Awel Aweng

I remember the first time I found my voice. I was tired of other people thinking they knew what my issues were. I knew we had to fight our own fight. And that;s when the journey started. Since 2015 I have been a lead member of New Change, a group of young African women pushing for social change. I've been invited to the International Society for Community Research and Action conference in Ottawa, Canada next month. This opportunity would allow me to share how to build a platform to inspire young people to speak up, and have New Change's voice elevated to an international level.

WHAT HAVE WE DONE SO FAR?

New Change is a group of young African-Australian women using community arts as a force for social change. Our aim is to empower, motivate and educate young women to achieve self-confidence and embrace their individuality. We have tackled different topics of importance in the South Sudanese community including sexual health and respectful relationships, challenging race-based discrimination, supporting good mental health and gender equity.  Following our video we have spoken to the media, in schools and at the Federal Inquiry into Migration Outcomes to increase awareness and ensure our voices are heard.  We are currently developing a series of short poetic documentary pieces entitled Mind Body Soul. 

New Change stands up for the South Sudanese community 

Flights to Ottawa, Canada –  $1900 

Food - $500 

Conference Rego - $150 

Accommodation – $800

Travel insurance - $200

Transport - $350

Since Australia is far away from the rest of the world it is difficult for the voices of South-Sudanese young women living in Australia to be heard internationally. This conference could support and share the amazing and innovative work young African women are doing locally - and inspire others to do the same!