Tammy Adewumi (second from right) with CJI staff and visitor Irma Lucia Mariño Vargas (third from left), director of the Integral Ecology and Panamazonia Initiative of the International Federation of Fe y Alegría, a CJI partner.
By Tammy Adewumi
When I was accepted as a Canada Jobs summer intern Canadian Jesuits International (CJI) in May, I hoped to learn more about its work, the projects it supports, and the organization in general. My two-month experience here has been an incredible learning journey. Looking back at the expectations I set out in the internship questionnaires, I can confidently say that CJI has not only met them but exceeded them.
One of my primary goals was to use the knowledge I gained at CJI to make a meaningful impact on others. I am proud to say that I’ve had the opportunity to educate both my family and friends on the critical issue of forced migration. This is a pressing global concern that deserves far more attention than it has received in recent years. War, violent conflict, persecution, natural disasters, and climate change, compels people to leave their homes. Yet, the global community often overlooks this issue and fails to provide adequate solutions for those who suffer.
Forced migration is a deeply personal issue for me because I am also a migrant. Somali British writer and poet Warsan Shire’s poignant words, “No one leaves home unless home is the mouth of a shark,” resonate deeply with my experience. People don’t leave their homes, unless they have no other choice—unless they are fleeing from unbearable circumstances. Everyone deserves a chance at a better life, whether they are parents seeking a better future for their children or young people striving to build something for themselves. The decision to leave everything behind and cross borders takes immense courage. I’m heartened that CJI has chosen to focus on forced migration for its fall campaign, as it will raise awareness and educate both young people and adults on this urgent matter.
The time I spent with the staff at CJI has had a profound impact on me. Each interaction, no matter how brief, has been invaluable. Working with CJI Outreach Coordinator Pieter Niemeyer has been particularly inspiring. I first met Pieter during a school trip when CJI was focused on girls’ education in the Global South. His teachings left a lasting impression on me, and I later reached out to him for school projects, bringing him in to educate younger students about the importance of girls’ education and women’s rights. Every opportunity I’ve had to work with Pieter has been a privilege, and I am deeply grateful for his kindness and guidance.
My journey with CJI also allowed me to learn more about Colombia and the vital work that CJI supports through JRS Colombia in Barrancabermeja and the Magdalena Medio region. CJI International Programs Coordinator Juan Emilio Hernandez was instrumental in my learning process, especially when I was working on a Colombia storyline for CJI’s Youth for Others Social Justice Day. He facilitated meetings with Jesuits Refugee Service (JRS) Colombia and provided invaluable resources. Juan’s deep knowledge of forced migration has enriched my understanding, and I appreciate the moments of laughter and his genuine nature during my time at CJI.
Working with CJI Communications Coordinator Tess Sison has been especially rewarding, as she helped me improve my writing skills and refine my approach to editing documents and posters. Her constructive feedback will serve me well in my post-secondary studies which I am grateful for.
Finally, I must express my heartfelt gratitude to Jenny Cafiso, the Executive Director of CJI. Jenny’s warmth, kindness, and wisdom have been a source of inspiration. Our conversations have been not only emotional but also empowering, and I am deeply grateful for the encouragement she has given me.
This summer with Canadian Jesuits International has been an incredible experience, filled with learning, growth, and meaningful connections. I am eager to share the knowledge I have gained with others, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this remarkable organization. Thank you to everyone at CJI for making this summer so impactful and memorable.
Tammy Adewumi is a a first-year student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in criminology at York University, Toronto. She finished high school at Madonna Catholic Secondary School.
