My Name is Tani...and I Believe in Miracles by Tanitoluwa Adewumi
The story of Tanitoluwa Adewumi or “Tani'' and his family is one of hope and hard work. Tani and his family came to the United States from Nigeria in an effort to flee unrest and persecution from Boko Haram. The Adewumi family quickly found that while the United States offered them safety, there were still many difficulties. Through hard work and grit, Tani and his family have not only survived, but thrived. Tani has contributed to three different books about his story, first, a hopeful picture book called Tani’s New Home written about how once in the United States, Tani is able to follow his passion and succeed in playing chess. Tani with the help of author Craig Borlase tells his story in more depth in My Name is Tani and I Believe in Miracles: Young Readers Edition. This edition is aimed at 8 to 12 year olds. Then for adults and older readers there is a full version of the story entitled, My Name is Tani… and I Believe in Miracles: the Amazing True Story of One Boy’s Journey From Refugee to Chess Champion. This version is written by Tani, his parents, Kayode and Oluwtoyin Adewumi and Craig Borlase. This story is one that will be loved by all ages, just pick the edition right for you. Tani and his family will quickly steal a place in your heart. Their story is one of fulfilling the American dream and being able to give back. These books provide a great opportunity to talk as a whole family about hope and dreams and how hard work can lead to success.
Connecting with Afghan Youth through Art
Slam the Islamophobia
The Emerald Project is a Utah-based organization that carefully designs dialogues to engage with non-Muslims to make Salt Lake Valley a more welcoming home to Muslims. As many of our refugee friends belong to the Muslim faith, we applaud opportunities that foster understanding and were pleased to support The Emerald Project’s 3rd annual “Slam the Islamophobia” event on February 15th.
Invisible Barriers and Battles: The Mental Health Impact on Refugees
Refugees often risk their lives crossing deserts, jungles, and oceans all in the search for shelter, freedom, or happiness. Yet, even once they’ve reached physical safety, mental mountains emerge that make daily life an uphill climb. At the November 2022 conference for the Utah Chapter of the Society for Public Health Education (USOPHE), presenters Shurooq Al Jewari and Sasha Sloan discussed mental health and inclusion, focusing on immigrants and refugees.