Stories shape, heal, and guide us, helping displaced migrants and refugees feel connected and heard.
Samah Shda is a pioneering force in refugee advocacy, storytelling, and community development. As the CEO and Founder of Unbound Stories, she leads a groundbreaking initiative that uses the power of personal narratives to drive inclusion, diversity, and equity in professional settings. With over a decade of experience in refugee protection, Samah has worked across MENA, North America, Australia, and Europe, making a significant impact on global refugee policies and practices.
Her work with Unbound Stories transforms professional environments by integrating lived experiences and innovative storytelling techniques. This approach not only fosters a deeper understanding of refugee issues but also empowers organisations to implement more inclusive practices.
Samah’s roles have included Tertiary Student Engagement Expert at UNHCR HQ and Community Engagement Project Officer at the Refugee Council of Australia. In these positions, she has developed and implemented strategies to enhance refugee students' engagement in higher education, advocated for refugee rights, and led numerous community development projects.
A National Refugee Ambassador with the Refugee Council of Australia, Samah is recognised for her expertise in refugee information behaviour and higher education access. She holds a Master of Philosophy (research) from the University of New South Wales and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Grinnell College. Her research provides valuable insights into the information journeys of refugees, helping to shape more effective support systems.
Multilingual in Assyrian, Arabic, and English, Samah’s global perspective is complemented by her hands-on experience in diverse cultural contexts. Her journey from a refugee to a global advocate is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the transformative power of education and storytelling.
Samah Shda continues to inspire and empower individuals and organisations, proving that through dedicated advocacy and innovative storytelling, we can create a more inclusive and equitable world.
Talking Points
The Power of Ethical Storytelling in Advocacy
Explore how personal narratives can transform perceptions and policies, creating lasting impacts in communities and organisations. Drawing from over a decade of experience, Samah will illustrate how storytelling can be a powerful tool for advocacy, driving social change and influencing public opinion. This session will delve into real-life examples and offer practical techniques for harnessing the power of stories in your own advocacy efforts.The Power of Ethical Storytelling in Advocacy
Key Takeaways:
• Understanding the fundamental principles of effective storytelling.
• Techniques to craft compelling personal narratives for advocacy.
• Insights into the tangible impacts of storytelling on policy and perception.
Key Takeaways:
• Understanding the fundamental principles of effective storytelling.
•Techniques to craft compelling personal narratives for advocacy.
• Insights into the tangible impacts of storytelling on policy and perception.
Creating Inclusive and Equitable Spaces
Practical strategies for fostering diversity and inclusion in professional and educational settings. Based on Samah’s groundbreaking work with Unbound Stories, participants will explore methods to create environments where everyone feels valued and empowered. The talk will highlight the importance of cultural competence, inclusive leadership, and organisational policies that promote equity.Creating Inclusive and Equitable Spaces
Key Takeaways:
• Concrete steps to implement inclusive practices in your organisation.
• Enhanced understanding of cultural competence and its importance.
• Tools to evaluate and improve your organisation's diversity and equity initiatives.
Leadership and Empowerment in Community Development
Discover techniques for cultivating leadership and resilience within refugee and marginalised communities. Drawing from extensive field experience, Samah will share insights into community development, organising, and advocacy. Participants will learn how to empower individuals to become leaders in their communities, fostering a culture of resilience and self-advocacy.Leadership and Empowerment in Community Development
Key Takeaways:
• Effective methods for community organising and development.
• Skills to empower and develop leadership within marginalised groups.
• Practical tools for building resilient communities that advocate for themselves.
Storytelling in Migrant Entrepreneurship and Personal Branding
Explore the unique intersection of storytelling and entrepreneurship for migrants and refugees. This session delves into how personal narratives can shape a powerful personal brand and drive entrepreneurial success. Attendees will learn how to leverage their unique experiences to create a compelling brand identity and connect with their audience on a deeper level.Storytelling in Migrant Entrepreneurship and Personal Branding
Key Takeaways:
• Strategies to craft a personal brand rooted in authentic storytelling.
• Insights into the role of personal narratives in entrepreneurial success.
• Practical techniques to communicate your brand's story effectively and build a loyal customer base.
Navigating the Refugee Journey
Topic Synopsis:Navigating the Refugee Journey
Gain insights from over 10 years of experience in refugee protection, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of refugees in their quest for education and stability. This session will cover the entire journey, from displacement to resettlement, emphasising the importance of access to education and community support. Attendees will learn about the critical barriers refugees face and the innovative solutions that have been successful in overcoming them.
Key Takeaways:
• A comprehensive understanding of the refugee journey and the systemic challenges involved.
• Strategies to support refugee access to education and community integration.
• Case studies showcasing successful interventions and their outcomes.
As the CEO and Founder of Unbound Stories, Samah has a unique ability to connect with her audience through the power of storytelling. She challenged us to rethink the narratives surrounding ... keep reading UnitingCare Australia
