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.
My First Asylum Case: An Attorney's Perspective on Asylum in the United States
I took my first asylum case in 2016, when our national dialog on immigration took a decidedly negative turn. As a corporate attorney, I had no experience in immigration law, but my license allowed me to represent individuals fleeing severe persecution and I signed with a local non-profit to offer my help. My first asylum client was a young mother and her two small daughters. I could see myself in Saba.
Their Story is Our Story Applauds the Signing of Virginia House Bill 995 and Continues Efforts to Open Doors for Foreign-trained Medical Professionals in Other States
Their Story is Our Story (TSOS), a non-profit organization that collects and shares the experiences of refugees to deepen understanding and influence action, applauds the signing of Virginia House Bill 995 into law by Governor Glenn Youngkin, after its unanimous passage through the Virginia House of Delegates and Senate. It will create a pathway for foreign-trained doctors who have immigrated to the state, including those whose careers were interrupted by forcible displacement, to fill workforce gaps in medically underserved communities.
Idaho One Refugee Conference
Last fall I was able to attend the 1Refugee Conference in Idaho. The event was well organized and everyone who approached our table was interested in what we did and wanted to know how to get involved. There were at least 100 students majoring in a variety of things who attended the event and we had 20 students give us their contact information. Most were interested in our internship programs.