My name is Christiana Charley. I am originally from Sierra Leone, West Africa. Currently, I am a third-year undergraduate student at Tallinn University. Since my arrival to Estonia, I have been desperately in search of an African community to compensate for the void of homesickness.
During the summer of 2020, I got to know about Think Africa through a friend, who was at the time doing an internship in Social media marketing. And briefly after joining the organization I familiarized myself with its goals, mission and functions.
Surprisingly, there was a description on the Think Africa webpage, that alluded to the organization as a Diaspora focused entity, which acts as a bridge between Finland and African countries. However, in a deeper meaning, I realized that Think Africa really is a comfort for Africans living in Finland.
I have worked as an interim with Think Africa for two months and I plan to continue as a volunteer member. I do love the community and all that it stands for. I was also asked as to what personally connects me to the mission of Think Africa, and my answer is related to my study in Social Science. For me it feels as though the organization directly caters to the works of social science practitioners, because of its community centeredness and activities dealing with social issues affecting the African Diaspora community in Finland.
Furthermore, Think Africa showcases the diversity of African culture through their organized events, platform and network partnerships. What more could a social practitioner, who is keen on empowerment and grassroot community advocacy desire as motivation to join such an organization.
Joining Think Africa exceeds all of my expectations, and I am very happy that such a support system exists in Finland. Honestly, Think Africa is an invigorating phenomenon. I attended the first group meeting on Thursday, the 13th of August 2020, and had the wonderful opportunity to meet members of the board, who dedicate their voluntary time ensuring the successful function of the organization.
In retrospect this meeting was for me an amazing experience. During those two hours, I got to personally know other members of the organization, discuss relevant organizational matters with them, evaluate individual volunteer’s weekly contributions, achievements and formulation of future goals.
In reflection I think of Think Africa ry, as a safe African space away from home. My message to others is an encouragement to volunteer now and seize the opportunity to gain a valuable lifetime experience for yourself. Learn how you can join through their website www.thinkafrica.fi
