Afsana Jiwani: Championing Dialogue for Migrant Communities

Afsana Jiwani, a dedicated KAICIID Fellow, has created waves of impact with her inspiring initiative, Migrants Matter, a project that embodies the spirit of inclusion and dialogue. Living in Portugal as a migrant herself, Afsana envisioned a space where migrant voices from diverse corners of the world; India, Pakistan, Germany, Russia, the USA, Angola, and others, could unite to share stories, confront challenges, and chart a collective path forward.

This initiative wasn’t just about discussions; it was about fostering empathy, building networks, and empowering migrant communities to contribute meaningfully to their host societies.

From Stories to Solutions: A Unique Approach

The Migrants Matter initiative brought together participants from diverse backgrounds, ranging from India, Pakistan, Germany, and the USA to Angola and Russia. This vibrant mix of individuals, aged 17 to 45, came together to share their migration journeys. The storytelling sessions were transformative. Using activities like Push, Pull, and Purpose (PPP) activity, where participants shared why they had chosen Portugal as their new home, exploring the factors that pushed them from their homelands, pulled them to Portugal, and the purpose driving their migration. This opening created a safe and empathetic environment for participants to speak their truth.

The dialogue deepened during the "I Agree or Disagree" activity, where statements about migration sparked spirited discussions. Through this, participants uncovered shared struggles and celebrated collective resilience, paving the way for collaborative ideas. The result? A resounding agreement that change requires not only continued dialogue but also actionable calls to policymakers for reforms in areas like healthcare, education, and employment opportunities for migrants.

The Ripple Effect: Outputs and Impact

1. Empathy and Awareness: The facilitated dialogue was a masterclass in building trust and fostering peaceful conversations. While differences of opinion emerged on sensitive topics such as crime rates and migration myths, the discussions remained respectful and constructive. Migrants who often felt unheard found a platform to share their stories and feel validated. The initiative nurtured a profound sense of empathy among participants, breaking down cultural barriers and paving the way for deeper understanding.
2. Collaborative Networks: One of the initiative’s standout outcomes was the establishment of a network of stakeholders. Through the dialogue sessions, participants forged connections with NGOs, community organizations, and even government representatives. This network has since become a vital resource for collaborative action on migrant issues, including health care, education, and employment opportunities.
3. Policy Advocacy: Participants identified key areas; healthcare, education, and employment, that require policy intervention. With a unified voice, they committed to advocating for systemic changes that ensure migrants are treated as integral members of society. Afsana’s efforts also inspired attendees to take actionable steps toward policy advocacy. The group recognized the need for systemic changes and committed to voicing their concerns to policymakers. The shared vision was to ensure inclusivity for migrants in Portugal’s socio-economic fabric.
4. Cross-Cultural Integration: The initiative’s success has already begun to ripple through the community. For instance, during one of the sessions, a Hindu participant learned about Bazar Delight, an event organized by the Central Mosque. This newfound collaboration allowed the Hindu participant to plan a stall at the bazaar, exemplifying how cultural exchange can strengthen community bonds.

Feedback: A Shared Humanity

The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Many participants expressed how rare it was to feel truly heard and understood. Despite differences in opinion, the discussions were marked by respect and peaceful dialogue. Topics like the job crisis, housing shortages, and crime myths were tackled head-on, yet the conversations remained constructive, fostering mutual understanding.

Sustained Efforts: The Path Ahead

Migrants Matter is just the beginning. Afsana envisions this as a springboard for continued efforts. Future initiatives aim to amplify migrant voices, expand awareness, and build a robust platform for policy advocacy. The goal is clear: to create a society where migrants are not only seen but celebrated for their contributions.

Already, collaborations seeded by Migrants Matter are bearing fruit, exemplified by the interfaith engagement at the upcoming Bazar Delight. These connections highlight the power of dialogue in building bridges and promoting inclusivity.

Afsana’s Vision: Migrants Matter, Because People Matter

Through Migrants Matter, Afsana Jiwani is changing the narrative around migration in Portugal. By creating spaces for dialogue and collaboration, she is empowering individuals to turn personal struggles into collective strength. Her work is a testament to the transformative power of KAICIID's capacity-building programs and a shining example of what can be achieved when voices are united for a common purpose.