Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations
Happy Africa Day, everyone!
My name is Sofonie Dala, a proud Chevening scholar from Angola. Today, I stand before you filled with joy as we commemorate an extraordinary milestone—the first-ever Africa Day celebration in York, supported wholeheartedly by the City of York Council.
This day has not only marked a significant chapter in our local history but has also fostered a spirit of unity, as British and African communities came together to celebrate as one family. We were equally delighted to witness the presence of representatives from Asian countries, showcasing the beauty of diversity in our gathering.
This year’s theme, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations,” resonates deeply as we honor the memories of those who suffered under slavery and colonialism. It is a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for truth, justice, and restoration—a fight that transcends borders and generations.
Councillor Martin Rowley BEM of the Osbaldwick and Derwent Ward delivered a compelling speech, one that echoed through the hearts of many. With passion and conviction, he emphasized that this initiative is merely the beginning of a journey toward strengthening support for the African community in York. He declared, “York must be a welcoming city where everyone feels loved andcomfortable, like at home. There’s no place for discrimination or persecution.” His words served as a call to action, a reminder that while laws can create frameworks for equality, true change requires each individual to confront their biases and prejudices.
Despite centuries of coexistence between white continents and people of African descent, we still face the harsh realities of racism, prejudice, and discrimination in various spheres of life. These negative feelings cannot simply be legislated away; they demand introspection and a commitment to change within oneself. Each of us has a role to play in dismantling these barriers, fostering a culture of empathy, understanding, and love.
The event itself was a vibrant tapestry of culture and celebration. People danced energetically, embodying the spirit of Africa, with laughter and joy permeating the air. Even Lord Martin joined in the festivities, dancing with the energy of an African lord, as if transported to a lively African landscape. The atmosphere was electric, filled with music, dance, and connection—a celebration of resilience, heritage, and hope.
In alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this celebration contributes to several key areas:
- Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities- By promoting inclusivity and addressing systemic prejudices, we take a step towards creating a more equitable society.
- Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions - The theme of justice for Africans and people of African descent aligns perfectly with the pursuit of justice and the need for strong, fair institutions.
- Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals- The collaboration between the York Council and various communities exemplifies the power of partnership in achieving meaningful change.
As we move forward, let us carry the spirit of Africa Day in our hearts and strive towards a future filled with justice, love, and unity. Together, we can create a world where every individual, regardless of their background, feels valued and celebrated. Thank you all for being part of this historic day, and let us continue to work together for a brighter future!
Remembering Africa day celebrations in Russia, exactly 12 years ago
Young Sofonie Dala is giving interviews to Russian press
Let’s take a moment to applaud the incredible Sofonie Dala, a proud Chevening Scholar, as she reaches a stunning 207 hours of volunteering in the UK—from October 2024 to May 20, 2025. This milestone isn’t just a number. It’s a living, breathing story of grit, grace, and green growth.
Sofonie’s journey began with The Conservation Volunteers (TCV), but quickly expanded into a rich mosaic of action—feeding the homeless, planting trees, building insect hotels, raising awareness, and mentoring others. Each act, no matter how small, was a seed for sustainability.
From Nature to Nations: One Volunteer, 17 Global Goals
Yes, you read that right—all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are represented in her journey. Whether it was fighting hunger (SDG 2), advancing quality education (SDG 4), promoting gender equality (SDG 5), or supporting life below water (SDG 14) and life on land (SDG 15), Sofonie was there—boots on the ground, sleeves rolled up.
Her work is a dynamic expression of human, natural, and financial capital in motion. Every tree planted nurtured natural capital. Every skill learned—teamwork, leadership, environmental science—expanded human capital. And yes, these green skills are convertible into income, entrepreneurship, and opportunity—fueling financial capital in a world that desperately needs sustainable innovation.
And now, to commemorate this journey, a special short film has been released. This cinematic reflection captures her most impactful days—over 200 hours of volunteering distilled into one powerful visual story. A time machine of sorts, the film takes viewers back to her first days on campus in the UK, tracking the evolution of a global citizen fueled by purpose, resilience, and green ambition.
As eight months pass, and with so many milestones behind her and more queued up in the future, Sofonie's work serves as an inspiring reminder that individual action can ripple out into systemic change.
Here’s to many more moments of impact, empowerment, and environmental stewardship.
The world needs more leaders like Sofonie Dala—leaders who not only dream of change, but dig their hands into the soil and build it.
Green is the New Smart
Volunteering, Sofonie says, “has made me feel like one of the greenest students in the world.” And she might be right. Few others can say they’ve lived the SDGs so fully. With several short films produced—and more in the queue—her story is both cinematic and scientific, a time machine of hope reflecting the 8-month evolution of a changemaker.
A Gentle (and Powerful) Call to Action
To students: Looking for something more meaningful than scrolling your feed?
To professionals: Need a breather from the office or lab?
To everyone: Want to convert stress into strength, and free time into purpose?
Join a volunteer program. It could be the most relaxing thing you do—and the most radically transformative. You’ll meet friends, gain experience, boost your CV, and be part of something bigger: the movement to shape a Wealth Economy where no form of capital is wasted—especially not your own potential.
“Volunteering is not a pause from life. It’s how we learn to live it deeply.”
— Sofonie Dala
Relive the Journey: Real Stories, Real Change Across All 17 SDGs
If you missed any of the previous webisodes, now is the perfect time to re-watch and relive the inspiring moments that brought sustainability to life—one action at a time. From building greener cities (SDG 11), to promoting clean and affordable energy (SDG 7), and taking bold climate action (SDG 13), each episode captures the heart of real change in motion. These stories aren't just educational—they’re uplifting, visually rich, and full of practical ideas that anyone can replicate. Sofonie is especially proud to have joined organizations that respect and celebrate diversity, where all people—regardless of background—are welcomed and treated with dignity (SDG 10). Whether you're a student, educator, activist, or simply curious, dive back in and see how small, consistent acts are powering a better, fairer planet for all.
Explore what caches your attention most!
A Sustainable Birthday in Kilburn Grange Park: A Chevening Scholar’s Journey to Environmental Restoration
Congratulations, Sofonie! As we proudly celebrate Sofonie Dala's incredible milestone of 207 volunteer hours, we honor not only her dedication, but also her unshakable commitment to people, planet, and purpose. From her very first steps in the UK in October 2024 to May 20, 2025, Sofonie’s journey has been nothing short of transformative—not just for herself, but for the communities and ecosystems she has served.
A proud Chevening Scholar and sustainability advocate, Sofonie began her volunteering journey with The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) and quickly expanded her reach across a diverse range of causes and organizations. Whether it was planting trees, constructing insect hotels, or distributing food to the homeless, Sofonie gave her energy, compassion, and intellect to build a better world—one act of kindness at a time.
Her efforts align powerfully with multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—especially:
SDG 13: Climate Action — by restoring ecosystems and encouraging biodiversity.
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities — through greening urban spaces and promoting inclusivity.
SDG 2: Zero Hunger — by supporting food distribution for vulnerable populations.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals — through her collaboration with a range of civic organizations, charities, and environmental groups.
Sofonie often refers to herself as “one of the greenest students in the world,” and it’s easy to see why. Her journey is not just about numbers—it’s about the narratives of change she helped write: lives touched, habitats restored, and hope rekindled.
Sofonie Dala's Inspiring Volunteering Journey
Total Volunteering Hours: 207 hours
Hello, everyone! My name is Sofonie Dala, and I’m a proud Chevening scholar from Angola, currently studying in the UK. Since my arrival in September 2024, I’ve embarked on an incredible volunteering journey that I want to share with you all!
October 2024: A New Beginning
- Sunday, 27th: 6 hours
- Monday, 28th: 7 hours
- Tuesday, 29th: 7 hours
- Wednesday, 30th: 7 hours
Total for October: 27 hours
As I settled into my new environment, I was eager to make a difference. Each hour spent volunteering was a stepping stone to building connections and understanding the community around me.
November 2024: Commitment to Service
- Wednesday, 13th: 7 hours
- Sunday, 24th: 6 hours
Total for November: 13 hours
My dedication didn’t waver. On these days, I contributed 13 hours, further deepening my commitment to serving those in need.
December 2024: Spreading Joy
- Sunday, 8th: 6 hours
- Sunday, 15th: 6 hours
- Wednesday, 18th: 7 hours
Total for December: 19 hours
With the festive season approaching, I focused on spreading joy and kindness by planting trees, distributing resources to those less fortunate, promoting environmental awareness, travelling and studying hard for my exams.
January 2025: New Challenges
- Tuesday, 14th: 7 hours
- Wednesday, 23rd: 7 hours
- Thursday, 30th: 3 hours
- Friday, 31st: 2 hours
Total for January: 19 hours
Entering the new year, I faced new challenges but remained steadfast in my volunteering efforts, continuing to learn and grow through each experience.
February 2025: A Week of Giving
- Thursday, 6th: 3 hours
- Sunday, 9th: 6 hours
- Thursday, 13th: 3 hours
- Friday, 14th:2 hours
- Tuesday, 18th: 7 hours
- Friday, 21st: 2 hours
- Friday, 28th: 2 hours
Total so far in February: 25 hours
From February 10 to 16, I participated in Student Volunteering Week, a time when students across the UK come together to make a positive impact. My commitment during this week was a testament to my belief in the power of community service.
March 2025 - New vibes
Thursday, 6th: 5 hours
Friday, 7th: 2 hours
Thursday, 13th: 4 hours
Friday, 14th: 2 hours
Chevening - Ouseburn charity trust, Newcastle
Wednesday, 19th: 6 hours
TCV - Hull road park
Friday, 21st: 2 hours
TCV -Practical trip
Thursday, 27th: 6-7 hours
Friday, 28th: 2 hours / TCV - Hull road park
Total volunteering hours for March: 29 hours
Extra Volunteering Hours:
- Thursday, 31st October 2024: Kilburn Grange Park - 5 hours
- Saturday, 8th February 2025: Christian Community (Food Distribution to homeless people) - 2 hours
GREEN IMPACT ENVIRONMENTAL AUDITOR
-Issued by: Students Organising for Sustainability UK (SOS-UK)
Date: November - December 2024
Total hours: 10 hours
Volunteering internship
- Issued on: January 2, 2025
April 2024
Revitalizing Nature: Volunteering with TCV to Renew a Footbridge in Wheldrake”
On April 3rd, 2025, I had the privilege of volunteering with The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) in Wheldrake. Our task was to repair and renew an old footbridge, bringing it back to life just in time for the spring season. As April symbolizes renewal, new beginnings, and nature’s awakening after winter, our work reflected this essence perfectly. By restoring the footbridge, we helped ensure that it could continue to serve the community and connect people to nature during this vibrant time of year.
Total hours: 6
Team: Tang hall
TCV - Hull road park
Thursday, 10th April - 2 hours - Planting and growing food.
Friday, 11th April - 3 hours - building comfortable houses for insects.
Clearing vegetation - Westfield Fen
This Thursday, April 17th, I had the amazing opportunity to join The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) for a hands-on conservation experience at Westfield Fen, Grange Lane in Acomb.
Total volunteering hours: 7
The celebration of Earth Week is on going
This Earth Week, I had the privilege of joining The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) for another fulfilling day of community service. Our mission? To maintain and improve the cycle routes crossing The Stray in York, ensuring they remain accessible and safe for all cyclists.
Cycling has seen a remarkable resurgence in the UK, especially since 2020. The cycling market was valued at £2.31 billion in 2020, marking a 45% increase from the previous year. This surge was driven by a combination of factors, including the pandemic, which led to a 62% increase in cycling distance compared to 2019.
As we worked to clear the land of weeds, something fascinating caught my eye: long, shimmering earthworms emerging from the soil. They twisted and curved, almost like snakes, their bodies glistening in the light. Earthworms are not just essential for healthy soil; they’re also nature’s unsung heroes.
Did you know that earthworms can consume up to half their body weight in organic matter every day? They help break down material into nutrients, which benefits plant life and improves soil structure. Their burrows also aid in water filtration, making them crucial for sustainable ecosystems.
It’s essential to recognize that volunteers like us are ordinary citizens dedicating our time to enhance our community. We’re not paid for our efforts, yet we find fulfillment in contributing to a greener, more sustainable environment.
So, the next time you ride your bike along these paths, remember that behind their upkeep are individuals like you, working towards a better future.
If you have the opportunity, consider joining us. Your involvement can make a significant difference in preserving our green spaces for generations to come.
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