As Fatoumatta Camera comes to the end of her Tamarack Changemaker Experience she reflects on what she has learned and how it fits into the bigger picture of her life and peacebuilding journey.
How did you get involved in the Tamarack Changemaker Experience?
I first heard of the Tamarack Institute during my Masters in Peace and Conflict Studies orientation and college tour. My involvement with Tamarack began in earnest when I started working at the Kindred Credit Union Centre for Peace Advancement. As the interim Coordinator, I had the opportunity to work closely with Tamarack, a core collaborator of the CPA. This role allowed me to learn more about the organization, its vision, mission, and programs.
When I saw the Tamarack Changemaker Experience being advertised, I initially was hesitant to apply. As an international student, participating in a 7-month workshop like the Changemaker Experience seemed daunting without adequate funding. However, I was thrilled to receive a fully funded scholarship from the Tamarack Team after applying.
My interest in this opportunity was fueled by my deep passion for community development and social justice. I was particularly drawn to Tamarack's focus on fostering collaborative leadership and innovative solutions for complex community issues. The chance to learn and work alongside like-minded individuals dedicated to making a positive impact was a significant motivator for me to join the program.
Tell us a little about yourself
My name is Fatoumatta Camara, and I hail from The Gambia, the "Smiling Coast of Africa." This name reflects the deep-rooted hospitality and generosity of my people, who share everything they have because of our strong sense of community and interconnectedness.
I hold an undergraduate degree in Political Science, during which I aspired to become a diplomat, driven by a profound passion for promoting peace, justice, and international cooperation. My academic journey has been a dedicated pursuit of understanding and addressing complex social issues at the intersection of diverse cultures and communities. I have always believed in breaking barriers, particularly the misconception that diplomacy is a male-dominated field. Inspired by trailblazers like Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the former President of Liberia and Nobel Peace Prize winner, I envisioned applying my skills in conflict resolution, negotiation, and cultural sensitivity on a global stage.
However, my path took a transformative turn during The Gambia's political impasse, which forced many, including my family and me, to seek refuge in Senegal. During our displacement, I witnessed the plight of individuals in IDP camps who had fled their homes in search of safety. This experience was a stark reminder of my relative fortune and fueled my resolve to understand the root causes of conflict and violence. I vowed to explore alternatives that ensure peaceful coexistence despite our differences. This commitment led me to pursue a Masters degree in Peace and Conflict Studies at Conrad Grebel University College.
My academic journey has been enriched by extensive experience in project management, community engagement, and administrative support. I have had the privilege of working with various organizations such as the Kindred Centre for Peace Advancement, Peace Hub The Gambia, Office of the Worker Adviser, Peace for All Canada, and the Graduate Student Association. My contributions within and beyond the classroom were recognized with awards such as the Valedictorian Award 2024 and the MPACS Impact Award from Conrad Grebel.
In all my endeavours, I am driven by a vision of a world where peace and justice prevail, and I remain committed to making a meaningful impact on both local and global scales.
What has your Tamarack Changemaker Experience been like overall?
My experience with the Tamarack Changemaker Experience has been incredibly enriching and transformative. The support and resources offered by Tamarack have enabled me to develop and refine my skills as a changemaker, and the sense of community within the program has been truly inspiring. Meeting and learning from Liz and other changemakers in the program has not only broadened my understanding of community development but has also deepened my commitment to social justice.
The experiences and practical skills I have gained through Tamarack have perfectly complemented the theories and concepts I have learned in my academic courses, particularly MPACS 626 - Conflict Resolution Skill Training - Peacemaking Circles and MPACS 603 - Building Civil Society where I studied the foundational elements of fostering a vibrant and inclusive community. This theoretical knowledge has been crucial in guiding my efforts to engage with and empower marginalized groups.
What are some things you have learned?
One of the key things I have learned is the transformative power of collective action. Building strong, inclusive networks is essential for driving meaningful change, as it leverages the diverse strengths and perspectives of various stakeholders.
The experience has highlighted the significance of truly listening to and amplifying the voices of those directly affected by the issues we aim to tackle. Sustainable change is rooted in the experiences and insights of the community members themselves. By prioritizing their perspectives, we can ensure that our initiatives are relevant, respectful, and genuinely responsive to their needs.
I really appreciated the Collective Impact toolkit, and have also gained a deeper understanding of the complexities of social issues. Addressing these challenges requires adaptive and innovative approaches that can evolve with the changing landscape.
How do you hope to carry this work forward?
I hope to carry this work forward by continuing to advocate for and implement projects that drive social change and improve the lives of marginalized communities. I plan to leverage the knowledge and skills I have gained through the Tamarack Changemaker Experience to lead initiatives that foster inclusivity, resilience, and sustainability. My goal is to collaborate with diverse stakeholders to create a lasting impact and inspire others to join the movement for a more just and equitable world.
Building on the foundation laid by my experiences, I aim to develop comprehensive programs that address critical issues such as gender equity, economic justice, reconciliation, and environmental sustainability. By focusing on empowering marginalized groups, especially girls and young adolescents in rural areas, I intend to break down barriers to education and essential resources, ensuring they have the opportunities to succeed.
I am also committed to advancing Restorative Justice practices for individuals in contact with the Justice System, particularly juvenile offenders. By facilitating dialogue and understanding between offenders and victims, restorative justice seeks to repair harm and reintegrate individuals into their communities. This approach not only helps to reduce recidivism but also fosters a sense of accountability and empathy among young offenders, contributing to more cohesive and resilient communities.
My vision is to create a network of collaborative partnerships with community organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders. Together, we can develop and implement innovative solutions that address the root causes of social and environmental issues. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and mutual support, we can build resilient communities that are better equipped to face future challenges.
Ultimately, my aspiration is to inspire others to take action and contribute to the collective effort of building a more equitable and sustainable world. By sharing my experiences and the lessons learned from the Tamarack Changemaker Experience, I hope to empower others to become agents of change in their own communities.
“Together, we can create a bright and safe future for all”