This text was delivered as a speech on the evening of our Tenth Anniversary celebrations.
Ten years. A decade of change, challenges, and meaningful progress. As I stood before our gathered community at our anniversary celebration, the weight of this milestone struck me profoundly. The late hour and multiple cups of coffee aside, the moment demanded reflection on our collective journey.
Our path at Shabaka has been marked by triumph and sobering reality. While we celebrate our achievements as a team and organisation over these past ten years, we cannot ignore the bittersweet truth that our work remains as crucial. Perhaps even more so when we look at Myanmar, Sudan, Gaza, and many other parts of the world.
Our world faces unprecedented challenges. Global conflicts continue to reshape communities, the climate crisis accelerates, and economic uncertainties touch lives across every sphere of society. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the magnitude of these issues. Yet, this is precisely why we must remember to pause, breathe, and focus on what we can change. Progress, we’ve learned, only sometimes announces itself with fanfare. Instead, it often comes through small, incremental steps – each building upon the last to create meaningful change, even when the immediate impact might not be visible.
Shabaka’s position in this landscape has been clear from the start. Our foundational values – collaboration, integrity, transparency, and innovation – aren’t just words on paper. They’ve actively guided our mission to empower diaspora and migrant communities in the humanitarian ecosystem. This journey wouldn’t have been possible without the pillars of our community: our dedicated colleagues, committed partners, and steadfast allies who have shaped Shabaka’s narrative. We truly stand on the shoulders of giants.
The heart of our work lies with the resilient communities we serve – those near and far who face crises not merely as responders but as powerful agents of change. Our upcoming anthology, set for release in the new year, will share some remarkable stories and achievements.
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As we look to the future, change remains our constant companion. I’m excited to announce I will be stepping down as CEO, passing the leadership torch to Elvina Quiason as of 1st January. While I will continue working on special initiatives into the new year, Elvina will guide Shabaka’s next chapter, building upon our foundation while forging new paths.Â
Looking back over these ten years, I’m filled with profound gratitude for everyone who has been part of our story. Each person – whether staff member, partner, supporter, or community member – has contributed to weaving the rich tapestry that is Shabaka today.
As we enter the next decade, we remain committed to our core mission while embracing new opportunities to create change. Though the challenges ahead are significant, our community’s strength, resilience, and dedication give me unwavering hope for the future.
The greatest lesson these ten years have taught us is that change can transform lives, no matter how small it seems. When we work together, guided by shared values and a common purpose, we can create ripples that grow into waves of positive impact.
Here’s to the next chapter of Shabaka’s journey, the power of change, and all those who continue to make our work possible.
