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In the Shabelle IDP Camp in Somalia, online distance learner Luqman Yasin (MSc International Development) facilitated sessions with two groups of displaced individuals that revealed the strength of unity in the community. One group was market vendors and the other young people who attend school. Participants shared stories of mutual care and support, underscoring the vital role these actions play in their lives.

“Community is the shoulder we lean on when the world feels heavy… When we arrived at the IDP camp, it was women from the host village who brought us our first meal. I didn’t know their names, but I knew they were sisters.” 

Amina, participant

“I didn’t know I had strength until I saw it mirrored in my neighbour. When she kept

going, I did too. That’s the power of togetherness.”

Hodan, participant

“Sometimes all you need is someone to listen. Our camp leader never had money, but he had time. That’s the real superpower: presence.”

Mohamed, participant

Sessions in Nigeria: Supporting women and adolescents

In Nigeria, online distance learner Saadatu Sulaiman (MSc Global Food Security and Nutrition) led discussions in a refugee camp for two groups; women 18 to 49 years old, and adolescents 12 to 17 years old.

Through storytelling and open dialogue, the women emphasised their roles within their communities. From supporting each other during childbirth to tackling daily challenges, these women embody resilience and communal responsibility.

“Community means not going through pain alone. When one of us is in labour, we are all there with her like family.”

Session participant

In the session for adolescents, education systems were recognised as an important topic. They expressed concern about the shortage of teachers in schools and shared how they had organised themselves into small study groups to support one another.

"We help each other understand lessons because most times no teacher comes. But we still want to learn.” 

Session participant

The discussions also involved leaders from within the camp, who shared how external support helped improve camp life and expressed gratitude that the adolescents were included in the discussions that affect them.

In Uganda, online distance learner Derrick Byamungu (MSc Global Challenges) focused on empowering young refugees in Kyaka II Refugee Settlement. The sessions provided a platform for youth and community members to voice their experiences and aspirations, aiming to identify barriers and opportunities within existing support systems.

Discussions highlighted how, at times, some felt left out of the decision-making process that affects them, and how there is a lack of access to utilise their education and skills.

There were also positive outcomes from discussions, such as the support they offered each other through mutual hardships, primarily through faith groups, activities, sports and peer help.

Participants engaged in creative exercises reflecting their vision of community. Words like ‘Home,’ ‘Strength,’ ‘Love,’ ‘Unity,’ and ‘Hope’ were shared on a ‘Community Wall’, demonstrating the desire for belonging and empowerment.

Despite challenges, the participants showed remarkable resilience, while highlighting the need for supportive structures and inclusive dialogues that amplify refugee voices.