Join us to celebrate Refugee Week with guest speaker Abang Anade Othow, traditional African food, interactive drumming, a live band and dancing.

Abang, a Refugee Council of Australia ambassador, educator, mentor and entrepreneur, will share her lived experience in finding freedom. She is a true survivor. Born in Sudan, Abang fled to Ethiopia and then Kenya with her father when she was just 5 years old, due to civil unrest. She was separated from her mother, siblings and later her father.

After spending most of her early years away from her parents and in refugee camps, Abang was granted a refugee visa to come to Australia.

She arrived in Sydney alone, with no family at the age of 17 and initially lived in a women’s shelter. It was during these early days that she was discovered by a modeling agent and went on to work internationally which allowed her to support herself financially.

Following her true passion for teaching, Abang began her studies and completed a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Teaching.

Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to meet Abang and hear her story. Learn about her experience of displacement and family separation, and her determination and ability to succeed and utilise her experiences to help others.

Then enjoy live music from the talented Mr Simba Mushete and his 7-piece band, Echoes of African Music. Youth dance group, Alke, will perform traditional African dances accompanied by African drumming led by Sydney artist and performer, Lucky Lartey.

Join in the fun on your own drum and collaborate on a painting with Refugee Art Project.

You’ll also get the chance to sample food from different cultures including African food made by Parliament on King and Afro Food Feast.

Bookings essential.

We aim to present inclusive and accessible events. If you have any particular access or communication needs, please contact Bishop Laryea, community service worker on 02 8374 6310 or email blaryea@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au.