SEASON 2
Episode 3: Welcome home
Jonaliese has an unexpected reunion as we hear what it was like to reach the safety of the border and receive support from UNHCR.
“I could not hear any more bullet, I could not see any more blood.”
Life on the front line
Doris Mpoza, Protection Assistant for UNHCR in the Rwamwanja Refugee Settlement in Western Uganda.
What is the atmosphere like when people reach the safety of the settlement?
While some are visibly happy upon their arrival at a place that will be home for an unknown duration, for some refugees, they have somber/pensive looks possibly a reflection of what life holds for their families in a foreign country. There is also a sense of relief that one is finally safe from possibility of assault and threat to life and property.
You help provide people with essential items like blankets and sleeping mats. What item do you think it the most important?
It is difficult to say this item is more important than the other since they are all essential to basic needs. However, if I would choose just one, maybe a blanket. It can protect from the bad weather but also act as a mattress on dusty floor as well as a door on a temporary shelter for privacy.
You mention that people refer to UNHCR as ‘the mother’ can you elaborate on that, and how you think UNHCR plays such an important part in people’s lives?
UNHCR is viewed as a protector, provider and nurturer by the refugees. They often refer to the UNHCR logo as being a mother providing shelter and protection to her children. UNHCR ensures that in a time of uncertainty, the people can enjoy their rights to health, education, family, access to water, family planning, identification documents among others.
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Episode 4: The mother of invention
Jonaliese reveals a painful truth and shares her story of how she became a blacksmith with a successful business.
Episode 5: Wonder woman
Career Counselor, Olivia Nanyonga Nassiwa, shows us how Jonaliese is inspiring other people – especially women – to push themselves and create bright new futures.
Episode 6: Nerves of steel
UNHCR officer, Yonna Tukundane, explains how the progressive policies in Uganda are enabling refugees to thrive, while Jonaliese tells us what makes the difference between success and failure
Episode 7: Creating a better world
Jonaliese describes her plans for the future and leaves us with a message for the whole world to hear.
Episode 1: The Iron Lady
Meet Jonaliese Kubugho, a young woman with a will of iron. She’s a boss, a mother, a trainer, a translator and a refugee – building a successful business in a profession dominated by men.
Episode 2: Lost lives
We learn about the causes of conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Jonaliese describes the moment she was forced to flee, leaving her entire family behind.
Episode 3: Welcome home
Jonaliese has an unexpected reunion as we hear what it was like to reach the safety of the border and receive support from UNHCR.
All episode images: © UNHCR/Vincent Tremeau