Blog post by Ramazani Amissi Swedi, Youth Advocate and Refugee Rights Champion
As a refugee from DR Congo living in Dzaleka Camp, Malawi, I have seen the challenges of displacement firsthand. But I have also witnessed resilience, strength, and hope. My experience as Youth Representative under Plan International Malawi’s Child Parliament and Youth Advisory Panel (YAP) fueled my passion for refugee rights and youth engagement in leadership.
“Refugees are not just beneficiaries; we’re stakeholders with solutions,” I often say. I’m driven by a mission: to amplify refugee voices and ensure they’re valued in decision-making processes. I’m proud to work with organizations like Plan International Malawi and the Movement for Community Led Development, inspired by role models like Yewo Gondwe, MCLD Global Youth Task Force Coordinator.
I believe we need to shift from charity to justice. Refugees deserve to lead, not just be led. My work focuses on empowering refugee youth to take leadership roles, driving change in their communities.As a refugee, I have learned that our voices matter. “It’s time not to be heard, but to lead, and to shape our own futures,” I urge. Let’s work together to create a world where refugee voices are valued, and youth drive change.