As students living away from our families during this pandemic, the past year had given us the chance (and time) to reflect on what we have. Even during these challenging and unpredictable moments, we’re incredibly lucky to still have food on the table, a roof above our heads, easy access to first aid and sanitation. It made us wonder about those who aren't so fortunate and needs some help.

This Ramadan, we decided to offer our support to ORA UK, which works alongside Oromo Relief Association Ethiopia. They are currently raising funds for vital aid that will be distributed to those most in need during the pandemic.

In 2019, the UN World Food Program USA (UNWFP) listed Ethiopia to be among the countries with the worst food crises in the world. Indeed, the Ethiopia Humanitarian Response Plan had estimated that approximately 8.1 million people became victims of food insecurity in the country that same year.

Environmental causes, price fluctuations, and crop failures are only a few of the factors contributing to this. Internal displacements played a big role, too, with over 2 million citizens facing it. Moreover, the BBC highlighted that drought has led crops in certain regions to decrease to as little as 10% of what is expected by local farmers.

Additionally, many Ethiopians are often forced to sell their assets, causing them to become displaced. On top of this, sanitation is still a prominent issue. And while the mentioned took place before the pandemic, we can only imagine how the situation is worsened as an impact of COVID-19.

We came up with Carry the Light during a zoom conversation a few weeks ago. Light is often associated with hope, and we believe that hope is a powerful thing that can be felt, even from a distance. And this comes in many forms. Even the smallest change still counts as change! 

That being said, if you aren't able to donate, we totally understand! Help us by sharing our page on social media platforms, to your friends, family, neighbours, anyone :)

So, let's carry the light this Ramadan and help those in need.