Diaspora in Development

In this episode of Diaspora in Development, we sit down with Andhira Yousef, an independent researcher dedicated to elevating refugee-led research in East Africa. With collaborations spanning Oxford University’s Refugee Hub, Columbia University, and ODI, Andhira has worked extensively on documenting grassroots refugee-led organizations and improving energy access in Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda. She shares insights on how community-driven research shapes impactful policies and programs, emphasizing the need for genuine participation over tokenization Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on how the power of meaningful engagement can transform the refugee experience.

In this episode we speak to Themrise Khan, an independent analyst, writer and researcher. Her insight challenges much of the conventional wisdom surrounding foreign aid. Does it have the impact that we’d like or is it perpetuating and supporting existing infrastructure issues? From post-World War II reconstruction efforts to the significant financial aid given to Pakistan after 9/11, we unravel the complex relationship between development aid and foreign policy. Themrise looks at some of the critical differences between development and humanitarian aid, drawing forth her own and many other women’s experiences of working i n international development-based roles. From the political to the personal, through our reflections, we uncover some of the highs and lows of working international development. From the inspiring legacy of humanitarians like Molana Abdul Sattar Edhi to the frustrations of stalled progress. This interview takes a hard look at migration, a constant feature of our headlines, and dissects the economic motivations of aid and the often hostile reception migrants face in host countries. For the diaspora, the episode emphasize responsible engagement and the importance of supporting their homelands thoughtfully. The opinions shared on this forum are the opinions of the individuals and are not the opinions of the organizations and institutes that they work for. You can find Themrise Khan Youtube channel here : https://www.youtube.com/@themrisetalks [https://www.youtube.com/@themrisetalks]

We speak to Dr. Bashair Ahmed about her career and Humanitarian Organization Shabaka. We delve into the role of diaspora engagement in development and humanitarian response. Dr. Ahmed has an illustrious career having worked with United Nations agencies and international organizations focused on fragile and conflict-affected countries. Dr. Ahmed has consulted on a wide range of migration and diaspora initiatives, including protecting irregular migrants; the development of e-trainings on humanitarian principles for diaspora organizations; and guiding diaspora engagement in development and humanitarian response. Bashair holds a doctorate in Migration Studies from the University of Sussex, where she is also currently a Research Associate, Find more about Shabaka here: https://shabaka.org/ [https://shabaka.org/]

In honor of Caribbean Heritage, we speak to trailblazer Dr. Adelle Thomas Adaptation Lead at the Natural Resources Defense Council, and Vice Chair of Working Group II for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Adelle made history by becoming the first English-speaking Caribbean scientist and the First Female Caribbean Scientist to be elected to the panel.  Adelle took a pragmatic approach to her studies, which led her to be a leading voice on the climate challenges facing the Caribbean. We apologize this episode has some sound issues that could not be addressed in editing.

In honor of Haitian Heritage Month and Haitian Flag Day, Diaspora in Development brings you something different! We speak to singer-songwriter Sherlee Skai about the role artists can play in shedding light on injustices at home or to their communities worldwide. Born and raised in Haiti, Sherlee Skai's journey into the world of music began at a young age. Surrounded by the rich tapestry of Haitian culture and folklore, she was captivated by the rhythmic beats of traditional music and the soul-stirring melodies of jazz and soul. Drawing inspiration from her cultural heritage, Sherlee embarked on a musical odyssey that would shape her identity as an artist, activist, and educator. Fuelled by a passion for social justice and equality, Sherlee Skai emerged as a powerful voice for change within her community and beyond. Drawing upon her own experiences as a Haitian woman navigating the complexities of identity and belonging, she used her platform as an artist to shed light on the struggles and triumphs of the marginalized. Through her music and activism, Sherlee Skai became a tireless advocate for the underprivileged, challenging societal norms and advocating for greater inclusivity, representation, and empowerment. You can listen to Sherlee's music on her YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUVbOBK7lPqrV7_I748ToYw and on Spotify