inmates but now over 1600 prisoners were incarcerated there. I witnessed first hand the appalling conditions under which the prisoners were kept, and after they learnt I was a journalist, all
A few days later I was at a friend's house when I heard
were eager to tell me of their experiences. For some
gunshots in the street outside, so I took my camera and
this included being held on remand for up to six years
went to see what was happening. I saw a police vehicle
without trial.
there with its siren lights on and as I recorded the scene, three men rushed toward me from the vehicle and tried to grab my camera. We struggled as I tried to tell them I was a journalist but they started beating me with batons. I forced my way to the police vehicle hoping the officer in charge of the operation would stop the assault but to my absolute dismay I came face to face with Mme Conteh, whose behaviour I had reported and complained about in the radio interview. She told me to surrender my camera and get into the back of the vehicle, which I did. From other detainees already in the vehicle, I found out the gunshots resulted from police trying to control a clash between rival local society groups. In the chaos innocent bystanders, including myself, were caught up in the fray and arrested. With the others I was taken to Ross Road police station and detained overnight. The next day I was told that Mme Memuna had decided we would face trial and be imprisoned. I was incredulous, absolutely refusing to believe this information – but that is exactly what unfolded.
I shared a cramped cell with 10 other people – there was no proper ventilation and most prisoners lay on the floor, barely clothed, packed like sardines in order to fit in the available space. Luckily for me, local journalists heard of my plight and rallied to my defence through the media - as a result I only spent one night in the prison. At our trial, the magistrate asked us to plead guilty which I refused to do. Regardless however, I and all my fellow detainees were found guilty, and each had to pay 550,000 Leones (roughly $140 AUD) - 150 000 for repairing the police vehicle which was claimed to have been damaged during the rioting; and 400, 0000 as our court fine. In total 14million Leones (over $3600 AUD) was collected on that day with no official documentation or receipts and those who failed to raise the money were sent back to prison for two months. Several weeks after my release, I was arrested again when I got caught up in a police operation to net illegal money changers. As I filmed the action I was approached by the officer in charge of the operation and arrested. This time, thankfully, I was released without
We were taken to the court and placed in a secured
charge after being allowed to telephone several of my
dock. The Magistrate entered and announced that he
Freetown associates.
was too busy to hear our case on that day but as we were charged with riotous conduct, he would detain us all for eight days in the Pademba Rd prison. I tried to explain to him that I was an Australian journalist but his response was that he would investigate my claim “when you come back after eight days.”
ISSUE F IV E
I am now back in Australia, and enjoying the rights and the freedoms we take for granted here. If needed, I will return to Sierra Leone and help in the struggle to introduce enlightenment, equality and liberal justice to that beautiful but troubled country of my ancestors.
5
Models on stage at Kapasa’s fashion show at the Dignity Zambia charity event in Adelaide. PHOTO: Matt Turner
A New face in African Fashion
Guests were privy to a vibrant collection of
In August 2014, Adelaide was host to a unique fashion event at the official launch of Dignity for Zambia, a charity which supports vulnerable women in rural southern Zambia.
try to just sew little things - nothing serious.”
6/
A F RICA N -AU ST R A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I N E
increasingly popular African fashions designed by a young and upcoming Zambian fashionista Kapasa Musonda, whose bold and colourful African prints, infused with western flair, were universally considered as “awesome.” SALT Magazine met with Kapasa to find out more about her aspirations and inspirations, and her thoughts on the future of African designs in a global market. Her mother was a professional seamstress who encouraged Kapasa to sew and she began piecing fabrics together and designing her own clothes. “While I was waiting for my final school results I wanted to experiment with mum’s sewing machines and would
She had her lucky break in 2006 at the age of 17, when, with another 200 Zambian young people, she enrolled in a six month sponsored Business, IT and Health
Zambian Fashion Desiger Kapasa Musonda and Dignity Zambia founder Sandy Clark. PHOTO: Matt Turner
training program with a local charity organisation,
She thinks that African fashion can blend with western
funded by USAID. Kapasa was among the eight
influences, as she believes her designs can make her
participants whose business plans were approved for
clients see that they don’t have to be overtly traditional
sponsorship and a trip overseas for further education.
with their outfit. “My job is to present my designs in
“I made a business plan for the competition on fashion design and I was lucky to have been one of the winning
a way that people would want to wear it as oppose to wear something completely western”.
plans,” she said, “We went to the United states and
In the past few years established, ‘big name’ designers
that’s when I was advised to build a foundation in
have been using African prints, and for Kapasa, African
fashion before starting my business. I won a scholarship
fashion is just beginning to grow into a signature
in a fashion school through the business plan and the
print which would never go out of style. “I see African
designs I did – and that’s how I got into the fashion game.
fashion really growing possibly taking over the runways
“I like to describe my design in four words,” she said.
out there,” she says with a smile.
“Modern, artistic, colourful and simple, and above all,
Kapasa said she loved her time in Adelaide, and it’s a
I really want to make my client happy and pleased with
place she’d like to visit again. SALT Magazine looks
my work”.
forward to welcoming her back and being treated to
Pressed about her particular ‘style’ she said “I think
another taste of her fabulous design collection.
my style is ever evolving, I always want people to
You can view more photos of her collection on our
experience something different so I would not say my
website - www.saltmagazine.org
designs are African per se, they have African inspiration - but each piece is different”.
ISSUE F IV E
7
Dennis Grace at work in the Afrofeast Food Truck
Rolls down under Ugandan born Dennis Grace has started Australia’s one and only mobile food truck, serving delicious pan-African street foods in the festivals and streets of Melbourne.
in the corporate sector, but says Dennis with a chuckle,
Dennis claims the Afrofeast Food Truck is all about
degree and you want to sell in a shop - why don’t you
“Like most migrants I found it difficult settling in. I couldn’t get a job with Bunnings or even as a sweeper with Maccas, I found it hard when I was questioned about my degree. People thought ‘You have a Master’s
redefining African cuisine for food-savvy Melbournians,
go out and look for a decent job”.
serving the tastiest African street foods with names like
Three years into his stay, he decided to start his own
the Ugandan Rolex and the South African Bunny Chow. And it’s all done with the spirit of urban Africa: fresh, vibrant and dynamic, using organic, ethically-sourced products wherever possible. The food truck operates in streets, markets, festivals and
business. “I saw an opening for the type of food service I wanted to offer, and picked the name Afrofeast because it reflects the kind of service I wanted to provide to my customers. I want to give people a different experience that has never been here before and also promote
at private and corporate events. Dennis also offers food
African culture and identity,” he said.
truck consulting, saving valuable time and money for
“I’m not a trained chef,” Dennis admits, “I started
new entrants to the industry to launch their products and services. We spoke with Dennis about his business and his background. He migrated to Australia in 2011 armed with a Masters degree and ambitions to make his way
8/
A F RICA N -AU ST R A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I N E
cooking at an early age. Growing up with my mum and nine siblings in a small house meant everybody was expected to cook. By the time I turned seven, mum used to say ‘Oh Dennis is a very good cook.”
PHOTO: Damien Plaming
His food is mainly influenced by South and East African cuisine and a wide variety is on offer. The most sought after are Boerewore sausages and Bunny Chow- which is a hollowed out loaf of bread, filled with lamb curry. Dennis is humbled and grateful to all the Melbournians including the African Australian community who have kept coming back for more of the food he has to offer. He has also won some media attention and slowly but surely his business is building. For now Afrofeast is a small business barely making enough profit to live on, but Dennis is optimistic and even has plans to establish outlets in the other states. SALT Magazine found his enthusiasm infectious and we are sure he can realise his dreams. At the same time we admire his outlook on life and his commitment to “….experience the happiness that comes from building a business from the ground up.” Visit Afrofeast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/afrofeast
ISSUE F IV E
9
This biggest Ebola outbreak ever recorded requires an intensification of efforts to avoid it from spreading further and claiming many more lives. PHOTO: Flickr ŠEC/ECHO/Jean-Louis Mosser
2014
EBOLA VIRUS OUTBREAK 10/
Countries with ebola outbreaks number of cases
OVER 500 A Z I N E A F RICA N -AU ST R A L I A N N EW S MAG
TOTAL CASES 8397 TOTAL DEATHS 4032
48% DEATH RATE *WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION as at 8 OCTOBER 2014
A PERSONAL PERSPECTIVE.
FEAR IS KILLING PEOPLE IN SIERRA LEONE By Cyril Harold Smith, Freetown.
In my opinion the challenges facing Sierra Leone because of the ebola epidemic, have created a vacuum in our health system leading to failures to respond to other diseases that also have high mortality rates.
and unless our government takes measures to address
All attention is focused on containing the spread of
and typhoid fever amongst many other diseases, are a
ebola, yet there are people suffering from malaria,
major threat to our wider society.
cardiovascular diseases and other ailments that need urgent treatment by medical personnel, many of whom remain without protective clothing and, through fear, are deserting the hospitals.
this predicament, the overall health burden will continue to be severe. Malaria continues to be a major cause of death in children under the age of 5 years old throughout the country, while high blood pressure, diabetes, hepatitis
There are allegations that patients in some of the hospitals are not treated equally by medical staff, creating further fear amongst people in the grip of this outbreak, who have watched their loved ones succumb
The present health situation is so complicated that the
to ailments other than ebola. Reports are being made of
people are becoming confused as to whether ebola alone
unidentified corpses remaining unclaimed, uncollected
is the ravager. There have been anecdotal reports of
and visible in public areas, including a corpse I have
deaths from other causes, where the patients were left to
personally seen which has lain abandoned for over three
die because care wasn’t available. As a result, people are
days and is now decomposing causing additional threats
worried, afraid and distrustful. The Minister of Health
to the health and well-being of the community.
must urgently bring together all health stakeholders and ensure that hospitals are opened to patients for treatment, and that all medical staff receive adequate protection against the ebola virus.
I call on the government of Sierra Leone to give its people leadership and hope in this most challenging of times. The current climate of dithering, dissembling and evasion of responsibilities does nothing for the
This could be done with the opening of a ‘screening’
reputation of our country – internally or internationally.
ward which patients would attend before their
This government must do whatever is necessary to
acceptance for treatment at the hospital. There are
safeguard its people against this current ebola epidemic
hundreds of hospital patients without specialist care,
and to recognise and address the flow on impacts of the disease.
ISSUE F IV E
11
Welcome to Australia Assistant Director Manal Younus speaking outside of Parliament House. PHOTO: Mark Zed
12/
A F RICA N -AU ST R A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I N E
REFUGEE WELCOME ZONE
You are welcome here!
It is a fantastic initiative for local governments to openly say, “This is a place where refugees are welcome and we will not tolerate discrimination toward them.” Around Australia, 108 of 565 city councils have now committed to being refugee welcome zones. This means that 19.1 percent of our local councils are actively showing their support for refugees. However, it’s interesting to compare these statistics with the 71 percent of Australians who support ‘turning back the boats’ which indicates a growing intolerance for refugees. These views are perpetuated by the media bias surrounding the issue and the fear-mongering politics that continues to poison what should be a fair and humanitarian conversation.
By Manal Younus, Assistant DIrector of the The Welcome Centre
Perhaps the inconsistency stems from the use of the term ‘boat people’. It has become a label for the ‘other’,
I’m not a refugee. I’m lucky. I didn’t have to escape war to come to Australia. My father went through the hardships of being a refugee and in many ways, he took the 'bullet' for me.
the cheater and the basis for xenophobia to the point
Coming from a community where so many members are
the outline of a picture.
refugees and now working amongst refugees on a daily basis at Welcome to Australia, I’m well aware of the
that no ‘boat person’ could be accepted as a ‘genuine’ refugee, despite 90 percent of those who come by boat being just that. Welcome zones are fantastic, but it’s much like drawing
What we need now is for the community to colour it in.
sacrifices that people make and the hardships they face.
Whether or not Adelaide is actually a welcome zone
I’m also well aware of the discrimination that many deal
in more than just theory, now depends on the everyday
with depending on how they arrived in Australia.
person and their attitude toward refugees.
So while it may be difficult to change policy in
And since we can’t always tell refugees apart from
Canberra, it is good to see local governments
everybody else, perhaps it’s about opening our minds to
recognising the discrimination faced by refugees and
treating everybody equally, irrespective of who they are
choosing to become refugee welcome zones.
or what they look like.
Adelaide City Council recently committed to becoming
If we aim for this, then perhaps we wouldn’t need
a refugee welcome zone. This means that they have
specific zones to welcome people. Otherwise, we may
committed to ensuring that their council area is
also find ourselves sending the message that refugees are
culturally safe for refugees.
welcome in some areas, but not others.
ISSUE F IV E
13
Performers at the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture event which was held on June 26, 2014 at Tandanya, National Aboriginal Cultural Institute.
By Sidique Bah
Some African humanitarian entrants may set foot on Australian soil with no physical belongings but many more carry with them the hidden baggage of their life experiences. For some, that includes the memories of torture, deprivation, persecution, and oppression – memories they bring with them on their journeys into a new life and which remain with them despite the added challenges they face in grappling with housing, schooling, financial issues and employment in their strange and complex new world.
14/
A F RICA N -AU ST R A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I N E
Nyanwell Marko-Ciman Agoth at work
When the distraction of the new challenges is finally
Whether it is a mental health or a physical health issue,
stilled, those haunting memories from the past,
STTARS makes referrals to other specialist providers,
temporarily relegated to the subconscious, now
and ensures the best possible, appropriate treatment is
re-surface to disturb their seemingly tranquil world,
provided.
and fling many back to relive those hidden horrors and revive the long buried trauma.
Her staff of qualified counsellors tailor different approaches to meet the needs of individual clients, as,
The Survivors of Torture and Trauma Assistance and
says Linda, “Some people aren’t ready to share their
Rehabilitation Service (STTARS) is a non-government,
traumatic experiences straight away. They feel the need
not for profit organisation with no political or religious
to be like other new arrivals, but often have a really very
affiliations. Its primary mission is to assist people
difficult time. They get here feeling very optimistic, and
from a refugee and migrant background who have
feel like they are ready to take on the world because
experienced torture or have been traumatised as a result
they have escaped the worst of what happened to them.
of persecution, violence, war or unlawful imprisonment
They get jobs, kids, schools and so on, but then, at
prior to their arrival in Australia. STTARS has been
some later time the effects of that trauma will return.
providing these services in South Australia since 1991.
Everyone is different when that happens.”
SALT Magazine spoke with Linda Matthews, the
We asked Linda to identify the most common problems
Acting Director of STTARS, to find out more about the
she deals with and who is most affected. “It is mostly
organisation and its work.
the young, male and female, who find it difficult to
Linda, who has worked in various government departments and was the SA Equal Opportunity Commissioner for 14 years, was happy to share her experience with us. “I’m very interested in plight of refugees and asylum seekers and with my human rights
adjust. Often the young men have issues with the police, and we get referrals that way. For girls the issues can be self-destructive, and sometimes the parents’ response doesn’t make things any better. We also find that single women coming from Africa can be very isolated.”
background it was a good fit for me to come and do this
The organisation uses community capacity building
work” she said.
modules to help people connect, understand and find
According to Linda most of their work is on an individual face to face basis, supporting vulnerable people who have been victims of torture and traumas. The service provides individual counselling and also runs group sessions and social activities to improve the wellbeing of clients. “We have drumming groups, we have specific women’s group, sometimes we have young men of varying background, and sometimes we mix up the groups, they are not always just for people from a particular country because we see the value of putting people together.” She says the service is driven by the needs of the individuals concerned and the particular nature of their experience and their condition.
ISSUE F IV E
ways to support each other, as it is easy for trauma and torture victims to become socially isolated or lose community connection. Linda said she would like to continue to make STTARS a welcoming place for anyone who needs help and wants more people to access the services it provides. “We appreciate the involvement of many of South Australia’s diverse community groups,” she said, “They help to identify issues in the community and inform new arrivals about the service.” SALT Magazine applauds the work that STTARS does amongst the vulnerable members of our communities, and calls on our readers to ensure they spread the word to any of their acquaintances who would benefit from the services it provides.
15
NAMIBIA the final chapter by Tanja Rudd
It’s been 3 months since we returned to Adelaide, and sometimes I wonder if Namibia was just a dream. But our time there was a real rollercoaster, and ultimately one of the most rewarding decisions we have made as a family. There are so many organisations that offer opportunities for individuals to volunteer overseas and people with skills in just about every industry are required. We were fortunate enough that Matt secured employment through Australian Volunteers International (AVI), which provided living and rental allowances. Maybe compared to Australian standards these may have seemed low, yet we found they were more than enough to live well and afford safe and secure accommodation. The opportunities to develop professionally are huge. In many instances as a volunteer you may not have a whole group of senior managers or an executive leadership group to coach and mentor you, as many people would be accustomed to here in Australia. Yet, growth opportunities lie exactly in that fact. On most days you have to wear a number of hats which at times is like
“The lessons we have learnt from the people and projects we have worked in shall remain in our souls for a very long time.”
a nightmare but very rewarding from a professional perspective. The constant confrontation of emotions within and around yourself, allowed us to explore our own beliefs and attitudes. It has given us opportunities to talk to our children about gender, race and religious inequalities. It has allowed us to immerse ourselves into a new culture and learn, laugh, cry at times and feel disappointed.
NAMIBIA
Southern Africa
16/
A F RICA N -AU ST R A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I N E
The lessons we have learnt from the people and projects we have worked in shall remain in our souls for a very long time.
Would we do it all again? Yep, no doubt that we would! Returning to our “previous” life is a whole new ride in itself. It’s hard not to judge the amount of “waste,”
Each quarter we will send over proceeds (no admin expenses taken) to IWAN who will distribute all funds directly to both projects.
“disguised discrimination” and “worldly ignorance”
We would love SALT Magazine readers to become
that we now encounter. It’s also very hard to find
involved in our initiative, for instance by collecting
a balance again in our lives….wanting to still feel
bottles and cans at your office, at home or by getting
connected with the left behind projects and people
your local café or restaurant to donate their recycling!
while getting back into a daily routine.
For more info on the project please go onto Facebook
Because of that we started up our very own little
and like Recycle for Change Australia (https://www.
project, a South Australian based recycling project we
facebook.com/Recycleforchangeaustralia), and contact
call “Recycle for Change.”
us if you would like to support our work in Namibia.
We are establishing partnerships with businesses and
And finally we thank SALT for publishing our updates
friends who can support us with collecting recyclable
on our experience in Namibia. Through SALT I was
items such as bottles and cans and use the proceeds to
put in touch with a reader who visited Namibia after
transfer to worthwhile projects overseas. Given that
reading one of our articles and is now working closely
AU$1 is equivalent to Namibian$10, a few bottles can go
with us and our projects.
a long way to changing a child’s life.
Throughout the 13 months we spent in Namibia we
We will continue to support two organisations we
were able to raise close to N$70,000 which were spent
worked with in Namibia - one with a focus on early
on infrastructure, food or resources required by the
childhood development and the other supporting
projects we worked with. This would have not been
children with a disability. We have also formed
possible without the incredible support and exposure
a partnership with the International Women’s
we achieved via the magazine and social media.
Association of Namibia (IWAN) which has established governance processes to manage and distribute funds and working relationships with these two organisations.
And for anyone wondering if they can really make a difference in the world and in someone’s life? Yes you CAN…just make sure you drag your friends and family along on your journey.
Recycle
for change What difference can YOUR recycling make?
Recycle
for change
Recycle
ISSUE F IV E
10
=
1 loaf of bread
100
=
electricity and water FOR ONE WEEK
1000
=
monthly wage
FOR A CARER
17
IBRAHIM IDDRISU
0438 851 041
Cezarina Modi: one of many inspirational single mothers
Home Loan Specialist for the African Community
Home Loans // First Home Buyers My name is Ibrahim Iddrisu from AAA Mortgage Solutions. Over the last 15 years AAA Mortgage Solutions has helped thousands of Australians achieve their financial goals and dreams. As a mortgage broker I am here to help the African Community with their Finance and Home Loan needs. I have access to over 30 Bank and Non Bank Lenders, and can provide you with outstanding service. My goal is to assist you to buy, refinance and or consolidate debt and my service to you is Free.
Ibrahim Iddrisu
PH 08 8182 5555 E i.idrisu@aaams.com.au www.aaams.com.au Australian Credit Licence Number 385791 / Australian Credit Representative Number 416905
SINGLE MOTHERS
A shining light By Linda Liwewe
African Nations Cup Adelaide 2014
I was going to write a piece on single mothers in general, but my conversations with one special woman - encompassing tales from home, stories of immigration, assimilation and plain old-fashioned womanhood - led me to write her story as representative of many. Cezarina Modi arrived in Australia as a refugee with 7 kids in tow. She last saw her husband 12 years ago, and
17-19 October 2014
Burton Park 400 Waterloo Corner Road, Burton
has no news of him or his family and many attempts to locate him have proved futile. She presumes him to be dead. Back in South Sudan, Cezarina was a homemaker and her husband, a primary school teacher, was the family’s breadwinner.
18/
A F RICA N -AU ST R A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I N E
War in South Sudan forced Cezarina to flee to Cairo,
appointments and enrolling herself and her children in
Egypt, and, as might be expected in a war zone,
school. She spent a year studying English at Thebarton
arranging the trip was a bureaucratic nightmare.
Senior College, to the stage where she can now
Eventually however, the family found themselves in
understand spoken English but has difficulty speaking
Egypt where life as a refugee was particularly difficult,
or writing fluently. She notes however that this difficulty
with income only coming from the irregular cleaning
is easily taken care of as translators are usually available
jobs she managed to find. The large community of
at public facilities.
South Sudanese in Cairo provided a source of cheap labour, and finding jobs was not easy, particularly for men. However women had better luck with cleaning and domestic work.
Her life continues to revolve around her children and is plagued by the normal fears and challenges of any mother who has fought to secure a safe future for her family. To add to her troubles she suffers from diabetes
They lived in Egypt for 4 ½ years, which Cezarina does
and a gum infection in an already ailing body causing
not remember with fondness.
her to stop her work as a cleaner at the Adelaide Oval. She now depends entirely on Centrelink payments and
As one who finds so much to complain about, I was humbled by her simple story of perseverance
remains at home to mother her younger children, one of whom has a disability. While she has no family here, she has made friends amongst Adelaide’s South Sudanese community. If I’m honest with myself, the fairy tale ending that I envisaged did not materialise.
She said that working in the houses of more prosperous
While Cezarina’s story proves that Australia can provide
families was wearing on her spirit and her strength. She
opportunities for single mothers to thrive, success
describes the need to ‘stay quiet’ to show subservience,
cannot only be measured in the number of refugees
which she endured for the sake of retaining employment
who manage to find themselves in gainful, fulfilling
and wages varied according to the temperament of those
employment or at university. It can also come to those
for whom she worked.
who, despite the changes and the challenges, have
The Modi children continued their schooling in Egypt where the curriculum was taught in Arabic at a school
managed to retain the simple essence of the African people - togetherness.
run by the Christian Church where the education was
My hope is that Cezarina Modi will eventually achieve
free.
her dreams and her destiny. As a mother, this would
At last, on the whim of a UNHCR bureaucrat, in an arbitrary process which may have resulted in settlement in America, Canada or even Finland, the family was granted entry to Australia. Anglicare in Port Adelaide provided their first home and with absolutely no
see her children enjoying prosperity and realising their potential because of the opportunities she has strived to give them. She will continue to live her dreams through them, ensuring they take full advantage of all that this country can offer them.
comprehension of the English language or knowledge of
As one who finds so much to complain about, I was
western culture the Modi’s embarked on their new life.
humbled by her simple story of perseverance.
With the aid of a translator, a social worker and financial support, Cezarina managed to navigate the trials of western life, including shopping, doctor’s
ISSUE F IV E
19
Zambian born candidate in SA local government elections In November 2014 South Australians in 189 council areas will be voting to fill 629 positions in local council elections, for which a record number of 1261 candidates are standing. Among these hopefuls is Zambian born Nkweto Nkamba, who is contesting in the Port Adelaide Enfield Council area, Parks Ward.
He hopes to tackle these activities by installing cameras
Since migrating to Australia as a student, Nkweto (or
community. There are really nice people out there, who
NK as he likes to be called) has always wanted to show his gratitude and contribute something positive to a country that has given him so much. After attempting the state elections for a seat in the SA House of Assembly in March this year, he has now turned his focus to local government.
If elected, NK will have 3 main areas of focus – public safety and security; Careful maintenance of public places & streets; and improvement of local sporting facilities.
“I’ll work towards improving sporting facilities for the locals,’ he says, “…. see if leasing fees can be reduced to allow more young people to have better access to team sports, and try to give them direction and keep them out of trouble” NK’s research shows local residents are concerned over hoon driving, illegal dumping and car break-ins in their neighbourhoods. Recent police reports reveal thefts and break-ins to vehicles are rife in the Port Adelaide Enfield area, and higher than in any other council district.
20/
A F RICA N -AU ST R A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I N E
in hot spot areas and will work with fellow councillors and the local Member of Parliament to comprehensively address the issues which cause this behaviour. As for his prospects in the election, NK is very optimistic. “I believe I stand a good chance even with the level of competition this time as I've had a good response and reception from the Port Adelaide Enfield have shown me a lot of goodwill, and this has given me some confidence,” he says. “My main strategy for this election is to get my message to as many people as possible, to tell them why I am running, and to share my vision of how I can best serve them. I really appreciate this opportunity to do that through SALT Magazine.”
Honouring Festus Mogae FORMER PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF BOTSWANA Murdoch University, a leading Australian research organisation with strong research commitment to, and capacity building in the continent of Africa, has bestowed its highest honour on an award-winning African politician who played a significant role in the fight against the spread of HIV in Africa. His Excellency Mr Festus Mogae, who was President of the Republic of Botswana until 2008, was awarded a Doctorate of the University at Murdoch’s graduation ceremony on 10 September. This prestigious honour is being added to his many other achievements including winning the Mo Ibrahim Prize for achievement in African Leadership and being awarded the Grand Cross of the Legion d’honneur of the French Government. Mr Mogae, who was sworn in as the President of Botswana in 1999, ensured his country's continued stability and prosperity through careful management of mineral resources and diversifying the economy to protect the region’s natural resources and environment. One of his greatest achievements is his fight against HIV/Aids in his country where nearly 25 per cent of all adults are infected with the disease. Under his leadership, Botswana introduced one of the most comprehensive and effective HIV treatment
“It is indeed a great privilege to have H.E. Festus Mogae at our campus to receive an honorary doctorate. He is a leader of leaders in Africa. His example is an inspiration to our students and his engagement with our academic staff enriches our research activities on the African continent." PROFESSOR BENJAMIN REILLY DEAN OF THE SIR WALTER MURDOCH SCHOOL OF PUBLIC POLICY AND INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS.
programs in Africa. Transmission of HIV from infected mothers to their newborn babies has been brought down to just four per cent.
As part of his visit to Murdoch University, Mr Mogae
Mr Mogae is currently Special Envoy to the UN
such as Development, Sustainability, Public Policy &
Secretary General on Climate Change, alternate governor for the International Monetary Fund, and Member of the Global Coalition for Africa.
ISSUE F IV E
also engaged with students from various study areas, Governance. Over 85 students were invited to meet the former President for a morning of networking and inspirational conversation on leadership.
21
Hey Mama, what’s that big grey thing with a long nose? by Mwalusi
We Australian types sometimes smile at the expectations of our European friends when they come here to visit. As, wide eyed on the trip from the airport, whether because of jet lag or eager anticipation, they scrutinise the
Because dear, doubting reader – fuelled by such past
urban landscape for... KANGAROOS.
Africa! We think the whole of Africa is teeming
Unfortunately because of a TV show Skippy – the Bush
other, hiding from each other, or, in the less scientific
Kangaroo (that testament to Australian actors, directors and producers), which somehow or other is being broadcast somewhere in the civilised world at any given time of the day or night or any time in between. Yep, because of Skippy, everyone knows Australian suburban streets are awash with kangaroos - happily hopping around; solving crimes, saving that annoying Sonny child from weekly fates worse than death; telephoning police to report suspicious characters; and making that curious Hannibal Lecter chirping / sucking sound that no kangaroo worth its salt could ever make. So it is with some embarrassment that we, urbanised locals, have to take our visitors to the zoo to see our national symbol. If we feel extra generous, and if they want a real close up look, we drive them a couple of hundred kilometres out of our concrete canyons, and show them some roadkill – a real example of environmental culture clash – where the soft and furry Skippy’s of this world meet the hard, unyielding bull bars of Mack trucks. There, if our visitors are really lucky, we might even find something, reasonably fresh, reasonably recognisable as a Skippy, and with enough bones reasonably intact to be propped against a fence post so they can take a selfie with it. Otherwise, like the remaining 98% of Australians who live in metropolitan bliss around Australia’s coastline, our visitors will never see a mob of truly wild, truly free Big Reds or Western Greys bounding through mist wreathed valleys and eucalypt covered highlands. So why then, is an overpaid, under-talented TV kangaroo called Skippy getting a mention in this African- Australian magazine which claims to act as a platform to provide an African perspective on Australian topics?
22/
A F RICA N -AU ST R A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I N E
TV gems as Hatari, Wild at Heart and anything with David Attenborough in it - an Australian’s perspective suffers from the same misdirected notions about with exotic creatures, eating each other, chasing each shows, trampling down washing lines and poking their collective heads through the kitchen window for the amusement of the starched khaki clad occupants inside. In that wild and savage land, anyone mad enough to set foot outside their door is going to be eaten by a buffalo, mauled by a mongoose (that’s having a rest from killing cobras), or chased by an elephant that weighs more than 5 family cars – whatever that means. So what then is the reality? Wikipedia tells us continental Africa has an area of 30.2 million km² and a population of 1.111 billion (give or take a few latecomers). In comparison Australia has 23 million people crammed into an area of around 7.7 million km². From that, simple mathematics tells us Africa has 0.03 people per square km compared to Australia’s 0.33, and having established that the average Aussie hasn’t seen a wild kangaroo, the odds are stacked against the average thinly-stretched African Joe or Jenny ever seeing anything wilder than their pet dog waiting for its dinner. Add to the equation that most of Africa’s animals are now contained within National Parks and Reserves (huge and spacious they may be, but by any other name are open range zoos), and most are located well away from major population areas, the chances of bumping into the odd hippo on the way to the local supermarket are very slim indeed. And, while most National Parks have a two-tier scale of entry fees for tourist visitors and citizens, the cost for an average ‘local’ family to visit a park can be prohibitive – and that without even considering costs of travel, accommodation, guides and lion repellent cream. Just take a look at the African ‘wild life’ videos on You-Tube.
My Journey by Connie Fiala Mmadike
On soft green grass And harsh roads I’ve trod Tripping and falling But on I plod
You won’t need two hands to count the number of films posted by locals, nor for that matter, to count the number of locals (who aren’t guides or drivers) who appear in them. So what do our travels and our trolling through the social media tell us about darkest Africa and the weird and wonderful creatures that live there. The Serengetti has the greatest concentration of wild life and Hi-Ace tourist buses in the world. The average cheetah family consists of an overworked mother, two naughty cubs and a bloke in a Toyota
I’ve seen them tame I’ve seen them meek I’ve seen the dangers that some seek I’ve seen cats curled up and bask in the sun I’ve learnt to walk through my life, not run Old cars, spicy food, slept in houses so grand Bringing souvenirs in my mind, not many in my hand I’ve been to the Mediterranean And looked out to that Sea Learnt languages, crossed borders My passport set me free
Landcruiser. Kruger National Park is full of Americanus tourisists who have been cast out of the family herd and wander the world using their mating call of ‘Ohmygad’ to attract similar of the species. Buffalo should stay away from Japanese tourists because there are always about 300 of them around to watch it being eaten by lions. On the other hand buffalo should always stay close to
I’ve lived in Bonnie Scotland I’ve looked for Nessie in that Loch So much fun I had along the way How I’d love to turn back the clock My journey now is different Still learning along the way Admiring this tapestry I weaved It will never, ever fray
David Attenborough because they always escape from lions when he is around. Hyena’s need love too! But for all that, “Wild Africa” remains, but sadly, like a globally warmed iceberg, this unfenced Disneyland is getting smaller by the day. As one who has walked the savannah plains, been pierced by acacia thorns, proudly sweated through the fever of malaria, and has heard the cough of a lion through the canvas wall of my tent, I can only say it was an honour and a privilege. So go there – see it – share it – and cherish it….for, all too soon, it may be far too late.
ISSUE F IV E
FRom the author As far back as I can remember, I have always loved the Arts. But being the passionate Pisces and proverbial dreamer that I am, Poetry beckoned! My family named me Zingara (Gypsy) from a very young age... unbeknown to us all that travel would play an integral role in my life. It was whilst living in Europe 17 years ago that I met my Nigerian husband. Today we live in the multicultural western suburbs with our 3 beautiful daughters. You can purchase Connie’s book ‘the Wrongs and The Write’ at the following locations: Dymocks Books Glenelg Stylehaus Boutique, Mile End Empress Homewares, Hyde Park Garden Party, Myrtle Bank Forza Continental, Underdale My House and Home, Hyde Park
23
PHOTO: Kirstie Mcconnell
24/
A F RICA N -AU ST R A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I N E
RECI
STIRRING THE POT
SUDAN
PE
Mosgha & Tilapia Fish Serves 4
In this issue we continue our journey looking for palatable African dishes to share with our readers.
SALAD INGREDIENTS
FISH INGREDIENTS
Red Capsicum
Talapia fish
Green Capsicum
Parsley leaves
in Sudan and lived in Syria before migrating to
Eggplant
Garlic
Australia. She was delighted to share one of her
Chilli flakes
Dill
favourite recipes with SALT Magazine – Fried fish
Lemon Juice
Red Onions
Olive Oil
Olive Oil
The main player in this dish is ‘Tilapia’ - a very
Red Onion
Tomato Paste
popular fish in Africa that is widely accessible in
Vegeta stock powder
Vegeta stock powder
Salt & peppper to taste
Lemon Juice
This time we met Sunday Golda who was born
and Mosgha, a spiced eggplant and capsicum salad.
many countries. In Australia, you mostly find it in the freezer at various Asian or African grocery
Salt & Pepper to taste
stores. Sunday said her cooking style is influenced by both her Sudanese culture as well as her
METHOD 1. Clean and gut fish. Traditionally the head is left but
upbringing in Syria. Indeed it was a family favourite as we were happily greeted by her young son and daughter when we dropped in and they were keen to dig in and eat (after we photographed).
if you would prefer, you can fillet fish to remove head and bones. 2. Season fish with parsley, garlic, dill, diced red onions, tomato paste, vegeta stock powder, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Refrigerate overnight. 3. Remove fish from fridge and coat with plain flour, then fry on both sides using a generous amount of olive oil. 4. To prepare Mosgha, combine capsicum, eggplant, red onion, chilli flakes, lemon juice, vegeta stock powder in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste and coat in a generous amount of oil. 5. Turn ingredients onto a baking tray and bake for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are soft. 6. Serve with a garden salad and crusty bread!
The Chef
by Sunday This delightful dish was prepared Sudan. Golda who originally came from ISSUE F IV E
25
and the Migrant Resource Centre of SA
Festival Centre Banquet Room, Adelaide
National Executive Council (NEC) (Consisting of founding members and State and Territory Chairperson/ President of African Communities Councils) PRESIDENT Dr Joseph Masika OAM (SA) VICE PRESIDENT Edward Solo (President, NT African Community Council) SECRETARY Sharon Orapeleng (QLD) ASSISTANT SECRETARY Ruth Sims (WA) TREASURER Dr Chris Marunda (TAS) DEPUTY TREASURER Makka Krubally (President, NSW African Community Council) PUBLIC RELATIONS Abeselom Nega (VIC) MEMBERS Elijah Buol (President, QLD African Community Council) Mabok Marial (Chairperson, SA, African Community Council) John Lenga (President, TAS, African Community Council) Dr Kiros Hiruy (TAS) Ebenezer Banful (ACT)
26/
Fe
2014
Celebrating
FACCA Inc
In
4 - 6 DECEMBER
c
African Communities Council SA
Australi a in
PROUDLY CO-HOSTED BY THE
s il
n of Afr tio ic ra an e d
nities Co mmu un Co c
the Journey NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE FEDERATION OF AFRICAN COMMUNITIES COUNCILS IN AUSTRALIA
The Federation of African Communities Councils in Australia (FACCA) was recently established in response to the growing need for a strong and united national African-Australian umbrella organisation with a strong, united and cohesive voice. The International Decade of People of African Decent, declared by the United Nations on 23 December 2013 will formally begin in January 2015. This milestone conference will celebrate the journey that African Australians have taken in their migration, settlement and integration into Australian society during the last two decades. For many, and particularly those who have arrived as humanitarian entrants, this has required overcoming great adversity in order to embrace a safer, more harmonious and hopeful future for themselves and their children. The conference will also acknowledge the significant contribution that African Australians have made to the economic, cultural and social development of Australia in a breadth of areas including but not limited to business, education, medical and health sciences, Australian-African relations, artistic and cultural enterprise. For additional information about the conference and registration, please contact the Conference Organisers: Federation of African Communities Council in Australia 59 King William Street Adelaide E facca@mrcsa.com.au Ph: (08) 8217 9500 www.facebook.com/FACCA.Incorporated
A F RICA N -AU ST R A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I N E
Friendly match at Woodville - Sierra Stars v Burundi
Adelaide’s 2014 African Nations Cup African-Australian soccer teams in South Australia are gearing up for the annual African Nations Cup tournament organised by the African Communities Council of South Australia (ACCSA), with the defending champion, South Sudan, having many contenders to overcome if they want to repeat last year’s win.
Nations Cup and can’t wait to get a better result than
We spoke with Albert Barrie, the Sierra Stars coach,
“If the community was there to give us their support we
about his team’s preparation for the upcoming tournament and their performance in Division 4 of the SA Amateur League. It was their first season in the League, and to date they remain the only African team registered. Albert is optimistic that next season his team will fare better than in the one just completed. “We missed two of our games and ended up in 5th position but it was a great performance by the boys, and they were all turning up for training on time, ” he said, “We are pumped up and ready to go in the African
ISSUE F IV E
last year. We are playing a lot of friendlies to help fix our problems before we go to the nations cup.” In any competitive sport, teams need both financial as well as moral support, and the Sierra Stars are no exception. Albert said they have to finance themselves for team uniforms, travel and so on, and this is a big challenge for some players who are students.
can make a big change with these boys,” Albert asserts. “Soccer is good for young people as it keeps them busy and gives them something to do. As a coach I try my best to engage our boys and stop them getting involved with problems out on the streets” SALT Magazine wishes the Sierra Stars and all the other teams good luck in the tournament. We will share the highlights with our readers, and hope all members of Adelaide’s African community will show their support and encouragement to their own teams.
27
1
2
through the SALT Magazine
lens
3 4
5
6
9
10
11
7
8 13
1. Mondli Makhoba & Kassim at Unmasked African Festival, Adelaide 2. Traditional performance by the Rwandan cultural group at Unmasked African Festival, Adelaide 3. Liberian Youth Group performance at Unmasked African Festival, Adelaide 4. Jean-Marc Agbogba and Sun of Africa dance group at Unmasked African Festival, Adelaide 5. Bongo, Emily & Adams at Unmasked African Festival, Adelaide 6. Igbo cultural performers at Unmasked African Festival, Adelaide 7. Backstage at Face of Africa Australia, Perth PHOTO: Megan King Photography
14
8. The Face of Africa Australia 2014 Hosts (MCs Melissa and Slim) PHOTO: Megan King Photography 9. Liesse Kezimana, 2014 winner of Face of Africa Australia with Tracey Nadia, Perth PHOTO: Megan King Photography 10. Liesse Kezimana, 2014 winner of Face of Africa Australia, Perth PHOTO: Megan King Photography 11. Backstage at Face of Africa Australia, Perth PHOTO: Megan King Photography 12. Guests at Face of Africa Australia, Perth PHOTO: Hypercaptures 13. The guests and Event Manager Yolander Chivambe (3rd from right) at Face of Africa Australia, Perth PHOTO: Hypercaptures 14. Thando Sikwila and Rumbie Mudzengi Face of Africa Australia PHOTO: Hypercaptures
28/
A F RICA N -AU ST R A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I N E
12
15
18
16
17
19
20
21
15. Guests at Face of Africa Australia, Perth PHOTO: Lightscape
22
16. Guests at Face of Africa Australia, Perth PHOTO: Lightscape 17. 1st Runner up Gerlie Siki (L) with Lizzy Emil at Face of Africa Australia, Perth PHOTO: Megan King Photography 18. Moore Black and the Organic Roots at the Iri Ji Festival, Adelaide PHOTO: Jamel McSween 19. Face of Africa Australia, Perth PHOTO: Megan King Photography
23
20. Traditional performance at the Iri Ji Festival, Adelaide PHOTO: Jamel McSween
24
25
21. Jamel McSween & Connie Mmadike at the Iri Ji Festival, Adelaide 22. Traditional performance at the Iri Ji Festival, Adelaide PHOTO: Jamel McSween 23. Uju Ojimba and her 2 daughters Chiderah & Chinonye at the Iri Ji Festival, Adelaide PHOTO: Jamel McSween 24. Chigozi Okoro speaking at the Iri Ji Festival, Adelaide PHOTO: Jamel McSween 25. Fatu Sam, Perth based upcoming actress, at the Afro Australia Music & Movie Awards in Sydney
26
27
26. Vivicia Fox at the Afro Australia Music & Movie Awards in Sydney PHOTO: isaBelle 27. Daniel Okoduwa, President & Founder of the Afro Australia Music & Movie Awards 28. Rodney 'O' (KIIS FM) at the Afro Australia Music & Movie Awards in Sydney PHOTO: isaBelle 29. Anton Enus at the Afro Australia Music & Movie Awards in Sydney PHOTO: isaBelle
28
30. DJ Charly Templar at the Afro Australia Music & Movie Awards in Sydney PHOTO: isaBelle 31. (l-r) Adjei Nuamah, John Lido, Pascal Atuma (Hollywood Based Filmmaker), Emmanuel Robert and King B Fine (Sydney based Reggae Artist) at the Afro Australia Music & Movie Awards in Sydney PHOTO: isaBelle
30
31
29
ISSUE F IV E
29
s il
ion of Afri at ca r n de
nities Co mmu un o C c
Australi a in
In
c
FACCA Inc
Fe
Celebrating
the Journey NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE FEDERATION OF AFRICAN COMMUNITIES COUNCILS IN AUSTRALIA PROUDLY CO-HOSTED BY THE African Communities Council SA and the Migrant Resource Centre of SA
4 - 6 DECEMBER 2014 Festival Centre Banquet Room, Adelaide
For additional information about the conference and registration, please contact the Conference Organisers: Federation of African Communities Council in Australia 59 King William Street Adelaide E facca@mrcsa.com.au Ph: (08) 8217 9500 www.facebook.com/FACCA.Incorporated
30/
A F RICA N -AU ST R A L I A N N EW S MAG A Z I N E