Showcase Explores Refugee Experience

Students in Professor Cyndi Moolekamp’s course, Refugees as Teachers, will present their work during “The Refugee Experience: Interactive Student Showcase,” from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 5, in Cleary Family Auditorium.

Throughout the semester, students have learned about Sudanese refugees living in rural Kenya, including the challenges they face while living in often overcrowded camps, the near impossibility of trying to resettle, and the bias and victimization they often face in the media. Through lectures and talks, students also learned a more important lesson: that despite these obstacles, refugees respond with resilience, starting their own businesses and building community.

In October, Mercy Akout, a refugee, singer, songwriter, and activist, joined the class via WhatsApp from Dadaab, one of the world’s largest refugee camps.

“The class had the unique opportunity to hear an inspiring and powerful glimpse into Mercy’s personal journey of survival, resilience, and triumph,” Moolekamp said.

Born in South Sudan, Akout fled her home country at a young age to escape the war. She would later need to leave again, this time to escapea forced child marriage. After embarking on a perilous journey to safety, she found refuge in a camp, Dadaab, that has since become her home. Despite the challenges of refugee life and a culture that oppresses women making their own choices, , Akout refused to let adversity define her. She channeled her experiences into songwriting and activism, rising to prominence as a music video star and eventually sharing her story on the international stage as a TED Talk speaker.

During Akout’s talk, students had the chance to ask questions and gain insight into Akout’s lived experience as a refugee. Questions ranged from her current work as a human rights advocate to her musical interests, to day to day life in the camp. She even shared live video of the camp, showing that her home is a makeshift tarp shelter. Despite living in a tent, she continues to write and produce music with very limited equipment and resources.

Akout’s story is one of many the students experienced over the course of the semester. During the showcase, students will present their knowledge through interactive, engaging activities and games. Somali food and drink will also be served.