UVic – THINKfast! 2011

Development and Peace UVic was delighted to have William Goldiet, founder and president of the St. Bakhita Anakdiar Peace Foundation, come and speak to us about his life our first THINKfast! on the UVic campus.
William was born in Southern Sudan, but moved to Lebanon as a UN recognized refugee. Unfortunately the Lebanese government did not recognize the UN refugee status held by William and many of his fellow Sudanese. As a result, William was jailed three times during his time in Lebanon, as were many of the Sudanese community. In response, William founded the Fellowship of the Sudanese congregations in Lebanon (FSCL) as well as the St. Bakhita Group in Lebanon to provide support for Sudanese families.
Three years ago the diocese of Victoria, BC, sponsored William to move to Canada. Since arriving he has become the president of the African Heritage Association on Vancouver Island that represents all African and Caribbean people in Canada.
William’s aim is to support communities in Southern Sudan, as the region becomes a new nation this July, as well as provide help to Sudanese people who immigrate to Canada. He created the St. Bakhita Anakdiar Peace Foundation (Sabapef) to contribute in the development of the southern Sudanese self-efficacy in conflict management to deescalate tribal hostility. The Sabapef works hand in hand with the local people and various communities to provide social services in villages in south Sudan, and also assists Sudanese immigrants to settle and integrate into Canadian communities.
Sabapef believes that investing in early childhood development will prepare children to help themselves and to contribute in creating a peaceful, respectful, responsible, united and just society. To this end, Sabapef provides vocational training, shelters, healthcare, education, legal aid, social services and counseling to foster child dignity and empower them with a sense of meaning and purpose.
Development and Peace UVic was delighted to have William come and share his message of hope for Southern Sudan and the Sudanese people living at home or abroad. We were inspired by his courageous actions to support marginalized communities and his desire to remain in solidarity with Sudanese people throughout the world. Keep an eye out for the creation of an independent Southern Sudan, expected to happen on the 9th July, and remain in solidarity with all the people of the region!