When I left Cameroon in 2014, I did not realize that immigration would become far more than a geographic move. It would become a journey of growth, discovery, and inner transformation.

My path first took me to Cyprus, where I was immersed in a multicultural environment that taught me to observe, listen, and understand systems beyond surface appearances. Later, my time in the Maghreb profoundly reshaped my perspective. As a Sub-Saharan African woman, I encountered discrimination that challenged me deeply. Some experiences were painful; others were eye-opening.   All of them strengthened my resolve.

I came to understand that immigration does not only test our ability to adapt, it tests our inner resilience.

Determined not just to navigate systems but to help improve them, I collaborated with organizations such as GIZ, USAID, and UNESCO on projects focused on human rights, women’s empowerment, and social inclusion. These experiences revealed both the immense potential and the remarkable resilience within immigrant communities.

In 2023, I moved to Canada to pursue a master’s degree in social Innovation at Saint Paul University in Ottawa, an intentional step toward strengthening my ability to design impactful solutions.

Today, I serve as a Project Officer at ACFOMI for the Francophone Private Refugee Sponsorship Network in the Mille-Îles region. Through this role, I help raise awareness within the Francophone community about private sponsorship programs, to support integration grounded in dignity and autonomy.

Serving on the Board of IWSO is a natural extension of my commitment. Supporting newcomers is not only about information or services, it is about restoring confidence, valuing skills, and building inclusive communities where everyone can thrive.

Immigration transformed me.

Today, I choose to help transform it in return.

 Geraldine Tematio Medonnang