We help Immigrant women and families transition to a new life by teaching life skills, language, and economic independence. Columbus, Ohio has become the asylum to more than 150 refugee Rwandan, Congolese, and Burundi women and their families. When they arrive in Central Ohio, most refuges do not speak English, are unfamiliar with American customs, and after years of living in refugee camps are in
experienced with the simplest workings of their new homes. They need instruction for tasks such as: grocery shopping, and use of appliances such as, washing machines, vacuums and ovens. We are working on a pamphlet written in their native languages to provide them with the necessary information. Norah Bagirinka and Tatiana Adams established Rwanda Women In Action in 2007; both survivors of the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, these two women have first hand knowledge and experience of the cruelty and violence that perpetrated the people of their country. Norah and Tatiana have marshaled their experiences and compassion to become the life source for these new refugees in Central Ohio. Their ability to speak different African languages, French, and English makes them appropriate tools to effectively communicate with and interpret for the refugees during legal proceedings, emergency situations and job preparation classes.
