Second COVID-19 Impact Forum

The experiences of women from African-Australian backgrounds

Africause promotes and advocates for social harmony and better understanding through conversation to provide insights and knowledge that will generate opportunities for change and support regarding these issues and will create positive impacts on organisations, government, community and the general public.

The night of the 28th of October 2020, Africause hold a successful free online forum, gathering 5 amazing women representative of different African communities living in Melbourne VIC who shared their experiences and thoughts regarding impact of COVID-19 lockdowns for them and their families.

During 90 minutes and with 45 attendees Sabrin Said powerfully moderated discussions for the forum, the speakers Fathi Yassin, Jemila Adam, Loza Tsegaye, Adongwot Manyoul and Shemsiya Waritu conversed about topics such as the impact of the pandemic on women from CALD backgrounds in Victoria, how has the pandemic affected family relationships and dynamics inside households, repercussions on children and their education, thoughts  regarding religious and cultural celebrations and their solutions and ideas to protect their family’s mental health.

Overall, these women have been able to manage the challenges of lockdowns. Those who are working from home have mentioned that they are working hard on maintaining a balance and setting boundaries to the diverse amount of responsibilities that they face every day. Another big challenge that was mentioned is struggle to maintain meaningful connection and communication with families for those who live far from their loved ones. It has been difficult for women to feel that they “are” there for their families and friends, especially because African communities are highly family orientated people, they have mentioned that, for example, a call is not enough when someone from the community has passed away.

On the other hand, women have highlighted that feeling gratitude about the positive things that they still have and the support they have had from community, organisations and government is one of the most important elements to overcome the challenges of the lockdowns. This characteristic has allowed them to support others less fortunate, like those who are not entitled for financial support. Women mentioned that the community has been supporting each other during this hard times in many other different aspects. However, there is still uncertainty about what the future looks like, what is going to happen now and what plans does the government have moving forward?

Below is the COVID-19 experience discussion recorded from the Forum