I wanted to start a foundation is specific to youth since they are the future of our world, if we don’t support them, then who will? Our organisation reflects on marginalised communities who are still recovering from war-torn countries in providing a safe haven of activities, donations and activities for them to do.

I was raised in many countries although I was not a refugee, I was isolated and displaced due to racism of the system and unable to support those who are marginalised. My grandparents are from Pakistan, originally from Firozpur district in India during the partition that had to flee from religious persecution and opportunity for a better life. Their families were displaced into forced migration which made them experience loss of childhood and intergenerational trauma due to loss of connection from their homeland.

Watan, in my language translates to ‘homeland/country’, which has been a source of my inspiration alongside my passion in Politics/IR, human rights and advocacy for this foundation.

According to UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), 43.3 million children below the age of 18 years are displaced due to conflict and violence in their home country (2022).

Our non-for-profit organisation establishes our purpose in three principles, empowerment, healing and support. By receiving donations, we cater to organise care packages to newly arrived children which includes toys, books and art supplies for those in need. Furthermore, we hold fundraiser events which help us with charitable events and activities in help us to strengthen our mission. More than ever, there has been displaced refugee and asylum-seeker children arriving in Australia who don’t access to resources or facilities due to funding or opportunities to achieve their potential. With your help, our certified youth-led nonprofit aimed towards bettering the childhoods of kids from war-torn countries, displaced migrants, asylum seekers and refugees to be ‘healed, supported and empowered’!

Kainaat Sukhera

Founder of Watan Kids Foundation