It’s that time again already. The We Are The World Blogfest #WATWB has more stories for you.
Our generous co-hosts for this month are Sylvia McGrath, Susan Scott, Shilpa Garg, Damyanti Biswas, and Belinda Witzenhausen
I nearly lost the story I was going to post. But I found it again thanks to SBS Australia journalist Jennifer Scherer. It’s about refugee Bill Ngo who fled conflict and came to Australia. In time he began a business. Sadly, his business is dwindling due to losses in these COVID-19 days. But Bill is undaunted and plans to get going again. Scherer tells his story on audio (put the sound on!).
The other part of this news is that there is good reason to believe small businesses like this are probably near us too. We can find out where they are and support them.
In a similar vein, back in January 2020, SBS News Australia also told a story of a Sri Lankan Restaurant ‘Colombo Social’ giving refugees and asylum seekers their first jobs. Or, you can check out their Facebook page.
Shaun Christie-David. Image: SBS News Australia, 10 January 2020
“Sydney restaurant Colombo Social hires refugees and asylum seekers helping to kickstart their careers in Australia, and it’s run by two friends who met in high school, ” says SBS News Australia.
What a great pair of stories in these days where we long to create greater harmony between the peoples of our earth and ensure the underprivileged find a home and a way to share their gifts.
And, for a poem…. by Miroslava Odalovis called ‘Silent Refugees’
What are we left with
When years and health are gone
When tents fall down under the roofs
When the shelters no longer shelter
When winters close down frozen and fireless
When summers burn crying for some ice
When springs forget to grow
And autumns die within a leaf
more at PoemHunter.com.
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Simon's still stanza 
Bill Ngo’s story is very sad Simon, I was hoping as I listened to it that somehow, someone had come to his rescue. I hope with his determination – also in helping other migrants – his furniture business will rise again.
It is sad, Susan. But he appears determined to try again. What a visionary person he is, despite his past and current obstacles.
I have no doubt with his indomitable spirit Mr. Ngo will find a way back – and hopefully soon. But you’re right, I think we have to vigilant and watch for local opportunities to support those businesses around us, especially those who are gatekeepers for vulnerable populations such as refugees and migrants. Thanks for sharing this one Simon.
Yes, Deborah. There must be others like Mr Ngo near us all. Thanks for your visit and interest yet again.
Hi Simon – I too think Mr Ngo will come through … or someone will step in to help and perhaps offer training to other refugees … he obviously has lots of courage and is knowledgeable … especially have fathered two engineers – something positive will arise from this time. Excellent share – especially with the Sri Lankan restaurant offering jobs to asylum seekers and refugees … there are some generous, extraordinary folk out there … love this, thank you – Hilary
Yes, Hilary. I almost felt hungry as I posted on the Sri Lankan restaurant. May they all go well and others like them too. Thanks for your ongoing visits here.
Loved reading Bill Ngo’s story. Thanks for sharing Simon.
Yes, Damyanti. He is an inspiring man. Thanks for creating this WATWB place with Belinda for us to share such stories too.
Thanks for sharing Mr. Ngo’s moving and sad story, Simon. And thanks for the timely reminder, that everyone should be vigilant in supporting local businesses.
Yes, Lizbeth. The Ngo story is bittersweet. At least so far! Let’s hope he restarts his work. I hope you can find such businesses near you as well.
Sad for Mr. Ngo but he seems so resilient, and has helped many, I hope he manages to rebuild. Thanks so much for sharing and for being a part of #WATWB.
Stay safe and be well! 🙂
I too, hope Mr Ngo rebuilds Belinda. Thanks also to Damyanti and yourself for following a WATWB vision and enlisting us to join. Stay well behind your masks 🙂