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For Apiyo

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Editorial

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Editor’s Welcome

Editorial

Cover

Group Editor: Frank Kamau – [email protected] Editor: [email protected] Designers: Robert Borbely | Sehrish DinContributors: Valentine Nkoyo | Kris Gunnars | Michael Henry | Edwin Ubah | Jenny Carter | Irene Amandi | Fiker Saifeselassie | Thelma Ruski | Fanta Manneh | Emily Lonergan | Andrew MwendaIT: Denis Negreba | Manisha SutradharPhotos: Sehrish Din | Joanna Frith Accounts: Xiaomin Qi - [email protected]: Penny Cooper - [email protected] & Marketing: Abdoulie Jah Community: Kevin Price | Edwin UbahNews & Comments: [email protected]

Berkshire Team: Cecily Mwaniki - [email protected] & News - [email protected] the magazineOnline @ www.mojatu.com/magazinesSubscription @ £24 per year including postage [email protected]: Mojatu Foundation Publications167 Alfreton Road, Nottingham, NG7 3JRT: 0118 906 3643 | 07859072534Facebook: www.facebook.com/mojatuTwitter: www.twitter.com/mojatu1Printers: Mojatu

We are delighted to bring you the 8th edition of Mojatu Berkshire. Thank you for the kind words from you all who take time to go through our magazine. This gives us more energy to bring more of what is going on in our communities. As we do so we continue to connect you with the wider community as we champion the course for human wellbeing which includes health, education/career, healthy marriage relationship, wealth creation and healthy community involvement. We are determined to forge ahead and the only time we tend to look back is when we need to see how far we have come. We still hold strongly that doing your little bit of good where you are helps as it is those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.

The latest overwhelming FGM and the Mental Health conferences have challenged us to look beyond our community and reach out to connect with the wider community to serve better. We are therefore determined to connect with the right people to better serve you. This will be evidenced by the upcoming September and October FGM and Mental Health conferences respectively.

In this edition, you will meet people who have tirelessly served their communities in various ways. Dr Abe’s effort to support Ato realise her dream of taking part in the upcoming Olympics to save the forgotten men and women of her community. Esther Oenga celebrates successful completion of her Doctorate in Gender Studies.

Special thanks to all who work with Utulivu and CMnetwork. Your kind words and positive attitude is keeping us going. Keep sending your comments, thoughts and suggestions!

Editor: Cecily Mwaniki Email: [email protected] www.cmnetwork.co.uk, www.utulivu.co.uk

Dr Phoebe Abe

ContentsNews & SportsInterview with Dr Phoebe Abe, GP ..................... 4-7

Celebrating Esther oenga’s Doctorate ................... 8

Mental Health World Day: .......................................... 8

CommunityWomen asked to run for Political Office ................ 9

Support Apiyo for Olympics ....................................13

FGM Impact: The Feminine Pain ...........................20

Health & Food18 Foods That Are Bad For YourHealth ................24

Business & FinanceYouth & Financial Health ...........................................26

Education & CareerTop CV Mistakes to Avoid ........................................27

Utulivu launches ‘Add LIFE To Your Life’ ...............28

ClassifiedsInternational FGM Conference ...............................29

Mojatu Foundation DisclaimerThe views expressed in this magazine are not necessar-ily those of the publishers. Every effort has been made to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot take responsibility for errors, omissions, nor can we accept responsibility for the advertisements or editorial contributions.

� mojatu.commojatu.comNews & Sports

1. What are you passionate about�What are you passionate about�

I am passionate about empowering young people, especially young mothers and widows, to achieve their potential.

2. Then can you tell us something about yourThen can you tell us something about your career

I have been a GP for nearly thirty years. My general daily routine is no different from all my colleagues all over the country. Therefore apart from the normal house visits, paper work of checking results, hospital reports, weekly meeting with our practice manager to discuss financial/ medical running of the surgery, one yearly appraisal/ five yearly revalidation and booked daily clinics from Mondays to Fridays that most of us do I have taken onto myself to do one hour session every day freely unfunded of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) to see any woman or girl who want to see me because she has medical or social problems. Giving then 15-30minutes appointment is very advantageous because we can correlate to one another and talk about all the medical problems and try to sort this out. Then as women we can talk a little about our lives which I share a lot with most of them.

This is so because do not forget I was a young woman refugee when I arrived from Africa into this country. I had no money I was single and free but I had no money and no qualification. I had left all my family in Africa. My father was in exile in Sudan and my mother was in Idi Amin’s notorious prison. When I left my people I knew I had to move on and succeed. Most of these women come to me very distraught but after they have seen me for more than five sessions they soon realise that I am one of them. Then we are on course. Medically I have to treat them with all their presenting chronic problems which can sometimes be so severe that I am sorry we all can break into tears and then later on go out for tea

or supper after a hard day’s work. I have always wanted to be a Doctor since I was 12 years old therefore this is really my comfort zone. I enjoy giving all to my patients. Sometimes I just feel I am not giving enough. I keep praying God to please let me give more and help me find a way to give more all the time. It is sad that GPs are allocated only 5-10minutes to see their patients. This is not enough!

3. What does Dr Abe Foundation and FGMWhat does Dr Abe Foundation and FGM Association Worldwide (FAW) do�

I have been doing charity work since I was a little girl. Helping the poor old man near our house called Okema Lamojelle. I would always fetch him some water and go and cook for him. Since 1992 I have been doing a lot of charity work in Uganda in IDP (Internally Displaced People’s) Camps in war torn Northern Uganda. I have danced, sang and cried with them. However, the thing we managed to do was to study anything any of them wanted to study.

One of them told me “Doctor everybody wants to go to University but I just want to be a 4x4 wheel driver as there are so many NGOs and heavy tracks going from Sudan to Mombasa passing

Dr ABE was born in Uganda. She attended Medical School at Makerere University but had to abandon her studies when she arrived in the UK as a refugee. She completed her degree at Manchester University Medical School and Master’s Degree in Clinical Tropical Medicine at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. She has been working as a GP for nearly 30 years. She is a very active supporter of women and girls, and has been instrumental in tackling FGM in the UK. She founded Dr Abe Foundation and Female Genital Mutilation Association Worldwide (FAW). She discussed her work and passion with Valentine Nkoyo.

INTErVIEW WITH Dr. PHoEBE ArACH ABE oKWoNGA

By Valentine Nkoyo

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through Gulu I want to learn to Drive and be a good driver” Yes, I paid for his driving lesson and he is now supporting all his relatives paying their school fees and lending them money to build houses. A Driver! We have had many qualified both girls and boys pursuing whatever they wanted to do. We have lecturers in the University, Nurses, teachers, politicians just name it we have them and we are very proud that despite all the odds we have made it

Next month we shall have a big celebration in Gulu for one of my students and other graduates from the University this month. Each student has assigned themselves to take/ adopt five children who looks to them as uncle/aunt (neru/wayo). It is a commitment they make to show that what I gave them they will give back also. As one of them said “Doctor we cannot measure your footstep but we can only follow it” I did this for Acholi Heartbeat and MAMA in Gulu from 1992 till 2010. Now they are able to look after themselves with little help. See my website www.drabefoundation.com.

What I did for them is what I intend to do for FAW women, girls, their children and their partners. I will try to encourage and help them to gain any education they want to persue as most of them had missed out. One African man told me when he brought his children to see me“Doctor we were 4 brothers and we had five sisters. They were not sent to school but they stayed at home cooked and did everything in the home while we go to school every day. They cooked for us, washed/ironed our clothes. They went to the garden while we stayed at home. Eventually all the four of us went to university and had good jobs” .

4. What is it important to support and empowerWhat is it important to support and empower FGM survivors�

We must empower them socially, financially, academically and literally in any way necessary.

Empowering a woman is the best. These women are nearly all mothers and with as many as 9 children in a household. .They need firstly and foremost speak and write English as at times the fathers are not even here. Therefore communication is very important especially where school home work is concerned. The young ‘girl’ survivors need to be encouraged to continue to complete their education whether they are under the social services or not. They are in a country where they can achieve anything they want to study and should be given a chance to be empowered.

5. How do you support and empower them�How do you support and empower them�

a. I have managed to send most of these womenI have managed to send most of these women to go and get certificate in English by attending evening or daytime classes in colleges when spouses or friends are at home or while their children are in classes consecutively.

b. Taking the women to functions or lectures whereTaking the women to functions or lectures where they meet other women who necessarily have not have had FGM but have had other traumatic experiences. For example they have attended talk and forum organised by Utulivu CMNetwork by Celily Mwaniki

c. Taken them to listen to talk on FGM and itTaken them to listen to talk on FGM and it surprising how most of them do not realise that most of the medical problems they have is due to FGM. And once they attended these functions as explained by Dr Comfort Momoh MBE when I took them in 2014 they came back all quiet in the car because they did not realise the seriousness of FGM experienced by other women.

d. II have regular weekly or monthly meetings in my surgery so they can talk to one another or invite people to come and talk to them. Or I do it myself.

6. What kind of business activities are theWhat kind of business activities are the women you work with interested in�

I have asked them what they want to do as this is an individual choice from country to country they come from. Some want and are now doing beads necklaces and ear rings and bracelets and they have gone to London and obtained Saturday training at the beads crafts. Others want food as most of them think they can provide foods prepared that people in their community would like to eat but I had to send them to do ‘the health and safety Certificate and Diploma’. Most of these women are fantastic cooks but for those (very few) who cannot cook we try and teach them as they need to prepare food for themselves. Hair dressing, counselling sessions

Dr ABE was born in Uganda. She attended Medical School at Makerere University but had to abandon her studies when she arrived in the UK as a refugee. She completed her degree at Manchester University Medical School and Master’s Degree in Clinical Tropical Medicine at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. She has been working as a GP for nearly 30 years. She is a very active supporter of women and girls, and has been instrumental in tackling FGM in the UK. She founded Dr Abe Foundation and Female Genital Mutilation Association Worldwide (FAW). She discussed her work and passion with Valentine Nkoyo.

� mojatu.commojatu.comNews & Sports

and dressmaking are also in demand. We have so many African dress makers and tailors and most of them have volunteered to help these women do some tailoring. I have advised all of them to try and get a pen/paper/notebook and start writing their Autobiography or etc.

7. �ou are a successful African woman. How has�ou are a successful African woman. How has is it been being a single mother and widowed, having come to the UK as a refugee and training to become a Doctor�

I am not sure about being successful. However my upbringing in Uganda tells it all. My tribe Acholi and my parents Peter and Irene Abe the community and my siblings did it all for me. Then the rest I had to do it myself. Discipline and love in the home is very important. I cannot emphasise this enough. It is all coming in my next book ‘Survivors Flocking Together’. Fetching water from the well on our heads every day before going to school; collecting firewood from the bush where sometimes you can find pythons or snakes; going hunting with my dad; cooking for the family even at the age of ten years old.

Being a nanny to my little brother Abraham at the age of five; assisting my grandmother Tezira who was a local doctor and midwife as she delivers children and look after pregnant women and sick people always instructing me to go and get herbs, medicine from the barks of and old tree; sitting and listening to my grandfather chief Lasto Okech meeting important people; my father and mothers were all very highly educated but they did not give us room to be too comfortable! They was and still is absolute equality among all the 16 children they had.

So when I arrived here as a refugee in my early twenty with nothing it did not take me long to complete my studies. I was widowed very young and as a single mother I survived it. I was lucky God blessed me with such wonderful children. I am also a strong Christian you know and this helped me through.

8. Apart from your career, what else do you do�Apart from your career, what else do you do�

I Sing. I have done 2 albums and 2 CDs and videos, NIPO, Acholi Renaissance my first album produced by Derrick Taylor. I Dance. I know all my traditional Acholi dances... and I have danced all of them except the ‘Lyel’ (funeral dance). My mother did not allow us to dance it so even as an old woman I find it difficult to participate in it. But when I am gone I hope my people will celebrate and dance happily for me. I deserve it now. Acholi have so many traditional dances as a child as soon as you start walking you are taught how to dance ‘Dingidingi’. As you grow older you learn Larakaraka and games with singing as in my second Acholi book. Then there is Ajere, Moko, for the active and fit youths. Then the one for women Acut and Apiti. Then for grown ups with youths invited ‘Otole’ (war dance). ‘Bwola’ (ceremonial dance) and last ‘Lyel’ for the elderly. You do not dance when a youth or a child dies!

I love cooking especially the Acholi dishes. You know my clan ‘KOCh ‘ love their beans and peanut butter and ‘kwon’ (millet bread) I have been cooking since I was 10 years old so I know How to do this with ‘my eyes closed’. I also write books in Acholi and Tedo pa Acholi (Acholi Cookery Book) my first ever book. I go to the Gymn and I support my children whom I keep in constant contact with.

9. What has been the most successful thingWhat has been the most successful thing you’ve done in your career�

Written a book ‘Female Genital Mutilation. A-Z Guide’ (See advert in page 7)

10. What has been the most challenging thing inWhat has been the most challenging thing in your career and how did you overcome it�

Being an immigrant ‘black’ woman. I had been a northerner among southerners where I could not speak their language in Uganda boarding school 500 miles away from my Acholi community. At the age of twelve I dealt with it. 10 years later arriving in Britain I had to deal with it. My Christian

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faith and learning to be polite to all people make life easier not perfect but tolerable so you can do what you want to do and achieve. You should never blame anyone for your ‘misfortune’ I have two prayers. I thank God to all the bad things (I think) which has happened to me because when I go through it this makes me stronger. I thank God for all the ‘good’ things that happen to me because this make me happy

11. What’s your message to young women ofWhat’s your message to young women of African origin living in the UK�

First and most importantly, sort out your education. Stay close to your maternal and paternal family and community. Whatever religion you have practice it appropriately and read your book of religion yourself and understand it to pass it to your children. Know what your children are being taught. Religion is very good! Learn to pray so when you have children and family you will pray for your children and family. Mothers have a lot of responsibilities. Quoting the Quran ‘When other people pray God is up there. When Mother pray God come down and pray with you’

12. Where would you like to see FAW in theWhere would you like to see FAW in the next five years�

Financially we should be stable. Nationally FAW should teach all survivors to be strong and go beyond FGM. Get involved in the community networking. Globally we must connect with the African Union and all 29 practising African countries and their roots making sure they understand the law which has been passed (if not it should be done). Their President Valentine Nkoyo should work effortlessly, solidly and together with all the members willing to promote the end to FGM. By 2020 there should be no more girls being cut and traumatised.

Get a copy & Learn about

FGM Support FGM campaign

Online: www.fgmworldwide.orgEmail: [email protected]: 0118 906 3643 | 07859072534

All proceeds go to FGM Association Worldwide (FAW)

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Empowering Women through Education:

Celebrating Esther oenga’s Doctorate For just over ten years, Utulivu has thrived in empowering women in all angles of life to be

change makers in themselves, their families and the communities in which they live in.

One of those angles the group has continued to focus on is education as they strongly believe that lack of it limits prospects, decreases family income, reduces health, puts women and girls at risk of trafficking and exploitation, and limits the economic advancement of entire countries. As a result we have witnessed women go back to education and come out stronger and powerful in better managing themselves and their families.

Among others, this July we celebrate with Esther Oenga, the current Utulivu chair on successful completion of her doctorate in Gender Studies. She is clearly leading by example in pushing our education agenda forward. Esther has done this besides all her other family and community duties and without complaining or going about her business with a tired, long looking face. She is always full of energy and above all encouraging and positive in all ways. This is the kind of women we want to be around if we are to move forward in life successfully and painlessly. Look out for our next edition for the full story on Esther’s journey to achieving this prestigious award.

Mental Health is more than just the absence of mental illness: It includes how you feel about yourself and how you adjust to life’s events. There is no health without mental health. Therefore: Accept Yourself; Talk About It; Ask For Help. Mental health problems are found in people of all ages, religions, countries and societies.STRIKING STATISTICS• I in 4 people will experience some kind of mental

health problem in the course of their life time. • About 23% of all years lost because of disability

is caused by mental health and substance use disorder

• Around 20% of the world’s children and adolescents have mental health disorders or problems in a year and about 10% at any given time.

• About 800,000people commit suicide every year. It is

the second leading cause of death in 15-29 year olds. 75% of suicides occur in the low and middle-income countries. 4 out of 5 who commit suicide are male.

• Stigma and discrimination against patients and families prevent people from seeking mental health care.

• Depression affects 1 in every 5 older people living in the community and 2 in 5 living in the care homes.

• UK has the highest rate of self-harm in Europe: 400 per 100,000 population

• Only 1 in 10 prisoners has no mental disorder.• Overall, inpatients from the Black Caribbean,

Black African and other Black groups are 33-44% times more likely to be detained under the mental Health Act 1983 when compared with the average for all inpatients.

Mental Health World Day: Recognising and supporting those with mental health needs - By Cecily Mwaniki

Mental HealtH World day 2015Recognising and suppoRting those with mental health needs Join us on: Friday 9th oct 2015 at hilton hotel, drake way, Reading, Rg2 0gQto observe this day with the view of looking at the man beyond mental health.

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Empowering Women through Education:

Celebrating Esther oenga’s Doctorate For just over ten years, Utulivu has thrived in empowering women in all angles of life to be

change makers in themselves, their families and the communities in which they live in.

One of those angles the group has continued to focus on is education as they strongly believe that lack of it limits prospects, decreases family income, reduces health, puts women and girls at risk of trafficking and exploitation, and limits the economic advancement of entire countries. As a result we have witnessed women go back to education and come out stronger and powerful in better managing themselves and their families.

Among others, this July we celebrate with Esther Oenga, the current Utulivu chair on successful completion of her doctorate in Gender Studies. She is clearly leading by example in pushing our education agenda forward. Esther has done this besides all her other family and community duties and without complaining or going about her business with a tired, long looking face. She is always full of energy and above all encouraging and positive in all ways. This is the kind of women we want to be around if we are to move forward in life successfully and painlessly. Look out for our next edition for the full story on Esther’s journey to achieving this prestigious award.

Women have to be asked to run for Political Office You know when you are told about an event and you think “Oh yeah! I see!” You don’t actually see the content of that event but you get a picture of it in your mind which, disappears after 48 hours until it reappears again another time and rings your bell.

I heard about the “International Women’s Day”, as a child, I knew that it was a particular event to celebrate something to do with, women around the world. When I became an adult, I knew a bit more about it but I was discouraged to try to go into more details regarding this subject – the adult women around me were not interested in politics, they didn’t believe in this kind of events. They said, this event has been

happening for years and nothing has improved for women.

When I moved to Europe, raising my standard was the centre of my focus. I set up key goals for my motivation after I have been so discouraged by many women who decided to park and put the hand break on. These women were unconsciously and unintentionally programming the curious girl I was into a submissive person and a passive woman. Submissiveness is a frame of mind, or a mindset - some women may choose to submit to religious, governmental, or traditional law while others may submit to these rules because they feel forced to do so. However, submissiveness is not an innate character trait of any woman and certainly not of any Arab woman. In fact, planting an idea in someone's mind is an easy thing to do and it's sometimes tough to avoid. I grew up in a world where ‘Reverse psychology’ was used repeatedly. Everyone who was older than me used to try to manipulate me into doing what they wanted. If my mum were to use logic reversals in her favour, she knew she needed to be subtle. But in situations where I had to obey to my mum to honour my dad’s reputation, and I was being stubborn, the nice approach was certainly not my mum’s option. So what was her behaviour in this kind of situation then? She may use a warning like this: “Listen my daughter, your dad has decided he doesn’t want to support the idea of you going to school after ‘A level’ anymore. He’s just going to buy a sewing machine and I will teach you how to use it instead. If you want to give me some ideas about what you want to learn, I can take you to private class too." This was a strong way to tell your daughter that a decision was made for her; no school anymore and a new future husband in her life. My mother was expecting me to have no other alternative and just accept the new situation. This is how reverse psychology can be effective, as long as you say it like you mean it. My mum looked very serious.

Women have to be asked to run for Political Office You know when you are told about an event and you think “Oh yeah! I see!” You don’t actually see the content of that event but you get a picture of it in your mind which, disappears after 48 hours until it reappears again another time and rings your bell.

I heard about the “International Women’s Day”, as a child, I knew that it was a particular event to celebrate something to do with, women around the world. When I became an adult, I knew a bit more about it but I was discouraged to try to go into more details regarding this subject – the adult women around me were not interested in politics, they didn’t believe in this kind of events. They said, this event has been

happening for years and nothing has improved for women.

When I moved to Europe, raising my standard was the centre of my focus. I set up key goals for my motivation after I have been so discouraged by many women who decided to park and put the hand break on. These women were unconsciously and unintentionally programming the curious girl I was into a submissive person and a passive woman. Submissiveness is a frame of mind, or a mindset - some women may choose to submit to religious, governmental, or traditional law while others may submit to these rules because they feel forced to do so. However, submissiveness is not an innate character trait of any woman and certainly not of any Arab woman. In fact, planting an idea in someone's mind is an easy thing to do and it's sometimes tough to avoid. I grew up in a world where ‘Reverse psychology’ was used repeatedly. Everyone who was older than me used to try to manipulate me into doing what they wanted. If my mum were to use logic reversals in her favour, she knew she needed to be subtle. But in situations where I had to obey to my mum to honour my dad’s reputation, and I was being stubborn, the nice approach was certainly not my mum’s option. So what was her behaviour in this kind of situation then? She may use a warning like this: “Listen my daughter, your dad has decided he doesn’t want to support the idea of you going to school after ‘A level’ anymore. He’s just going to buy a sewing machine and I will teach you how to use it instead. If you want to give me some ideas about what you want to learn, I can take you to private class too." This was a strong way to tell your daughter that a decision was made for her; no school anymore and a new future husband in her life. My mother was expecting me to have no other alternative and just accept the new situation. This is how reverse psychology can be effective, as long as you say it like you mean it. My mum looked very serious.

Community�0 mojatu.com

I obviously had no choice apart from using the same method to escape this dark situation; arguably the most evil manipulative technique is what psychologists call the "fear-then-relief technique." This technique preys on people's emotions. Here, I had to play the role of a manipulator; I caused my mum a short stress and anxiety and then rapidly relieved that stress. I said that I had previously an accident falling off a horse when I went with our neighbours to the countryside - the local doctor said there were fears I might have suffered spinal injuries and issues with my virginity. After this sudden mood swing, my mum looked completely disarmed. I could see the fear on her face, I then quickly continued with “Thank god! The doctor reassured me with good news and confirmed that there was nothing to worry about”. “I know how it feels!” I told my mum, “I felt exactly the same when you announced to me your decision. I hope you will help me escape this marriage mum - it’s like throwing me into fire! Please don’t do that to me! I paused then added: “I really don’t want to tell dad about this story, it will certainly get you in trouble, and you could get divorced because of it! Can you just imagine if he knew all this now? ”I wouldn’t have saved my life if I didn’t use my mum’s mind-set attitude and had mirrored her. Was that politically correct? Was that fear or empowerment? I have always said that women don’t need to be empowered, all they need to do is change their mind-set or attitude. After going through so many experiences in my life, I have learnt to look at opportunities and possibilities with positive attitude. I set goals that were fundamental to me; I was very motivated, I learnt more about fear and how to deal with it and I also came across "S.M.A.R.T goals" and decided to apply the rule. Today, as a personal and professional Coach, Speaker, Trainer and Writer, I have been helping people appreciate their own strengths and wisdom so they become encouraged to move forward.

I joined different Networking organisations including ‘cmnetwork.co.uk’ and had the honour to work closely with its Managing Director, Cecily Mwaniki who helped me become one of the most important Speakers representing the FGM - Middle East in UK. From positive opportunity to positive opportunity, my aim today is to make my voice heard, to speak on behalf of all the girls and women in general and those in Middle East and North Africa in particular. I was so pleased and happy to be invited to give a speech “re: Make it happen” in the House of Parliament in London.

My motivation for wanting to understand this event started to take a big space in my mind. ‘International Women’s Day’: the Global day that celebrates the economic, political and social achievements of women. I have been hearing this definition repeating in my mind when I was inside the house of parliament, when I saw all these people from diverse backgrounds together to discuss issues and celebrate achievements. I felt empowered.

I was inspired by different speakers including: Cecily Mwaniki who I have always seen as strong and determined woman, her perseverance is just unlimited. Her passion is to inspire and empower women and young people succeed by supporting them focus on what matters to them. Cecily supports them build and expand their capacity to develop skills, knowledge and positive attitudes that enable them fulfil their potential to not only benefit themselves but also their families and the communities in which they live in.

The MP of Reading West Alok Sharma who reassured me when it comes to politics, I opened up to learn about women in politics with a flexible mind.

Jean Charmak, who has been in business managing director of recruitment business, first lady president of the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce; first lady District Governor of Notary District 1090, national president of the institute of employment consultants and chairman of business link. I would listen to Jean Charmak for hours and keep learning new things.

Victor Koroma is a general manager at ACRE, he oversaw transitional arrangements which resulted in establishing Acre in October 2012, and now serves as the lead officer. His previous appointment was as Deputy Director and Casework Supervisor for Reading Council for Racial Equality. Victor speech was inspirational and powerful since he is always present to support and empower everyone.

Sam Onigbanjo, who is absolutely passionate about empowering women. He started “Women for Africa” driven by a 2 years desire to see women honoured and appreciated in a celebratory way. A marketing and communications strategist, as well as an experienced fundraiser with a vast knowledge of getting businesses ready to access finance. Sam is a public speaker with a strong passion for growth and development amongst people first then business.











Communitymojatu.com Berkshire connected ��

I obviously had no choice apart from using the same method to escape this dark situation; arguably the most evil manipulative technique is what psychologists call the "fear-then-relief technique." This technique preys on people's emotions. Here, I had to play the role of a manipulator; I caused my mum a short stress and anxiety and then rapidly relieved that stress. I said that I had previously an accident falling off a horse when I went with our neighbours to the countryside - the local doctor said there were fears I might have suffered spinal injuries and issues with my virginity. After this sudden mood swing, my mum looked completely disarmed. I could see the fear on her face, I then quickly continued with “Thank god! The doctor reassured me with good news and confirmed that there was nothing to worry about”. “I know how it feels!” I told my mum, “I felt exactly the same when you announced to me your decision. I hope you will help me escape this marriage mum - it’s like throwing me into fire! Please don’t do that to me! I paused then added: “I really don’t want to tell dad about this story, it will certainly get you in trouble, and you could get divorced because of it! Can you just imagine if he knew all this now? ”I wouldn’t have saved my life if I didn’t use my mum’s mind-set attitude and had mirrored her. Was that politically correct? Was that fear or empowerment? I have always said that women don’t need to be empowered, all they need to do is change their mind-set or attitude. After going through so many experiences in my life, I have learnt to look at opportunities and possibilities with positive attitude. I set goals that were fundamental to me; I was very motivated, I learnt more about fear and how to deal with it and I also came across "S.M.A.R.T goals" and decided to apply the rule. Today, as a personal and professional Coach, Speaker, Trainer and Writer, I have been helping people appreciate their own strengths and wisdom so they become encouraged to move forward.

I joined different Networking organisations including ‘cmnetwork.co.uk’ and had the honour to work closely with its Managing Director, Cecily Mwaniki who helped me become one of the most important Speakers representing the FGM - Middle East in UK. From positive opportunity to positive opportunity, my aim today is to make my voice heard, to speak on behalf of all the girls and women in general and those in Middle East and North Africa in particular. I was so pleased and happy to be invited to give a speech “re: Make it happen” in the House of Parliament in London.

My motivation for wanting to understand this event started to take a big space in my mind. ‘International Women’s Day’: the Global day that celebrates the economic, political and social achievements of women. I have been hearing this definition repeating in my mind when I was inside the house of parliament, when I saw all these people from diverse backgrounds together to discuss issues and celebrate achievements. I felt empowered.
















Community�� mojatu.com

Magic 4PsWoman of Purpose

Speakers:Venue:

Date:Fee:

Info:

Refugee, Woman, Window, GP--what a journey?

Dr Abe & other empowering speakersReadin g Hilton, Drakes Way, Reading, RG2 0GQSunday 12th July, 1-6pm£15 (Food and Parking) Get tickets at https://goo.gl/9uO8XR07859063643, [email protected] or www.cmnetwork.co.uk

TBCPassio

n Persistence Patience Purpose

leaflet.indd 1 25/06/2015 14:16:28

Dr Phoebe Abe MB ChB MSc CTM, General Practitioner in the UK, single mother and a widow herself, she is now an associate member on the APPG (All Parliamentary Party Group) on FGM, to the delight of her wonderful children. She also campaigns internationally against FGM. In Dr Abe’s work she informs her peers, surgeons in the medical profession as to the seriousness of FGM, many of whom are unaware of stitched women who are in labour and then proceed to Caesarean section. Outside of her surgery hours she passionately holds grassroots meetings with women to discuss the harm, the legal implications on those found guilty of the practice as well as political activism and lobbying.

Victoria Hunter is ACRE’s Community Engagement Officer tasked with establishing an Equality Alliance and Hate Crime Forum serving greater Reading. With a Master in Public International Law, Victoria has worked and volunteered in community development or educational projects on a variety of continents. Before joining acre she was engaged with youth empowerment and active citizenship

here in Reading. Victoria’s immediate minute after all the speakers have finished their talks is an amazing sum up to finish with as it shapes the entire event for a great memorable picture for everyone to take with.

While in the House of Parliament Westminster, London and in just a single moment, I experienced what we call an “Aha! Moment”! A moment of sudden realization, inspiration and insight - a brain wave that turned me into a person on a mission. The 26/02/2015 was the day that challenged me to think of an action; begin a legacy that can be passed on to future generations of working women.

It is never too late to have the ‘aha’ moment, it's a true moment of clarity. I started honouring that moment and the people who where there to make this event successful.





















Do you want to share your stories and experiences with Mojatu readers�

Would you like to empower others? Lead a more productive life? Join the Mojatu Foundation Team

0115 8457 009 | [email protected]

We will hear some music from Dr Abe:

Dr. Phoebe Abe MBChB MScCTM oN EMPoWErING

”Magic 4Ps Woman of Purpose”

mojatu.com Support Apiyo for Olympics

Magic 4PsWoman of Purpose

Speakers:Venue:

Date:Fee:

Info:

Refugee, Woman, Window, GP--what a journey?

Dr Abe & other empowering speakersReadin g Hilton, Drakes Way, Reading, RG2 0GQSunday 12th July, 1-6pm£15 (Food and Parking) Get tickets at https://goo.gl/9uO8XR07859063643, [email protected] or www.cmnetwork.co.uk

TBCPassio

n Persistence Patience Purpose

leaflet.indd 1 25/06/2015 14:16:28





















Do you want to share your stories and experiences with Mojatu readers�

Would you like to empower others? Lead a more productive life? Join the Mojatu Foundation Team

0115 8457 009 | [email protected]

We will hear some music from Dr Abe: ‘Acholi Renaissance’ album released in 2006 which includes Included on this album is an old Acholi song, Ajulina. This is one of the Acholi’s traditional dances that involves singing and dancing while very skilful boys and girls are playing the instruments. It tells the story of a very beautiful girl called Ajulina. Almost every male youth in that village wanted to marry her, and because of her beautiful body, the boys rivalled over her and

complained of sleepless nights in order to lay strategies to win her favour. “Ajulina I will not sleep today. The thought of Ajulina stops me from sleeping. When my parents are gone I will rely on you. Ajulin you are everything.

‘Nipo’ album, produced by Aaron Quocoe and released in 2008, which includes the song ‘Pii’ (‘Water’). “I am thirsty but I want to drink water that flows from heaven. This changes and turns all my sorrows to happiness”.

We will hear some music from Dr Abe:

Dr. Phoebe Abe MBChB MScCTM oN EMPoWErING

”Magic 4Ps Woman of Purpose”

Refugee, Woman, Widow, GP- what a journey?

Support Apiyo for Olympics

Dr Phoebe Abe on Supporting Ato, a victim of child abduction by guerilla

fighters in Uganda Who was raped and abused And lived in camps of the camps of Internally Displaced People between

1986-2010

Dr Phoebe Abe with the IDP children.

Dr Abe says, “Yes I agree with the suffering of these children and we must never give up but continue to work with them. That little child I am carrying may one day be one of the leaders of the world because who knows what destiny has in store!” When I came to the camp she walked slowly, tapped my lap and with her palms in supine position begged gently and said “tinga ba” (“Please carry me”) and when I was leaving she asked “ibidwogo awene ka ii tingo wa ci keliwa tyang ki labolo?” (“When are you coming back so you can carry us and bring us sugarcane and bananas?”) The children only need a little love and simple gentle smile.

Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta INDIA

Mother Teresa said, “My true community is the poor - their security is my security ... To the children, to all who suffer and are lonely, give always a happy smile.”

rEMEMBErING API�o “There is no death in remembrance. Remember me, Sarah. Remember me, and a part of me will always be with you.” - Martha Carrier to her daughter, Sarah Carrier Kathleen Kent, The Heretic’s Daughter

“One lives in the hope of becoming a memory.” Antonio Porchia

“I think it is all a matter of love; the more you love a memory the stronger and stranger it becomes” Vladimir Nabokov

Internally Displaced People (IDP) Camps 1986-2010 in Uganda By Dr Phoebe Abe MBChB MScCTM of Gulu

The True story of IDP Child, Ato Apiyo: A Determined Survivor“Walking for Apiyo and must get That Gold olympic Medal”


Internally Displaced People (IDP) Camps 1986-2010 in Uganda By Dr Phoebe Abe MBChB MScCTM of Gulu

Apiyo was a victim of child abduction by guerrilla fighters and Ato is a survivor of that child abduction by guerrilla fighters. Here is her true story. A moving account of a determined young girl who grew up against all odds and is now Walking for Gold!

My name is Ato. I am 30 years old with 15 and 8 year old daughters who were conceived, born and partly raised in the wild. My walking experience in life will eventually lead me to win an Olympic walking medal for my late friend Apiyo. I am walking for Apiyo. Walk with me please!

My story goes like this:

“I was only ten years old when I was abducted from my mother. We had been living in our village in Acholiland, Uganda, in East Africa.

That day I had gone to the forest and collected some firewood. I also had a large field where I had managed to plant simsim (sesame) and maize. As a child I had always been very supportive of my family. I would wake up very early in the morning and go and dig in the garden, planting my own crops. I did not raise any animals as this was risky since they could be stolen or destroyed by fighting forces.

In the evening I was sitting with my mother and my maternal aunt on the compound by our small thatched hut. The sun had just gone down and the evening breeze was nice, cool and refreshing after a hard day work. My last meal with my mum was that of Kwon kal (millet bread) and malakwang (Hibiscus sabdariffa) mixed with peanut and sesame butter.

Suddenly there was a surge of about thirty wild people shouting and rampaging in the compound, which just a few seconds ago was so peaceful.

My elder brother had quietly slipped away and ran to hide in the makeshift dug hole covered with grass which we prepared for cover in case there was war.

I did not have the chance to escape and run because four very strong young men and a woman took me from my mother. I was never to see her again.

It was now 7:00pm and with no shoes and only

the clothes I had was soon recruited into Lakwena (messenger) army/fighters. You have no choice. If you slow down you die, because the government forces were following and searching for us or fighting with us depending on the circumstances. I kept thinking about my family as I was the one who supported them. My brother was lazy but I always did everything

for my family, especially my mother with cooking, gardening, collecting firewood, grinding millet/sesame/peanuts and fetching water from the river two miles away. I kept thinking about my mother and my sesame in the garden which had grown so well and was going to give me a good yield that season.

However now I was in a new and wild zone beyond my imaginations as a child. How was I going to cope?

Then as if the good God heard my mother’s prayer I suddenly found a friend called Apiyo. She had been abducted 2 years earlier and now she was twelve. She started telling

me what to do and what not to do. She told me that I must listen to everything these people tell me to do otherwise I would not survive in the wild. We stayed in this camp for two weeks and then had to move on. All the girls and women were given or allocated to men to take care of. We were all checked to make sure we had not contracted HIV/AIDS.

Apiyo and I were given to a man I will call Mr A. The first two years were very difficult and I had to settle in this new routine of life. But with Apiyo’s help I soon learnt to do things quickly. One day we were all hurdled up in one small, cramped hut. We were nearly thirty in number and it was impossible to breathe. I started crying and Apiyo pinched me (ongwinya) and advised me to persevere and keep quiet. The next morning the woman leader saw dry tears down my face. She said I was being difficult and must learn to adapt to the system quickly. They made me carry 50kg of stolen maize flour on my head for 5 miles.

When I was 12 years I started my womanhood. This was difficult as the blood would just be dripping and running everywhere. The only good at this time of the month was that we were not allowed to cook or prepare food at this time and could rest. My friend Apiyo who was now fourteen guided me.

When I was 13 years old the commander, Mr A, who

The True story of IDP Child, Ato Apiyo: A Determined Survivor“Walking for Apiyo and must get That Gold olympic Medal”


was allocated 6 women and girls, called me to his hut. That night I cried so much as he raped me. He was all over me. I cried and cried and even my friend Apiyo could not help me. Every night he called me to his hut, then tell me to go and wash myself. Sometimes I was so tired and could not walk to find water to wash myself. But Apiyo would take every opportunity to secretly get some warm salty water and a small piece of cloth and come and wash me, telling me all the time to be brave and persevere. One day when she saw that I was too exhausted she volunteered to go and sleep with Mr A while I get some rest that night. Mr A did not care at all about my crying. He did not tell me to keep quiet ether. He was totally indifferent and couldn’t care less.

At the age of 14 he made me pregnant. This was very hard because we were not stationed in one place. We walked to escape from Government forces. We had to carry heavy loads and run at the same time while the men and some women were engaged in combat fighting. While on the run I delivered my first daughter I named Alal (I have wasted) by a small river side. A week later when I was feeding my baby there was a loud noise. We were commanded to park and move quickly as the enemies were approaching. We had to run and hide in the caves in some mountain areas in Sudan. Because the Government forces were chasing us we had no alternative but to run and hide. However, in this particular area there were Sudanese forces who did not like Lakwena forces. They were also known to be cannibals. We were more scared of them than the Uganda forces because getting rid of the latter was easy. They could not match our strength.

As we approached them there was anxiety, fear and contemplation about what to do. I was carrying my one week old baby. Apiyo was now 8 months pregnant with Mr A’s baby and she was by then 17 years old. As she was in front of me I could feel and see how she was struggling. But Apiyo was brave and strong. I was holding her hand and carrying my baby on my back and some load on my head. I held tight to Apiyo. She dropped the food she was carrying. This was not like the Apiyo I knew because she would never do that. She told me to continue as she was now too tired to go any further. Everybody

was on the run to get to the safe place. The men were engaged in fighting. The Sudanese tribe Lutugu grabbed Apiyo. They cut the baby from her stomach by slitting her abdomen open. I could hear her give a small gentle cry and her baby moan. In a matter of a few seconds it was all over for Apiyo and her baby. These people kill you as if you are crushing shelled nuts between your thumb and index finger. I looked back and her baby was thrown on her open bleeding abdomen.

And that was the end of my friend Apiyo.

As young as I was I had no time to mourn, let alone bury, my friend. She was my mentor and guardian. She had guided me and without her I would not have survived my life in the wild running around carrying loads as heavy as 50-100kg at a time.

When you are cooking and the enemy approaches you have to carry all the cooking things and food on your head and back. Sometimes you walk while the food is cooking on your head. You do not drop it because you will be on ‘firing’ when you arrive at the other side. One day I got really burnt. You do not leave anything around where you have been camping

because you do not want the enemy to know that you have been there. Sometimes we can camp in one place for 2 weeks or more. The longest site we were at was for 18 months within Uganda itself. I tried to escape but Alal started crying so I gave up. We moved from Uganda to Sudan, Zaire and Central African Republic. You sleep and ready to get up and move.

After Apiyo died, I had another companion, Alal. Until the age of 3, Alal was always on my back while I cooked, ran, walked and carried heavy loads on my head. When she was 4 years old I tried to make sure she walked the long distances so she would get used to the hardship of our type of life because I was not sure if

we would ever come back to ‘real’ life as I knew it. Her father was involved in attacks and fighting when she was only one year old. Whenever he went away on foreign travels or long distances he always instructed his bodyguard, Mr B, to look after all his women, making sure they were safe from any attack. Mr B did not have women allocated to him as he was still a young man in ‘grooming’. Mr B was very good to us and this went on for two years. Mr

Alal and Aloyo daughters of Ato


B looking after me very well whenever his boss was away. In fact I found he treated me more humanely and with more respect than Alal’s father. He kept his distance to the level of an obedient guardian.

It was in one of these fighting combats that Alal’s father was seriously wounded and had to be flown out of the camp to far away country where he was treated. He came back limping, but he managed to keep on fighting whenever we were attacked. He was a good father but had a hard heart (he did not have a soft heart for women). But still he always instructed Mr B to take care of his women very well whenever he went away.

Since Apiyo died, Alal’s father now had five of us. Another young girl called Ajok soon joined us to make up the number of 6. She was only ten years old. I felt sorry for Ajok, since this took me back to memory lane. She was also abducted like me. I could see the fright and uncertainty on her face. I advised her and cared for her just as Apiyo had done for me. One day she tried to escape. She had just managed to get out of the hut where we were and I pulled her back very quickly. And I told her “do not ever do that again. You will escape one day when situation is right. Now if you had got out of this door they will either torture you or rape you. I will always be by your side. Now we belong to Mr A. It means you are now part of our team”. She agreed then cried and went to sleep. We usually walked at night, to raid houses to get supplies for food, clothing and medicines from schools, hospitals and pharmacies. It was in one of those days that we had to fight the government forces for a whole day. We killed all of them, but Alal’s father was killed in crossfire. After 3 weeks, Mr B took me over as well as all the other five women. He now had six of us as his wives. My daughter was only one year old when her father died so she can hardly remember him.

We continued moving from place to place, fighting the Uganda Government and the Lutugu tribe automatically sympathetic to Uganda Government since the Sudan Government was assisting and supporting us. They lived deep and around the mountains. We did not fear Uganda Government forces because they were no match for us. I then became a commander and Sergeant in the group. And this was not by choice. You were appointed commander and demanded to command. If you refused you were either left to face the enemy alone in the wild or forced to carry unusually heavy and unbearable loads, nearly breaking your neck.

Commander Kony would come and address us from time to time but I never had direct contact with him. But he was organised and said men must

protect women at all times and assigned to each of them. It was supposed to be punishable if men slept with underage girls. But these rules were broken all the time! Moving all the time meant there was no way I could stay redundant. I had to fight. We had to fight. I do not know the effects the life I lived in the wilderness will have on my children. When my daughter was six years I conceived my second child.

One day, when I was 8 months pregnant, we had to fight again. This time we were on the rocky mountain in Sudan region. With our enemies shelling on us like rainstorm we had to fire back. Running behind the men who were fighting I was holding my seven years old daughter’s hand and encouraging her to walk on. There were dead bodies and blood everywhere. We had no alternative but walk over them. There was no room for fear, anxiety or time to be despondent. I could not help but just hold my daughter’s hand because I was so heavy in my pregnancy. I did not want her to go through all these dreadful experiences but what could I do? After a long day of fighting we defeated the enemy. A few of them who survived were stripped off of their ammunitions and left to go back to their home country. Our leaders said once the enemies were defeated they should be left alive to go back wherever they wanted to go. We should never kill them or take them into captivity as we would not be able to care for them either where we would be camping or walking to.

As we reached a small river I gave birth to my daughter Aloyo (I have won). I called her Aloyo because I was so determined this time that I am going to win and survive. I thought giving my daughter the name Alal (I am wasted/finished) should not be allowed to overshadow our destiny. This time I should use the word Loyo (meaning ‘win’). Aloyo was born by the riverside at 6:00pm in the evening. I delivered her by myself. Her father was not there as he was badly injured and had to be flown out of the area by helicopter to a faraway area and I never saw him again. I had no food and I was so hungry. Alal’s lips were bleeding and chapped because of dehydration. Her feet were bleeding as she had no shoes and her toenails had come off because of the long walk. We walked on for another thirty miles to escape from the enemies to find a camp to settle for a few days. The river was not clean as there were some dead bodies and human blood. To get some water and fluid we tried to eat or suck some worms and live off some succulent non-poisonous plants well known to us. I tore pieces of my dress and wrapped my newborn baby while holding onto Alal. I was tired but had to think hard what to do.

As we crossed the border into Uganda from Sudan I decided I must make a move to escape otherwise


my children and I would die from starvation and dehydration. As a Sergeant in the army who had just delivered a baby they were not so strictly watching me. I took this chance and slipped off from the group into a small field which was rather bushy. It was late into the night. I was so tired. I laid down, exhausted, holding my baby and trying to squeeze the last drop of milk from my breast into my three-week-old baby’s mouth. The three of us were exhausted, dehydrated and tired. Alal did not complain, she just looked on and stared at my face so helplessly. A large python crawled and passed us by as if it could sense there was no life in there! I was glad it passed us by because I did not want it to eat one and leave two of us. By the edge of the field I cuddled my daughters to my malnourished body, hoping we would be found. I prayed as I have never and may never pray again in my life. I always had a faith in God ingrained and instilled in me by my mother.

As the morning approaches The Lord heard my prayer because suddenly there was a middle aged woman who spotted us. She came and took the baby, strapping Alal on her back and holding my wasted shaky hands she directed us to the military base where it was advisable to take us so she could be rewarded by the Goverment for finding anybody coming from ‘Kony’ fighting forces. This woman was given many items and she soon left us to our ordeal and to face press coverage as news reporters saw fit.

My daughters, aged 7 years and one month old, and I were put in a ‘camp’ in a small room with some unknown people to be fed and be rehabilitated. We were taught to make toys by some whitemen (munni), which were sent abroad for sale. I cannot make these toys and sell them in Uganda as they have no meanings to children here. This toy making has no use for me as I cannot sell them in Uganda.

After two years I was released from the rehabilitation place with no formal education. I cannot read or write. I have not been to proper school before. I was abducted only to level of Primary two. My mother tried to give me a little education. NGO had stopped supporting me and my daughters Alal and Aloyo because they said their work had come to an end and they had to move to another country.

Then I moved to another area and met my neighbour Florence, a widow herself empowered by Dr Phoebe Abe and running a group called ‘MAMA’ (Mon Acholi Maro Awak), meaning Acholi women like collective efforts. This is part of Dr Abe’s Foundation. They have a small four acre farm.

Ato digging heaps of soil for sweet potatoes ready for planting.

They introduced me to the group and since then I have been growing crops such as rice, cassava, potatoes, fruits and rearing animals such as pigs and chickens, and I sell them to help with my children’s school fee requirements. I am now concentrating on rehabilitating myself and making sure that I give Alal and Aloyo proper education so they can reach the standard set by Dr Abe as an example to all our girls. They have met Dr Abe and she has promised to work together with us to help achieve our goals.

Dr Abe said all the children and their mothers must be empowered and get the highest education we can get within our reach. And she said we must never give up on our dreams. NEVER.

Finally, I want to practice every day with my walking till I reach the Olympic Games and win gold medal just for Apiyo. Nothing is going to stop me now! I promised Dr Abe I will never give up!

Training to win the Olympics is difficult, but not impossible, and I am going to do everything possible to train to succeed. If I could get sponsorship it would even be better. The women in ‘MAMA’ are helping me by finding good Acholi food for me to eat and helping with my daughters when I go to do my walking exercise. Dr Abe has bought me my walking gear and written a diet for me to follow weekly. At present I am walking at 6 miles an hour which is not good for world record. I will train, train and train. Remember, I am walking for Apiyo.

Apiyo I will remember you and everybody will remember you as you walk with me to win that Olympic Gold medal.

“Walking for Apiyo” is part of Dr Abe’s new book: “SURVIVORS FLOCKING TOGETHER” to be launched in October onThe Black History month October 2015

“I WILL NEVEr GIVE UP AND SUCCUMB To DESPAIr”


I am walking for Ato and I will see you at the Olympics and please line that route and cheer me on for victory and let us remember my friend Apiyo. As you can see I have the 4Ps of Passion, Persistence, Patience and Purpose to SUCCEED.

After walking for Apiyo, Ato’s hope is to:

* Continue working and empowering all the widows, orphans, single mothers and youths in her community

* Continue to work with her women folks and Continue to work with her women folks and together in the community raise a high standard for the people therein.

* Give her girls the best education a person should Give her girls the best education a person should have and let them excel their potentials and follow their destiny according to the word of the Lord.

It was in trusting God and having faith that has helped Ato to say, “I could not merely give up and succumb to despair while in the wilderness.”

PLEASE DoNATE To EMPoWEr ATo To WALK THE WALK in olympic 2016 JUST For API�o’S rEMEMBrANCE!

All donations through

Dr Abe’s Foundation charity number: 9335401

CEO DR ABE FOUNDATION Telephone: 0782 4774929 Email: [email protected] Website: www.drabefoundation.com

Ato’s daily routines worked out by Dr. Phoebe Abe supported by women from ‘MAMA’ group affiliate of Dr. Abe Foundation. Dr Abe has got her routine and diet worked out and that she is being supported by ‘MAMA’ and MEGA FM Radio in Northern Uganda.

Dr Phoebe Abe MBChB MScCTM General Practitioner at Yiewsley Family Practice Yiewsley Health Centre YIEWSLEY. MIDDX. UB7 7DP 01895 435377

“Walking for Apiyo” is part of Dr Abe’s new book: “SURVIVORS FLOCKING TOGETHER” to be launched in October onThe Black History month October 2015

“I WILL NEVEr GIVE UP AND SUCCUMB To DESPAIr”

PLEASE DoNATE To EMPoWEr ATo ATO practicing the walk daily

Share your stories, photos, views and videos with us by emailing [email protected]

To join the Media Champions Scheme - see page 30

FGM Impact: The Feminine Pain Dahabo Ali Muse is a Somali poet and female genital mutilation (FGM) survivor. ‘The Feminine Pain’ expresses the agony of the procedure and the multiple ways in which the practice damages the health of women. The poem describes two universal moments shaping many women’s lives; having their first sexual experience and childbirth.

Muse brings out the tragedy of FGM by contrasting how she imagines these events to happen, and then how they really happen. Muse makes you imagine how differently such basic experiences would have been for if you’d gone through them while experiencing the intense pain caused by female genital mutilation.

Community mojatu.com�0

I was actually proud to give an empowering speech to inspire and help people insure their possibilities. I then started thinking about the role of women in politics.

When I asked about women in politics, I realised how much women were under-represented as voters, as well as in leading positions, whether in elected organization, public service, private sector or academic world. This happens regardless of their proven abilities as leaders and negotiators of change, and their right to contribute equally in democratic governance. The woman - I look at her from different angles and I think of:

- The woman who experiences very painful childbirth, - The woman who breast feeds, - The woman who is the ‘Heart of the home’; the mother, - The woman who is the cook, the cleaner, the carer, the taxi driver... - The woman with the brain, the desire, and the perseverance to lead, who is

committed and determined to fulfil her potential and leave her mark. In politics, women have been facing several barriers to joining any party. Structural obstacles through discriminatory laws and institutions were limiting women’s options to run for office. I personally don’t believe in ‘capability gaps’ when it comes to classifying women as less likely than men to have the education, contacts and resources needed to become effective leaders. Women seem to have seen it all in personal and professional life, so what makes political life so different to her other experiences?

I have always mentioned ‘Les Brown’ when I’m asked about how I become a Motivational Speaker – I heard his voice, a phrase and decided to listen to him. I discovered my passion through him. Les Brown is a motivational speaker, former Ohio politician, popular author, radio DJ, and former host of The Les Brown Show. As a politician, he is a former member of the Ohio House of Representatives. As a motivational

speaker, he uses the catch phrase, "It's possible," and teaches people to follow their dreams as he learned to do.

If you ask me how I became interested in finding out more about politics, at least the part which, I believe everyone should know so we can help build a better future for everyone. I would say Mr Alok Sharma, the Member of Parliament for Reading West, Berkshire UK.

mojatu.com Berkshire connected Community ��

Every time, I listen to what he has to say, I realise that he doesn’t speak about who he is, he always focus on people. Listening to him made me forget about which party he actually represents because he only highlights the pain and the gain, the solution and the appropriate action in his community. He acts as any local person who cares, a man who has been elected for a district in his home town. I was curious to know what a Member of Parliament really has to do and I started to check and follow Mr A. Sharma’s progress and his promises to surprisingly see him perform as he says. Alok Sharma does work with local residents, on issues and campaigns across the borough and has been doing a lot to help absolutely everyone. He pays special attention to people from different ethnic backgrounds and is always available for whoever wants to see him to discuss any matter with him. CMNetwork organisation for instance, would have never had the privilege to celebrate the “International Women’s Day” in the House of Parliament in Westminster, London, without Mr Alok Sharma, The MP of Reading, Berkshire UK.

Thanks to Mr Alok Sharma, I decided to understand what do women in politics do and why. Why a woman would leave her job or, put in danger her career to follow a tiring job in politics?

- One of the women in politics answered: “If not me, who? If not now, when?”

Mikulski, a role model for generations of women in politics who is actually retiring from senate in 2016 after 30 years. She told a news conference in Baltimore that “there’s nothing gloomy about this announcement and that she isn’t frustrated with the Senate.” Rather, she said, she decided that it made more sense at this stage of life to shift her focus: “Do I spend my time raising money or raising hell to meet your day-to-day needs?” Sometimes it feels like the luck of knowledge or information makes people say “I hate politics!” If we think in a different way, why not give somebody a support to make what we want to say heard rather than rejecting without giving a chance to who cares. Take the example of me for instance, I have chosen to trust to be the “X” restaurant’s customer not because it’s a British restaurant that provides alcohol and ham which I don’t do, because this restaurant provides Gluten free, vegetarian and halal meat. It always provides me with a solution for my wheat intolerance and more. So if I look at this “X” restaurant with a political eye, I see “Gain” no matter if it’s a British, French, Italian or Indian restaurant.

Women politicians serve as role models, inspiring other women to political activity. Female role models affect both women's mental and emotional engagement but this seems to have less impact on women's active participation. Women are more likely to discuss and participate in politics. On the other hand, young girls don’t discuss politics or have in mind to take part in politics. The presence of female MPs registers the same effect on political discussion regardless of age, but the impact on women's political activity is far greater among the young than the

Community mojatu.com��

Every time, I listen to what he has to say, I realise that he doesn’t speak about who he is, he always focus on people. Listening to him made me forget about which party he actually represents because he only highlights the pain and the gain, the solution and the appropriate action in his community. He acts as any local person who cares, a man who has been elected for a district in his home town. I was curious to know what a Member of Parliament really has to do and I started to check and follow Mr A. Sharma’s progress and his promises to surprisingly see him perform as he says. Alok Sharma does work with local residents, on issues and campaigns across the borough and has been doing a lot to help absolutely everyone. He pays special attention to people from different ethnic backgrounds and is always available for whoever wants to see him to discuss any matter with him. CMNetwork organisation for instance, would have never had the privilege to celebrate the “International Women’s Day” in the House of Parliament in Westminster, London, without Mr Alok Sharma, The MP of Reading, Berkshire UK.

Thanks to Mr Alok Sharma, I decided to understand what do women in politics do and why. Why a woman would leave her job or, put in danger her career to follow a tiring job in politics?

- One of the women in politics answered: “If not me, who? If not now, when?”

Mikulski, a role model for generations of women in politics who is actually retiring from senate in 2016 after 30 years. She told a news conference in Baltimore that “there’s nothing gloomy about this announcement and that she isn’t frustrated with the Senate.” Rather, she said, she decided that it made more sense at this stage of life to shift her focus: “Do I spend my time raising money or raising hell to meet your day-to-day needs?” Sometimes it feels like the luck of knowledge or information makes people say “I hate politics!” If we think in a different way, why not give somebody a support to make what we want to say heard rather than rejecting without giving a chance to who cares. Take the example of me for instance, I have chosen to trust to be the “X” restaurant’s customer not because it’s a British restaurant that provides alcohol and ham which I don’t do, because this restaurant provides Gluten free, vegetarian and halal meat. It always provides me with a solution for my wheat intolerance and more. So if I look at this “X” restaurant with a political eye, I see “Gain” no matter if it’s a British, French, Italian or Indian restaurant.

Women politicians serve as role models, inspiring other women to political activity. Female role models affect both women's mental and emotional engagement but this seems to have less impact on women's active participation. Women are more likely to discuss and participate in politics. On the other hand, young girls don’t discuss politics or have in mind to take part in politics. The presence of female MPs registers the same effect on political discussion regardless of age, but the impact on women's political activity is far greater among the young than the

old. Yes, women with influence and power do have the ability to transform a generation and female political role models have an empowering effect on women and a greater impact on families but why isn’t it there no increase in numbers then?

Women need to support each other - Margaret Thatcher set the stage for all women across the world. She made everyone realise and believe that women are perfectly capable to succeed in politics. To all women of the world, The daughters, the mothers, the aunts, the wives, the grandmothers, the sisters, the soul sisters, the ultimate nurturers, Please do stand up and embrace your inner greatness! It’s time to empower yourselves! Every woman has the ability to take charge of her life with power, strength, and confidence including YOU. You have the right and the power to be happy and to fulfil your potential. Live the life of your dreams, it will change your life and help change other women’s lives. And please remember, An empowered woman knows who she is and what she wants, she never stop learning. Have you ever gone out and had a drink, all alone with just yourself for company? Being comfortable with who you are, and knowing that you are strong enough to face any situation on your own, is an empowering feeling. An empowered woman makes deep connections, both personal and professional - when you help others, you help yourself. An empowered woman gives back to the community in any way she can and she’s always rewarded in more ways than one. Don’t be afraid to go after your dreams. No dream is too big or unobtainable. An empowered woman knows that she can achieve anything she sets out to do, it is simply a matter of perseverance, believing in yourself, and following your heart. Andy Harrington a top London Speaker said something that remained in my head – I share it with you; “Why are you trying so hard to fit in... when you were born to stand out?”

If you truly believe in your dreams you can make them happen. Empower others; this is the most rewarding action of all. Encourage people to try hard, help them to discover their full potential. If your behaviour or success is or can be emulated by others, especially by younger people then you can say you are a role model too. Never allow someone’s opinion of you becomes your reality! If you believe in what you see, you can make everyone see it! By Nadine Demontfaucon International Speaker and Confidence Coach [email protected]

mojatu.com Berkshire connected Community �3

mojatu.comHealth & Food��

1. �� d��d��.As the brain doesn’t “register” them as food, therefore people don’t automatically compensate by eating less of other foods, and end up drastically increasing their calorie intake. Sugar is strongly linked to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and is also associated with various serious diseases, including type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Al��v��:Drink water, soda water, coffee or tea instead.

2. �� ld�� l��ld��l��j��d��.The problem is that most commercially prepared pizzas are made with seriously unhealthy ingredients. The dough is made from highly refined wheat flour, and the meats on them are usually processed. Pizza is also extremely high in calories.

Al��v��: Some pizza places use healthier ingredients. Homemade pizzas can also be very healthy, as long as you choose wholesome ingredients.

3. �� d�� ll�� d�� d��ll��d��l��.All wheat-based breads are a bad idea for people who have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. However, most commercial breads are unhealthy for everyone, because most are made from refined wheat, which is low in essential nutrients and leads to rapid spikes in blood sugar.

Al��v��: For people who can tolerate gluten, Ezekiel bread is an excellent choice. Whole grain bread is also definitely better than white bread.

4. �� d �� l��.��d��l��. However, many fruit juices are actually little more than fruit-flavoured sugar water. Juice does contain some antioxidants and vitamin C, however it also contains just as much sugar as a sugary drink like Coke, and sometimes even more.

Al��v��: Some fruit juices have been shown to have health benefits despite the sugar content, such as pomegranate and blueberry. Water is still the best alternative.

5. ��d��l ��l�� l��.��d��l��l��l��. In the last 100 years or so, people have increased their consumption of added fats due to a drastic increase in the consumption of refined vegetable oils such as soybean, corn,

cottonseed and canola. These oils are very high in omega-6 fatty acids, highly sensitive to oxidation and cause increased oxidative stress in the body. They have also been linked to increased risk of cancer.

Al��v��: Use healthier fats like coconut oil, butter, extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil instead.

6. �� l�� d ��d��d��l��d��d��d��d��l��d��l��. It is loaded with artificial ingredients, and is usually made with industrial vegetable oils that have been hydrogenated to make them more solid. This increases their trans-fat content significantly.

Al��v��: Use real butter instead, preferably from grass-fed cows.

7. �� d ��d�� - Most pastries, cookies and cakes are made with refined sugar, refined wheat flour and added fats, which are often disturbingly unhealthy fats like shortening (high in trans-fats). With almost no essential nutrients, but tons of calories and unhealthy ingredients, they are literally some of the worst things that you can put into your body.

8. �� d �� :��d��: Whole, white potatoes are very healthy. However, products that are made from them, such as fries and potato chips, are very high in calories, and it is easy to eat excessive amounts. These foods may also contain large amounts of acrylamides, carcinogenic substances that form when potatoes are fried, baked or roasted.

Al��v��: Potatoes are best consumed boiled, not fried. If you need something crunchy to replace potato chips, try baby carrots or nuts.

9. �l�� d��.�l��d��. There are many gluten-free diets. However, people replace the gluten foods with junk gluten-free processed foods which are often high in sugar, unhealthy oils and refined grains like corn starch or tapioca starch. These refined starches lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar, and are extremely low in essential nutrients.

Al��v��: Choose foods that are naturally gluten-free, like unprocessed plants and animal foods.

10. A��v�� :A��v��: Agave nectar is a highly refined sweetener that is often marketed as healthy. It is extremely high in fructose and can be disastrous for

18��d��A��d��Y��H��l��Av��d��!By Kris Gunnars and Edited by Emily Lonergan & Irene Amandi

health. Whereas table sugar contains 50% fructose, and high fructose corn syrup around 55%, agave nectar is 85% fructose.

Al��v��: Stevia and erythritol are healthy, natural and calorie free.

11. �� Y��:��Y��: Yogurt can be incredibly healthy. Unfortunately, most yogurts are loaded with sugar to make up for the lack of taste that the fats provided. They are made ‘healthy’ by replacing natural dairy fats removed, with much worse ingredients.

Al��v��: Choose regular, full-fat yogurt that contains live or active cultures (probiotics). If you can get your hands on it, choose yogurt from grass-fed cows.

12. �� d��:��d��:Processed low-carb replacement products, such as low-carb candy bars and meal replacements, are often highly processed foods and contain very little actual nutrition. There are plenty of real foods that you can eat on a low-carb diet, most of which are very healthy.

Al��v��: If you’re on a low-carb diet, eat foods that are naturally low in carbs.

13. �� l�� d�� l��d��l��. Most commercial ice cream is loaded with sugar, high in calories, and it is very easy to eat excessive amounts. Eating it for dessert is even worse, because then you’re adding it all on top of your total calorie intake.

Al��v��: It is possible to make your own ice cream using healthier ingredients and significantly less (or no) sugar.

14. �� flo��p�oc��f��. They are also very low in essential nutrients. A candy bar may taste good and cause some short-term satiety, but you’ll be hungry again very quickly because of the way these high-

sugar treats are metabolized.

Al��v��: Eat a piece of fruit instead, or a piece of real high-cocoa dark chocolate.

15. ��d ��.��d��.Even though unprocessed meat can be healthy and nutritious, processed meats lead to higher risks of many serious diseases, including colon cancer, type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Al��v��: If you want to eat bacon, sausages, pepperoni and other “processed” meats, then choose wisely and try to buy them locally from sellers who don’t add a lot of unhealthy ingredients. Quality counts.

16. ��d ��.��d��. Regular cheese is healthy. It is loaded with nutrients, and a single slice of cheese contains all the same nutrients as an entire glass of milk. However, processed cheese products are mostly made with filler ingredients that are combined and engineered to have a similar look and texture as cheese. Read labels, and make sure that you eat actual not processed cheese.

Al��v��: Eat real cheese instead.

17. �� d ��l��.��d��l��.This is because generally most “fast food” chains serve only junk foods.The majority of the food they offer is mass-produced, highly engineered junk food with very little nutritional value.

18. H��l�� :H��l��:Coffee is very healthy. It is loaded with antioxidants which helps lower risks of serious diseases, like type 2 diabetes and Parkinson’s.However, coffee with artificial creamer and added sugar is just as unhealthy as any other sugar-sweetened beverage.

Al��v��: Drink plain coffee instead. Black is best, but small amounts of heavy cream or full-fat milk are fine as well.

Health & Food ��Berkshire connectedmojatu.com

health. Whereas table sugar contains 50% fructose, and high fructose corn syrup around 55%, agave nectar is 85% fructose.

Al��v��: Stevia and erythritol are healthy, natural and calorie free.

11. �� Y��:��Y��: Yogurt can be incredibly healthy. Unfortunately, most yogurts are loaded with sugar to make up for the lack of taste that the fats provided. They are made ‘healthy’ by replacing natural dairy fats removed, with much worse ingredients.

Al��v��: Choose regular, full-fat yogurt that contains live or active cultures (probiotics). If you can get your hands on it, choose yogurt from grass-fed cows.

12. �� d��:��d��:Processed low-carb replacement products, such as low-carb candy bars and meal replacements, are often highly processed foods and contain very little actual nutrition. There are plenty of real foods that you can eat on a low-carb diet, most of which are very healthy.

Al��v��: If you’re on a low-carb diet, eat foods that are naturally low in carbs.

13. �� l�� d�� l��d��l��. Most commercial ice cream is loaded with sugar, high in calories, and it is very easy to eat excessive amounts. Eating it for dessert is even worse, because then you’re adding it all on top of your total calorie intake.

Al��v��: It is possible to make your own ice cream using healthier ingredients and significantly less (or no) sugar.

14. �� flo��p�oc��f��. They are also very low in essential nutrients. A candy bar may taste good and cause some short-term satiety, but you’ll be hungry again very quickly because of the way these high-

sugar treats are metabolized.

Al��v��: Eat a piece of fruit instead, or a piece of real high-cocoa dark chocolate.

15. ��d ��.��d��.Even though unprocessed meat can be healthy and nutritious, processed meats lead to higher risks of many serious diseases, including colon cancer, type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Al��v��: If you want to eat bacon, sausages, pepperoni and other “processed” meats, then choose wisely and try to buy them locally from sellers who don’t add a lot of unhealthy ingredients. Quality counts.

16. ��d ��.��d��. Regular cheese is healthy. It is loaded with nutrients, and a single slice of cheese contains all the same nutrients as an entire glass of milk. However, processed cheese products are mostly made with filler ingredients that are combined and engineered to have a similar look and texture as cheese. Read labels, and make sure that you eat actual not processed cheese.

Al��v��: Eat real cheese instead.

17. �� d ��l��.��d��l��.This is because generally most “fast food” chains serve only junk foods.The majority of the food they offer is mass-produced, highly engineered junk food with very little nutritional value.

18. H��l�� :H��l��:Coffee is very healthy. It is loaded with antioxidants which helps lower risks of serious diseases, like type 2 diabetes and Parkinson’s.However, coffee with artificial creamer and added sugar is just as unhealthy as any other sugar-sweetened beverage.

Al��v��: Drink plain coffee instead. Black is best, but small amounts of heavy cream or full-fat milk are fine as well.

Take Home:Avoid anything that is high in added sugar, Refined Grains, vegetable Oils and Artificial trans-fats. These are some of the unhealthiest (and most common) ingredients in the modern diet. Remember:· Always Read Labels· Real food does not need an ingredients list, because real food IS the ingredient.Processed foods are often engineered to be super tasty (so you eat more), and have been designed to be eaten easily and quickly.

Business & Finance�� mojatu.com

YouTH & FINANCIAl HeAlTH By Mercy Njoki Newtons

Life is all about earning and spending money. The urge to earn hits us first at a young age when the provision from our parents is not sufficient to uphold the arising lifestyle changes. As a result most of us rush for any income-earning opportunity, regardless of the consequences.

Sometime last year, Mum asked me to buy some stock for her shop at a manufacturing factory. She sent me some cash for it through my mobile phone. I got some time off school to go purchase them and have them delivered to her back at home. By 10 am I was at the factory, the materials I needed already packed in the truck. I followed the sales manager to his office to close the forty thousand purchases and sign the documents, confident that the money was still in my phone. The sales manager then gave me the company’s account number so that I could transfer the cash.

“Sorry we cannot complete the requested transaction; your account balance is Ksh 10”. That’s the response that I got after the first attempt to transact. I thought it was a joke! Everyone was looking at me, waiting for me to complete the transaction. I attempted a second, third and fourth time, but the response was still the same. By then I was praying hard for the earth swallow me and hide from the ensuing shame and disbelief. I just didn’t know what to say to him.

Without a word, I contacted the customer care of my mobile banking, who told me that 2 hrs earlier, a Ksh 40,000 transfer was made from my phone, but wouldn’t give me any more details. The manager already had an idea of what was going on from the calls I made. I explained that the money was in my account that morning, but wasn’t now and that I was told it was transferred to another account during the time I was heading to the factory. I had met with only two people then, my cousin and a close friend.

Everything was taken back to the store room and, traumatised, I left to go find out what happened.

After some serious investigations, the truth came out. It was my friend who had made the transactions. By then she had already used 90% of the cash to buy fancy makeup

kits, dresses and other expensive items. Later, the girl’s family refunded the money and I was able to make my purchases. I just couldn’t understand why one would steal just to acquire such things.

It became clear to me how much people are willing to do just to live up to the standards of others. It’s time we stopped imagining how more beautiful your life could be with that extra fancy bag and how to get it, and instead focus on how to earn it.

HEALTHY EARNING

This is the perfect time to set up your financial basis, which starts with understanding and implementing various financial disciplines. If you just rely on others for money you will never succeed, as your success will be solely determined on how long it takes them to cater for your needs. The best thing to do is find things to do to earn for yourself honestly.

If you think you have nothing to start with, then you’re wrong. You’ve got you! Go get that job most don’t want to do and do it. And as soon as you earn something, invest it. If you rely so much on being employed, remember that one day your employer’s money might not be enough for all your needs. Start that small job, then when you think about that extra

bag, the investment will be there to take care of it.

Don’t just love spending money; spend it to build

something that will supply you when that amount

is gone. There’s always something that you can always do. That ice cream joint you wish you had in

your street, don’t wait for someone to come

do it, get on it yourself, as there’s nothing sweeter than

earning your own money!

Mercy Njoki Newtons is a 1st Year Student at Kenyatta University in Kenya

mojatu.com Education & CareerBerkshire connected ��

Your CV is often the first impression a hiring manager has of you and often you will only have a few seconds to grab their attention and leave them wanting to read more and invite you in for an interview. It is essential that you get this vital piece of communication right and use it as a springboard to the next stage of the job search.

1. Insufficient contact details

Make sure your CV clearly details your full name, address and contact details for a prospective employer to reach you, including phone numbers and email address. This may sound obvious but some candidates omit key contact information or have outdated contact details. If your email address reads particularly unprofessionally (eg hotbabe) or is a work email it may be worthwhile using a different one for correspondence with employers.

2. No objective

CVs should begin with a clear and concise objective citing the position you are seeking and a supporting short skills statement summarising the reason you are highly qualified for this role; e.g. “Seeking a senior marketing analyst role where I can apply my 3 years’ experience in marketing analysis gained with a leading Fortune 500 FMCG company as well as my skills in copywriting, strategic analysis, business development, client servicing and media planning.” The goal of the CV is to outline what you can do for your prospective employer, not what your employer can do for you.

3. Passive language

Active verbs that show leadership and accomplishments such as achieved, spearheaded, managed, exceeded, pioneered, led and developed conveys an active, dynamic successful professional. Substitute all weak descriptive sentences for sentences that detail accomplishments strongly. E.g. instead of “Managed the firm’s emerging markets equity portfolio” try “Managed and achieved a 34% annualized return on the firm’s flagship GBP100 million emerging markets equity portfolio.”

4. Lack of focus

Every CV should focus on the particular job and industry you are targeting. If applying to jobs in 2 different industries

make sure you have different CVs that cater specifically to the different skills. The best CVs are customised for the individual job and emphasise objectives, skillsets, past accomplishments, aptitudes and qualifications that are uniquely relevant to that role.

5. Poor formatting

Your CV will get no more than a cursory glance if the formatting is poor and it shows bad planning, poor organisation or clutter. Adhere to an acceptable format that is professional, simple and attractive to the eye. Use bullet points wherever possible rather than long, winding prose and be consistent with font, headings and layout. Aim to keep your CV to 1 page for entry level and 2 pages for a seasoned professional.

6. No proofreading

Spelling mistakes, poor grammar and glaring errors are a surefire way to get your CV dismissed. Read and reread your CV before sending it to the employer, run a spellcheck and have someone else read it for an extra check before sending it out.

7. Lies

Lies and half-truths will always be discovered so omit them from the

start. If you have not finished a university degree make that clear on your CV without neglecting to include the coursework you did complete and the educational accomplishments you have. Similarly, do not list promotions, jobs, titles, dates or job descriptions that do not accurately reflect your work history. Most companies run detailed background checks and lies and exaggerations that are not glaringly obvious on the CV or at the interview will often be discovered at the reference or background check.

8. Poor targeting

Make sure you send your CV to the right person at the company and accompany it with a short, concise cover letter that personalises it and summarises your skills, objectives and the value you will bring to the job. Spend some time researching who heads the division you are targeting and send your introductory CV and cover letter directly to them. Your CV is likely to be disregarded completely if you send it to the wrong person or to a nameless “To Whom It May Concern”.

Top CV Mistakes to Avoid

Education & Career�� mojatu.com

Mojatu Foundation has been raising awareness, sensitising communities and empowering survivors to be the driving force for tackling FGM by giving them a voice and engaging them in discussions, decision making and events aimed at tackling FGM.

Mojatu Foundation in collaboration with Nottingham Trent University and other local, national and international organisations tackling FGM invite you to our “International Conference: Ending Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Together,” to be held:

Date: 3rd September 2015 from 9am-4.30pm

Venue: Nottingham Conference Centre, Burton Street, Nottingham, NG1 4BU

All delegates MUST have tickets

The key people involved in the planning of this conference are FGM survivors themselves supported by the Community FGM Steering Group initiated by Mojatu Foundation to support the efforts to safeguard and protect children at risk and also support survivors living with the consequences of FGM.

The Conference deliberations will be on the following themes and how they impact on ending FGM. These are Gender equality and women’s empowerment, Training and Education, religion, Media, Law and Language, arts and culture.

This conference will bring together local, national and international speakers and delegates comprising of FGM survivors, FGM campaigners, members of the practicing communities, religious leaders, local authorities, health and education specialist, women’s organisations, the police, journalists, and other multi-disciplinary professionals.

It will bring to life the realities of FGM by facilitating personal accounts of survivors living with consequences of FGM and their journeys to protect and safeguard those at risk and support other survivors. It is also a fantastic learning and networking opportunity.

The conference is a follow-up of the national FGM conference that took place in February 2015 and will explore the work being done in tackling FGM. It will also explore good practices from other organisations tackling FGM within the UK and beyond.

During the conference, the Mojatu FGM Logo, now adopted as a symbol of local coordinated work by

International Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Conference

• I in 4 people will experience some kind of mental health problems in the course of their life time.

• About 23% of all years lost because of disability is caused by mental health and substance use disorder

• Around 20% of the world’s children and adolescents have mental health disorders or problems in a year and about 10% at any given time.

• About 800,000people commit suicide every year. It is the second leading cause of death in 15-29 year olds. 75% of suicides occur in the low and middle-income countries. 4 out

5 who commit suicide are male.• Stigma and discrimination

against patients and families prevent people from seeking mental health care.

• Depression affects 1 in every 5 older people living in the community and 2in 5 living in the care homes.

• UK has the highest rate of self-harm in Europe: 400 per 100,000 population

• Only 1 in 10 prisoners has no mental disorder.

• Overall, inpatients from the Black Caribbean, Black African and other Black groups are 33-44% times more likely to be detained under the

mental Health Act 1983 when compared with the average for all inpatients.

These statistics are alarming and it is the reason different communities rally together to address the issue of mental health. Utulivu women therefore have launched the ‘Add LIFE to your life’ project which will focus on well-being. They have planned to run various health sessions in the community once a month until April 2016.

For more details Visit www.utulivu.co.uk Email [email protected] or contact 07828307997

STrIKING STATISTICS

Utulivu launches ‘Add LIFE To �our Life’.There is no health without mental health.

Mental health problems are found in people of all ages, religions, countries and societies.

mojatu.com Berkshire connected Classifieds ��

Mojatu Foundation has been raising awareness, sensitising communities and empowering survivors to be the driving force for tackling FGM by giving them a voice and engaging them in discussions, decision making and events aimed at tackling FGM.

Mojatu Foundation in collaboration with Nottingham Trent University and other local, national and international organisations tackling FGM invite you to our “International Conference: Ending Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Together,” to be held:

Date: 3rd September 2015 from 9am-4.30pm

Venue: Nottingham Conference Centre, Burton Street, Nottingham, NG1 4BU

All delegates MUST have tickets

The key people involved in the planning of this conference are FGM survivors themselves supported by the Community FGM Steering Group initiated by Mojatu Foundation to support the efforts to safeguard and protect children at risk and also support survivors living with the consequences of FGM.

The Conference deliberations will be on the following themes and how they impact on ending FGM. These are Gender equality and women’s empowerment, Training and Education, religion, Media, Law and Language, arts and culture.

This conference will bring together local, national and international speakers and delegates comprising of FGM survivors, FGM campaigners, members of the practicing communities, religious leaders, local authorities, health and education specialist, women’s organisations, the police, journalists, and other multi-disciplinary professionals.

It will bring to life the realities of FGM by facilitating personal accounts of survivors living with consequences of FGM and their journeys to protect and safeguard those at risk and support other survivors. It is also a fantastic learning and networking opportunity.

The conference is a follow-up of the national FGM conference that took place in February 2015 and will explore the work being done in tackling FGM. It will also explore good practices from other organisations tackling FGM within the UK and beyond.

During the conference, the Mojatu FGM Logo, now adopted as a symbol of local coordinated work by

the City and County FGM Strategy Board including Safeguarding boards will be launched. It will also launch the local FGM referral pathway being developed. The upcoming FGM training programmes and curriculum to be launched by University of Nottingham later this year will also be unveiled.

Who can attend�1. FGM survivors 2. FGM campaigners and activists 3. Religious leaders 4. Young people and youth workers- 18 years and above 5. Commissioning managers / leads 6. Safeguarding leads/LSCB members 7. The Police 8. FGM Trust leads 9. Health and Wellbeing Board chairs / Public Health leads 10. Local authority leads / councillors/MPs 11. Community groups & 3rd sector organisations 12. GPs, midwives, nurses, health visitors, teachers, etc 13. Other multi-disciplinary professionals and individuals interested in FGM

LUNCH, ALL DA� rEFrESHMENTS, PENS AND WrITING MATErIALS WILL BE ProVIDED.

To sponsor this conference and support the end of FGM in a generation, please select one of the packages in the back page.

CoNTACT: Valentine Nkoyo

Director, Mojatu Foundation Phone: 0115 8457 009 Mob: 077 9437 2214

[email protected] 167 Alfreton Road, Nottingham, NG7 3JR

International Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Conference

TICKETS & rEGISTrATIoNEarly Bird £90 (Until 16th August 2015) Normal Price £120 (From 17th August 2015) Community Groups Free

orDEr TICKETS Online: http://goo.gl/xvlGoh

Phone: 0115 8457 009 Mob: 077 9437 2214 Email: [email protected]

Visit us: 167 Alfreton Road, Nottingham, NG7 3JR www.mojatufoundation.org

Utulivu launches ‘Add LIFE To �our Life’.There is no health without mental health.

Mental health problems are found in people of all ages, religions, countries and societies.

��YEv��

30 Classified mojatu.com

Leverage your unique strengths and be inspired and empowered toincorporate them in your life’s skills. Inspired and empowered peoplebath in their inspiration:

• Achieve health and wealth• Build strong family and social networks• Advance your career• Become a more positive ‘you’• Remove the obstacles

holding you back• Become an asset to your community• Develop your personal success plan

relationship dilemma and Financial well-being.She founded ‘’UTULIVU’’ organisation which got the Queens Award in 2011 for

voluntary service. Her motto in life has always been‘Aspiring To Inspire Before I Expire’.She is happily married with two children

Cecily Mwaniki

To get a copy,please contact:

T: +44 (0)1189072534M:+44(0)7859063643

[email protected] online at

www.mojatu.com/youcan

Scan to view& order books

Community Media Championsto help end FGM this generationJoIN!

Funded By Rosa Fund

T: 0115 845 7009 M: 07859063643 | 07794372214

E: [email protected]/mediachampions

Mojatu Foundation is recruiting and training individuals, mainly those most affected by FGM, to develop skills and confidence

to become Community Media Champions. The trainees are empowered to tell their individual and community stories, while helping to capture, store and share contents, images and other

information online, on mobiles and in print.

This will increase, among others, FGM awareness while providing opportunities for support of FGM survivors. It will also allow participants to shape the direction of their communities by

impacting on the media coverage on all types of information including what is being done in tackling FGM and other social

needs within their communities.

Training - You will receive local and online training and resources to help you collect, edit, store and disseminate information on FGM

and other community focused information. Media training | FGM training and awareness | Other training and skills

By joining the Community Media Champions program you will become involved a wide variety of community engagement, media

and awareness activities.

You will receive- Business cards | Video camera | Dictaphone | Mobile phone with calling credit | Travelling allowance

Partners

System and Laptop Packages

Quantity deals a�aila�lea�aila�le Pallet, 20ft and 40ft containers

WorldWide Shipping!

We can supply all tier one brands such as dell, hp, compaq, toshiba

and many more.

Stock is fully tested 2nd user with warranty

Please call or Email for our latest export offers.

Tel: +44 (0)203 6278 078 e: [email protected] www.mojatu.com/it

Computer export Companyoffering trade priCes on

mojatu.com Nottingham connected Classified 3�

Leverage your unique strengths and be inspired and empowered toincorporate them in your life’s skills. Inspired and empowered peoplebath in their inspiration:

• Achieve health and wealth• Build strong family and social networks• Advance your career• Become a more positive ‘you’• Remove the obstacles

holding you back• Become an asset to your community• Develop your personal success plan

relationship dilemma and Financial well-being.She founded ‘’UTULIVU’’ organisation which got the Queens Award in 2011 for

voluntary service. Her motto in life has always been‘Aspiring To Inspire Before I Expire’.She is happily married with two children

Cecily Mwaniki

To get a copy,please contact:

T: +44 (0)1189072534M:+44(0)7859063643

[email protected] online at

www.mojatu.com/youcan

Scan to view& order books

Community Media Championsto help end FGM this generationJoIN!

Funded By Rosa Fund

T: 0115 845 7009 M: 07859063643 | 07794372214

E: [email protected]/mediachampions

Mojatu Foundation is recruiting and training individuals, mainly those most affected by FGM, to develop skills and confidence

to become Community Media Champions. The trainees are empowered to tell their individual and community stories, while helping to capture, store and share contents, images and other

information online, on mobiles and in print.

This will increase, among others, FGM awareness while providing opportunities for support of FGM survivors. It will also allow participants to shape the direction of their communities by

impacting on the media coverage on all types of information including what is being done in tackling FGM and other social

needs within their communities.

Training - You will receive local and online training and resources to help you collect, edit, store and disseminate information on FGM

and other community focused information. Media training | FGM training and awareness | Other training and skills

By joining the Community Media Champions program you will become involved a wide variety of community engagement, media

and awareness activities.

You will receive- Business cards | Video camera | Dictaphone | Mobile phone with calling credit | Travelling allowance

Partners

Phone: 0115 8457 009 Mob: 077 9437 2214Email: [email protected] or [email protected]: www.valentinenkoyo.com & www.mojatufoundation.org

Contacts: 167 Alfreton Road, Nottingham, NG7 3JRTwitter: mojatu1 Facebook: mojatuYouTube: mojatu

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��: 3rd Sep 2015 | ��: 9am - 4.30pm

��: Nottingham Conference Centre. Burton Street, Nottingham, NG1 4BU

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�r��E��A�� o Early Bird £90 o Full Cost £120

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order Tickets Online: http://goo.gl/xvlGohSponsorship options Brochure Inclusion* Price

Other Sponsorship Packages Price Double page £1,100 Biz Pack 1K - Logo, Small website, Domain, Hosting,

Business cards & Single sided A5 Leaflets (design & printing 500 units) £500

Back Page £900 Inside front page £750 Inside back page £750 Biz Pack 2K - Logo, small website, Business cards or

Complementary (design & printing 500 units) £300 Full page £600 1/2 Page £300 Tree adoption and plaque with your message £200 1/4 Page £180 Goat adoption – Visit it at Ecocentre Farm, Nottingham £100

*Special 5,000 copies of Mojatu Conference brochure will be printed and distributed before and during the conference. They will also be distributed online.

Together, we can surely end FGM in this generation! Logos to put: End FGM Mojatu Trent University Valentine Nkoyo

mojatu berkshire magazine b008

Documents