This week marked the successful repatriation of the final three stranded African migrants, bringing closure to a long and challenging journey. Their ordeal, like many before them, was one of hardship, uncertainty, and survival in a foreign land. However, through the collective support of the community, faith-based organizations, and generous donors, their time in Hanoi became a life-changing experience. Beyond Shelter: Comprehensive Care &...
As we continued our commitment to support stranded African migrants in Hanoi, Batch 5 of repatriation—consisting of three individuals—was successfully completed in early 2025. This journey was not just about covering financial costs; it was about offering holistic support—spiritually, emotionally, and physically—while these migrants waited for their turn to return home.A Sustainable Approach: Spiritual Care & Fellowship Understanding...
The past few weeks have been intense and transformative as we worked to assist African migrants in critical conditions here in Hanoi. Many of them had been lured into coming to Vietnam by visa agents, only to find themselves stranded, undocumented, and homeless. While the situation was dire, our collective efforts made a tangible difference, proving once again that community, faith, and action can create real change.A Gathering of Concern &...
ZAMINA, whose dynamic fusion of Afrobeat, Highlife, and Afrofunk set the tone for the night. Their performance was a journey through sound, each track building upon the last, creating an atmosphere of pure joy and celebration.The evening was made even more special as we welcomed back our former band member, Jamir Adiong. Jamir, an Asian brother who had moved to Kenya to immerse himself in Afrobeat and reggae music, rejoined us on stage, bringing...
I reunited with my Asian-turned-African brother, Jamir Adiong, and the moment was nothing short of magical. It brought back a flood of memories—over 14 years of live Afrobeat music in Hanoi, countless late-night jam sessions, and the unforgettable energy of performing together. Seeing Jamir again after his time in Kenya, where he fully immersed himself in Afrobeat and reggae, felt like picking up right where we left off. Though years had...
It's already six months since we went to the site where stranded migrants had been living before our intervention that took them out of the streets to a home in Hanoi. We realized it was the best decision which was timely as the Dangerous Typhoon Yagi came and swept houses and illegal structures away just a few days after we moved these brothers to a home. It would have been a life-threatening experience for them to be sleeping on the street (by...
Following the effort to help restore displaced migrants as reported in the migrants story i wrote some weeks ago, "from the streets to a home", we remain committed to support stranded African migrants in Vietnam. We have witnessed both the challenges and triumphs of ensuring safe repatriation for those who found themselves in distressing circumstances. Letters had been written and meetings had been held and we are waiting for reply regarding...
“Having Mr. Ogunbawo come as a guest speaker was an incredible experience, and I was glad to hear a firsthand account from someone who was able to use his traditions and culture." .. Below is an article about how Concordia International School students are learning social justice through literature: Social Justice Literature Class Hosts Mr. Tomi Ogunbawo As part of their reading of Nigerian literary classic “Things Fall Apart” by Chinua...
The Citywide Peace Festival recently swept through our city, leaving a trail of joy and celebration that will linger for years to come. With an impressive attendance of about 15,000 people, the festival was a true testament to the power of joy, the celebration of diversity and unity. The energetic performance by Tomi and the African choir made a great kick-off of the Peace Festival. The Afrocalypso musical vibes filled the air, creating a unique...
I experienced live bass, rhythms, and groove that kept the night alive at Hanoi One Drop 2. This past May, we watched Hanoi’s Banana Island transform into a pulsating dance floor, filled with some of our friends and several Hanoians, all grooving to the lively sounds of Afrobeat, Reggae, and World Music. Hosted by The Gratoners, Zamina, and an incredible lineup of artists, this event was more than just a concert—it was a celebration of...
