KEEP CALM: Angolan Researcher and Scholar Sofonie Dala Awarded Prestigious Chevening Scholarship to Study in the UK

 I cannot keep calm, I have been chosen for chevening 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

My name is Sofonie Dala, and today, I stand before you with immense pride and joy. I am thrilled to share that I have been chosen for the Chevening Scholarship, a remarkable achievement that fills me with boundless enthusiasm.

Chevening is not just a scholarship; it is a transformative experience that offers the opportunity to study at prestigious institutions across the UK, develop leadership skills, and foster global connections. This program embodies the spirit of inclusivity and empowerment, aligning seamlessly with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 and 10.

SDG 4, Quality Education, emphasizes the importance of education in driving progress and equality. Chevening epitomizes this goal by providing world-class educational opportunities without discrimination. Regardless of race, disability, religion, gender, or age, Chevening stands as a beacon of hope for those eager to expand their horizons and make a meaningful impact.

Similarly, SDG 10, Reduced Inequalities, advocates for the reduction of disparities within and among countries. Chevening is a testament to this commitment. It offers a platform where diverse voices can be heard and where individuals from various backgrounds can collaborate, innovate, and drive positive change.

Since June, when I learned that my interview was successful, I have passionately advocated for Chevening, sharing my journey with every community I encounter. I have spoken to large audiences, encouraging women and people with disabilities to apply. I have also reached out to the PALOP community—referring to the Portuguese-speaking African countries of Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, and São Tomé and Príncipe—emphasizing the importance of learning English, which opens numerous doors and opportunities.

I am deeply grateful to the Chevening team for their belief in me and for making this opportunity possible. I urge everyone here to consider applying for Chevening. It is not merely a chance to study; it is an invitation to become a leader, to break barriers, and to contribute to a more inclusive and equitable world.

Thank you.

------Read in Portuguese --------

Senhoras e Senhores,

Meu nome é Sofonie Dala, e hoje, eu me apresento diante de vocês com imenso orgulho e alegria. Estou radiante em compartilhar que fui escolhida para a Bolsa Chevening, uma conquista extraordinária que me enche de entusiasmo.

Chevening não é apenas uma bolsa de estudos; é uma experiência transformadora que oferece a oportunidade de estudar em instituições prestigiadas no Reino Unido, desenvolver habilidades de liderança e promover conexões globais. Este programa reflete o espírito de inclusão e empoderamento, alinhando-se perfeitamente com os Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável (ODS) 4 e 10.

O ODS 4, Educação de Qualidade, enfatiza a importância da educação na promoção do progresso e da igualdade. Chevening personifica esse objetivo ao oferecer oportunidades educacionais de classe mundial sem discriminação. Independentemente de raça, deficiência, religião, gênero ou idade, Chevening é um farol de esperança para aqueles que desejam expandir seus horizontes e fazer um impacto significativo.

Da mesma forma, o ODS 10, Reduzir Desigualdades, defende a redução das disparidades dentro e entre os países. Chevening é um testemunho desse compromisso. Oferece uma plataforma onde vozes diversas podem ser ouvidas e onde indivíduos de diferentes origens podem colaborar, inovar e promover mudanças positivas.

Desde junho, quando soube que minha entrevista havia sido bem-sucedida, tenho defendido apaixonadamente o Chevening, compartilhando minha jornada com cada comunidade que encontro. Tenho falado para grandes audiências, incentivando mulheres e pessoas com deficiência a se inscreverem. Também alcancei a comunidade PALOP, que se refere aos Países Africanos de Língua Oficial Portuguesa (Angola, Moçambique, Cabo Verde, Guiné-Bissau e São Tomé e Príncipe), ressaltando a importância de aprender inglês, que abre inúmeras portas e oportunidades.

Estou profundamente agradecida à equipe do Chevening pela confiança em mim e por tornar essa oportunidade possível. Incentivo todos aqui a considerar se candidatar ao Chevening. Não é apenas uma chance de estudar; é um convite para se tornar um líder, quebrar barreiras e contribuir para um mundo mais inclusivo e equitativo.

Muito obrigada.

Galeria 

INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR PEOPLE OF AFRICAN DESCENT 2024

 

31 August 2024

Story: My Years in Russia: A True Story of Sofonie Dala 

On this International Day for People of African Descent, we honor the remarkable achievements and relentless dedication of individuals who have tirelessly fought for justice, equality, and recognition. Among these inspiring figures stands Sofonie Dala, a young African leader whose journey embodies the resilience and courage of people of African descent.

From a young age, Sofonie has been deeply committed to promoting human rights, gender equality, and sustainable development. Her path has not been easy. Growing up in Angola, Sofonie faced the harsh realities of systemic racism, social exclusion, and the lingering impacts of colonialism. Yet, she refused to be defined by these challenges. Instead, she transformed her experiences into a powerful force for change.

Sofonie's journey took her to Russia, where she encountered profound racial discrimination and witnessed the exploitation of African students. Despite these obstacles, she persevered, using her voice to raise awareness about the injustices faced by people of African descent. Her advocacy extended to South Africa, where she confronted xenophobia and the struggles of African migrants, and back to Angola, where she championed the rights of vulnerable communities, including indigenous women and migrants from Congo.

Through her unwavering dedication, Sofonie has become a beacon of hope for many. Her innovative initiatives, such as empowering women through education and addressing climate change, have had a profound impact on her community and beyond. She is not just a leader but a symbol of what can be achieved when one dares to dream and fights for a better world.

As we reflect on the contributions of people of African descent today, let us draw inspiration from Sofonie Dala’s story. Her life reminds us that true change is possible when we stand united against racism and discrimination. Together, we can build a world where equality, opportunity, and justice are not just aspirations but realities for all.

Sofonie Dala’s past and present endeavors showcase her exceptional ability to lead and execute programs that promote human rights. Her work continues to shine a light on the path toward a more just and inclusive future for people of African descent globally.

Breaking Barriers: The First African Woman to Host Russia's Navruz Party

In 2012, I became the first black woman and the first African to host the "Navruz Party," a Central Asian celebration held in the republics within Russia. By doing so, I paved the way for many other Africans, who were subsequently invited to present at similar events.

During our time in Russia, we made significant strides in showcasing our culture. We celebrated African festivals and the independence days of our home countries, singing, dancing, and sharing the rich traditions of Africa with others.

My Years in Russia: A True Story of Sofonie Dala

Hello everyone! I'm Sofonie Dala, and today I want to share a personal reflection on the International Day for People of African Descent, observed every August 31st. This day, established by the United Nations, honors the rich heritage and significant contributions of people of African descent.

As members of a unified human family, we must confront and eliminate the outdated stereotypes and prejudices rooted in unfounded ideas of racial superiority. These biases continue to inflict pain on millions of people of African descent globally.

Now, let me share my own story about living in Russia and what it meant to be black in a country where I often felt isolated.

I moved to Russia in 2005 at the age of 13 to pursue my studies. The initial experience was overwhelming. I noticed people staring at me constantly—women, in particular, seemed fixated on me. I couldn't understand why everyone was so intensely focused on me. I wondered, "Why are they looking at me like that?"

Some greeted me as if I were a celebrity, while others seemed fearful and apprehensive. Over time, I realized that my skin color was the reason for their attention. I was the only black person in the city where I initially lived, which made the experience particularly challenging.

Yes, there was a significant amount of racism. Racism is pervasive everywhere, not just in Russia but also in Africa, where nationalism can sometimes manifest in similar ways.

Despite the racism and prejudice I faced—where even simple outings required careful consideration—I persevered. I did not allow these challenges to deter me. I achieved my educational goals and earned a master's degree, proving that resilience can triumph over adversity.

Sofonie Dala Interviewed by Russian Press on Africa Day, 2013

Today is May 25th, African Liberation Day, an incredibly important day for us, and we have come together to celebrate it. This celebration isn't just happening here in Russia; it's happening all across Africa as well.

I’m wearing my African costume, which I brought from Angola, my homeland. This traditional attire represents our national pride and culture. Today, all the African students in this city are dressed in their national costumes, showcasing our rich heritage here in Europe. We want everyone to see how deeply we cherish our culture and how proud we are to be African.

Back home in Africa, we celebrate as families, gathering together to decorate the streets and spend time outdoors. We share meals, adorn everything beautifully with African beads and ornaments, and even paint our faces for carnivals. We also observe African rituals, taking time to rest on these special days because they hold great significance for us.

It was on a day like today, August 31, in 1920, that the first declaration of the rights of people of African descent was adopted in New York. Commemorating this historic event, in 2020 the General Assembly, under the initiative of Costa Rica, declared this as the International Day for People of African Descent. International day celebrations invite governments, civil society, the public and private sectors, schools and universities, and citizens of the world to reflect on values that unite humanity and to take concrete actions to advance them.

International days reflect the values that society shares. All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights and have the potential to contribute constructively to the development and well-being of their societies. Any doctrine of racial superiority is scientifically false, morally condemnable, socially unjust, and dangerous and must be rejected, together with theories that attempt to determine the existence of separate human races.