After months of hearing “impossible,” Petunia Twala and Cheryl Mudawarima sat across from Simon Cayley of The Bishops Action Foundation, hoping for something different on the 13th of July 2023. And they did!
Petunia and Cheryl had successfully organised the first Africa Day celebration in Taranaki on the 24th of May 2023. The demand for more events celebrating African heritage and culture was high following this event. They envisioned not only celebrating cultural events with the people of Taranaki but also bringing together Africans living in the region, offering them unique opportunities to connect and build relationships.
Cheryl and Petunia knew they had to start an organisation to achieve their goals. After thorough research, they determined that a Charitable Trust was the best setup for their vision. However, they were deterred by many who advised that establishing such an organisation would be impossible. They were also cautioned against pursuing a Charitable Trust so soon.
Then they met with Simon, who not only believed in their kaupapa but also encouraged them to forge ahead with their dream. He helped them think deeply about what they wanted to achieve and what it would look like in reality. In August 2023, Sisonke Taranaki African Community was formally established, and in May 2024, it became registered as a Charitable Trust.
They are proud of the significant achievements they have had since setting up in 2023. Sisonke, together with other community organisations, hosted the first World Heritage Day celebration in Taranaki with the support of Geetha Kutty of Migrant Connections Taranaki. They held community engagement sessions with the African community, as well as youth engagement sessions for African youth. They also celebrated Nelson Mandela with the support of NPDC and once again hosted a bigger Africa Day Celebration.
Sisonke has many more plans for their community, collaborating with various organisations.
Petunia and Cheryl said “We undoubtedly wouldn’t have reached the heights that we have without the support of Simon and BAF. We are eternally grateful for your support and belief in us”.