AFFORD and Diaspora Emergency Action and Coordination (DEMAC) invite you to join us for an evening of reflection over the work Sierra Leoneans in the UK were able to do over the last few years in terms of business investment and investing time and resources in responding to crisis.
Sierra Leoneans in the diaspora, especially in the UK, make a vital contribution mobilising their resources to respond to the Ebola outbreak that struck Sierra Leone between May 2014 to November 2015. This joint AFFORD Business Centre (ABC) and Diaspora Emergency Action and Coordination (DEMAC) event will highlight the important role of the diaspora in disaster preparedness, response and coordination, in the context of Sierra Leone.
The Ebola outbreak prevented eight out of ten potential investors from investing in Sierra Leone, according to our recent ABC study. This event will also share findings of the ABC’s study to provide an improved understanding of the extent of the impact of the Ebola outbreak on diaspora enterprises, as well as explore practical solutions for diaspora contribution to the national recovery effort in Sierra Leone.
The DEMAC study highlighted the important and meaningful work the diaspora carries out during periods of humanitarian crisis. The study highlighted areas of intervention, main methods of assistance provided by the diaspora and outlined recommendations on how to move forward. At this event we will look at the findings and talk about practical ways to develop the work of the diaspora in humanitarian response.
This event will consist of presentations by experts, along with stakeholders from the humanitarian field and the private sector, sharing practical solutions to improve collaborative working among diaspora groups and other stakeholders. This will be followed by an interactive discussion and Q&A session where we would love to have you share your experiences as well as provide your thoughts on what actions can be taken to build on the great work being done in support of Sierra Leone’s recovery.
This event will have speakers sharing their knowledge on:
★ Providing assistance in time of crisis
★ What can be achieved when UK Sierra Leones coming together and work together for a common goal
★ Sharing key findings and recommendations of the impact of Ebola on business
★ Strategies to leverage diaspora contribution to ongoing recovery efforts
★ Broader impact of the Ebola outbreak on businesses, especially diaspora SMEs and international enterprises
★ Broaden understanding of the role of diaspora in humanitarian disaster preparedness, response and coordination.
Refreshments: Hot Buffet
To confirm your place please can you register by booking your place on Eventbrite.
If you have any questions or would like further information please email elvina@afford-uk.orgor dizo@afford-uk.org