By Afraa Kori
While many leaders call on the need to fix what is broken, the more urgent need is to take immediate action.
Two young women in Werribee and Point Cook are leading by example and paving the way for action on global issues.
Dorcas Wilonja and Salma Mossi each lead a non-profit and volunteer-led organisation dedicated to empowering Congolese communities locally and globally.
As part of their first partnership, CPL and Salma Foundation will host a Goma fundraiser in Werribee from 12pm-5pm on May 11 at Riverwalk Park Village.
Founder of CPL, Dorcas Wilonja felt uncomfortable knowing vulnerable people are facing injustice in Goma.
“What motivated us to collaborate together was the fact that we are from Congo and wanted to help somehow with what has been going on in Goma,“ she explained.
“Goma is a place in Congo going through war for decades. Women are getting raped, children and men are murdered in front of their families. Many people are displaced from their homes due to the bombings. It’s been going on for so long that it has become the norm. Whenever someone tries to make a change, they don’t live for long unless they become allies.
“Some of us, our family members live in Goma, our friends and people we know. But focusing on Congo or Goma is not just a personal attachment, it is inhumane for this to go on until today.”
Ms Wilonja is also concerned that “many western countries profit from Congo” yet no one is creating fundraisers and awareness in Australia.
“There isn’t enough awareness on what is going on in Goma or Congo in general. And some people just don’t care enough, if their lives are not affected then why should they bother right?
“These iPhones and Androids that we have, they wouldn’t be made without the natural resources and minerals from Congo. You have children laboring and receiving close to $5 a month. At this point it’s not a Goma issue, it is a humanity issue. These are human beings who are being treated worse than animals!”
Founder of Salma Foundation, Salma Mossi said this is a season of giving voice to the voiceless and helping the helpless.
“It is very important, through this fundraising, many families will be able to access their everyday basic living needs and primary being food.”
“We can restore lost hopes and transform the lives of millions that are affected in Goma. They will know despite all that they are going through there are people somewhere thinking of them and will build hope that there is change coming. That one day they will see a light at the end of the tunnel and will heal from traumas that the unending wars and violence has caused them.”
Ms Mossi is calling on everyone to support Goma’s fundraiser because two is better than one.
“We can’t do it by ourselves without our African-Australians community and Australians coming together as one for a good cause and supporting those who are desperately in need. I believe together with our donations; no donation is too small and every coin matters.”
“The change we want to see in Goma and globally begins with us, taking a step forward and doing something no matter how small it is. It is better than no step at all, every big thing starts small.”
Wyndham Vale resident Friend Kighoma said the wider community not only recognise the ongoing efforts of CPL and Salma Foundation but have been inspired to take action in their own communities.
“I believe the community is doing their utmost to support these foundations, and it’s heartening to see how supportive they are. I hope this continues as it brings a sense of togetherness to our community,“ she said.
“I support them because they are amazing young women who are working tirelessly to improve our Congolese community, which is vital for our country, Congo (DRC).
“I am excited to attend the fundraiser! I am excited about the opportunity to give back to my community in Congo by volunteering my time and skills. I believe that through our efforts, we can make a positive impact and improve the lives of those in Goma.”
Additionally, locals and visitors can expect food, activities, stalls, live music and guest speakers at Goma’s fundraiser.
People are encouraged to donate to CPL gofund.me/b23c7072 and Salma’s Foundation gofund.me/ff06eaac
