Displacement is not just a physical journey—it is an emotional and psychological experience that reshapes lives, perspectives, and destinies. As a refugee, I have lived through the struggles, the uncertainty, and the resilience that define the refugee experience. This is why I stand, speak, and advocate—not as an outsider, but as one of them. My voice is not raised in opposition, but in hope, calling for solutions that uplift and empower displaced communities.
Why Refugee-Led Advocacy Matters
Refugees are often spoken about, but not enough are given the platform to speak for themselves. This gap in representation fuels policies and interventions that sometimes miss the core realities of refugee life. When refugees lead advocacy efforts, we bring lived experiences to the table, ensuring that policies, aid programs, and interventions are rooted in real needs rather than assumptions.
At The Refugee Voice, our mission is to amplify these voices—to ensure that refugees are not just beneficiaries but active participants in shaping their own futures. We believe in solutions driven by those who understand the challenges firsthand. Whether it’s livelihood programs, education, healthcare, or rights advocacy, refugee leadership must be at the center of decision-making processes.
A Call for Collaboration
To community-based organizations (CBOs), government agencies, and international NGOs (INGOs): this is an invitation to partnership. Our advocacy is not a challenge to existing structures but a call to work together for greater impact. Refugee-led initiatives are already making a difference—what they need is support, recognition, and inclusion in broader development frameworks.
For those who employ individuals like me—refugees who have taken on the responsibility of advocacy—let our dedication to this cause not be seen as a conflict of interest. Instead, let it inspire a shared commitment to building a world where refugees are seen, heard, and supported.
Turning Displacement into Transformation
Being a refugee should not mean being trapped in a cycle of dependency. With the right opportunities, displacement can become a journey of transformation—one where skills are developed, communities are empowered, and futures are rebuilt.
At The Refugee Voice, we envision a future where refugees are at the forefront of change, leading efforts that benefit not just their own communities but the world at large. The solutions we seek are not impossible—they are within reach if we come together in collaboration, mutual respect, and shared responsibility.
Let us move beyond seeing refugees as statistics and start recognizing them as partners in building a better future. Together, we can turn displacement into empowerment and create a world where every refugee has a voice that matters.
By Likambo Isaac Kangu
Executive Director, The Refugee Voice
