However, very few have come close to being given a chance to run for political office in their new home countries. Ireland-based Tendai Madingwa Madondo is one of that rare breed. As a way of honouring her for her outstanding work with migrant communities, where she facilitated their effective integration into the community and empowered others to participate in the mainstream processes, she was nominated to stand for local government elections on a Green Party ticket three years ago.
The Green Party was once known as the Ecology Party for its focus on environmental issues. She did well – but did not garner enough votes to get a seat.
“I was the party’s junior spokesperson on Integration, local constituency Chairperson and member of the national elections task force. I was also nominated as one of the Irish Times’ top 100 people to watch during that time,” she told The Zimbabwean recently.
Equipped with an MBA Degree in Health Services Management and a part masters in adult and community education, Madondo works for the international non-governmental organisation, Christian Aid, which boasts a presence in 49 countries across the world, including Zimbabwe.
“I advise our international programmes on Gender, Gender Based Violence and Power Analysis. I have travelled to Afghanistan, Cambodia, Rwanda, Burundi, Zimbabwe, Sierra Leone, Angola and many other countries in my line of work,” said the mother of three, who migrated to Ireland 10 years ago.
“I always champion the cause of migrant communities and speak out against their marginalisation and vulnerability. I work with faith leaders and other community leaders to coordinate a better life for our people.”
Madondo was early this year awarded with an African Leadership Excellence Award in the Politics and Public sector category. She believes that helping those in need is to her a way of achieving personal fulfilment.
“I believe that we become full human beings when we help one another,” said the socio-political analyst, who recently released a video that preaches hope for Africa.
“We all do the best that we can do not for ourselves but for others, and do deserve to be appreciated in one way or the other,” she added.
“I have made so many sacrifices for others, I have been to places where, had my mother been alive, she would have given me anything to stop me from going. It’s a huge bonus to be appreciated for all that work and I am truly honoured. I have blazed the trail for others and I trust that they will contribute their fair share while they are still around.”
Post published in: Opinions & Analysis