September 17, 2019Allyship Journey with HOST International
What Does Allyship Mean?
Allyship is rare — it is a long process of building relationships based on trust and commitment. It does not simply mean helping each other, but standing together and supporting one another in the most challenging areas we face.
Over the past 18 months, HOST International has been an important ally to Project Stand Up (PSU). They have used their international networks to open doors for us, helping us identify opportunities, apply for grants, and manage projects effectively. Beyond resources, HOST has amplified our voices, ensuring that youth and refugee perspectives are heard and valued.
One clear example of this was when we were invited to present at an overseas conference on transformative leadership. Due to our refugee status, we couldn’t travel to present in person. HOST recognized the importance of our voices at the table and worked hard to advocate for our inclusion. As a result, we were able to share our experiences and lessons via video presentation, ensuring that our message reached a global audience.
What makes HOST an ally is how they engage with us:
They let us speak for ourselves whenever possible.
They never seek special recognition for being an ally or take credit for PSU’s ideas.
They make space for our voices, ensuring that our ideas and perspectives are centered.
Through their network, HOST helped us connect with Vidushi, a volunteer app designer, to co-create an app promoting shared responsibilities at home between men and women — a tool that continues to empower our community.
During challenging times, HOST has stood by us and advised us, not as outsiders looking in, but as true partners. They see us not just as refugees, but as young adults with potential and leadership capacity.
In spaces where youth refugee voices are often silenced or sidelined, PSU — with HOST’s allyship — has been able to step forward and show what is possible when young refugees are trusted, respected, and supported.
For allyship to thrive, it’s important to recognize the skills and strengths that both youth and adults bring to the table and understand how these strengths can work together for shared success.
PSU and HOST are now deepening this partnership by:
Using the Youth-Adult Partnership (YAP) model to guide collaboration.
Strengthening communication to better understand each other’s values.
Ensuring that every interaction reinforces mutual respect and equality.
While HOST has provided PSU with invaluable support, the benefits of allyship flow both ways. By working with PSU, HOST can:
Demonstrate best practices for working successfully with refugee-led organizations.
Lead by example in showing the world how to empower refugees authentically.
Share the transformative journey of PSU as part of a growing global movement of youth who are standing up for change in their communities.
The journey of allyship is ongoing — and together, PSU and HOST are writing a new chapter of collaboration, respect, and shared leadership.
Watch this space for the next chapter of PSU and HOST’s journey of allyship!