Voices of Change

In this episode, Marie and Majella, who have dedicated over 25 years to volunteering with CAFOD, reflect on the incredible honour of receiving Papal blessings from Pope Francis. They share the significance of this recognition, their motivation for volunteering, and the role of hope and faith in their journey. Tune in to hear some excellent stories over the 25 years!All episodes of Voices of Change: https://cafod.org.uk/voices-of-change Time stamps!00:00: Introduction00:50: Quickfire questions07:20: Papal blessing14:24: 25 years of volunteering23:58: Jubilee year31:22: Outro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Katy Nembe Katonda, CAFOD's Deputy Country Representative in the Democratic Republic of Congo, discusses the immense challenges faced by families in the DRC, including displacement, poverty, and the urgent need for peace. Learn how CAFOD's partner, CAJED, is empowering young people like Daniel through vocational training, giving them the tools to rebuild their lives. Your Family Fast Day donation means people like Daniel around the world will have the opportunity to get the vital skills training they need to carve a better own futureAll episodes of Voices of Change: https://cafod.org.uk/voices-of-change Time stamps!00:00: Introduction00:30: Quickfire questions11:00: Challenges in DRC25:49: Impact of CAFOD partners36:37: Role of faith41:00: Outro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Voices of Change, Simon Giarchi, CAFOD's Community Participation Coordinator for Plymouth Diocese discusses a pivotal mountaintop moment that inspired his social justice work, his belief in community participation and the role of the church in motivating action.Time stamps!00:00: Introduction01:00: Quickfire questions04:00: Plymouth06:00: Life changing moment12:00: Campaigning15:00: Community participation27:00: Importance of volunteers29:00: Spirituality and the gospel35:00: Simon's necklace38:00: Simon's visit to Brazil44:00: What gives you hope?46:30: Outro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us in this episode of Voices of Change as we speak with Father Patrick van der Vorst. From securing investment on BBC's Dragons' Den for his online art valuation company, to creating the popular Christian Art website, Fr Patrick shares his unique journey into the priesthood. We discuss his appearances on Songs of Praise, his daily reflections combining art and the Gospel, and his path of discernment. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about faith, art, and personal transformation.Time stamps!00:00: Introduction00:40: Quickfire question round04:20: Dragon's Den09:44: Christian Art25:15: Romero cross29:53: Journey into priesthood37:16: What is next for Fr Patrick40:25: Outro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us in this compelling episode of Voices of Change as we sit down with Kayode Akintola, Head of Africa Region at CAFOD. Kayode discusses the current situation in Sudan, the various challenges facing Africa, and why partnering with local experts is CAFOD's humanitarian work. Don't miss this insightful conversation!Time stamps!00:00: Introduction with Kayode00:33: Quickfire question round06:00: Journey with CAFOD07:40: CAFOD's Head of Africa region09:50: Working with local experts12:00: Underreported crises of 202321:00: Situation in Sudan32:00: Challenges in Africa37:00: What gives you hope?44:00: Outro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Sandun Thudugala, Head of Programs at Law and Society Trust, as he uncovers the layers of Sri Lanka's debt crisis, revealing how it impacts ordinary citizens.Time stamps!00:00: Introduction with Sandun01:07: Quickfire question round06:20: Challenges facing the people of Sri Lanka10:02: Debt crisis in Sri Lanka24:34: How LST are tackling the debt crisis30:13: CAFOD's work with LST31:29: Life of a family in Sri Lanka without debt35:09: How CAFOD supporters can campaign36:52: Future for the people of Sri Lanka39:06: Outro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Voices of Change, host Celeste Iyinbo sits down with Clare Dixon, an esteemed advocate for justice and human rights with a remarkable 45-year tenure at CAFOD. Clare's unwavering commitment to defending the rights of marginalised communities in Latin America and the Caribbean has earned her accolades such as the OBE and the Cardinal Silva Human Rights Medal.Listen as Clare shares her inspiring journey from her upbringing in northeast England to her pivotal role in CAFOD's efforts in regions grappling with political unrest and human rights violations. Gain insight into the profound impact of individuals like Saint Oscar Romero and the Jesuit community in shaping Clare's work and worldview.Through personal anecdotes and reflections on significant moments in her career, Clare sheds light on the importance of defending human rights globally.Time stamps!00:00: Introduction with Clare01:30: Can you tell us a saint that inspires you and why?03:05: If you could eat only one food for the whole rest of your life, what would it be?04:53: If you could have dinner with a historical figure, who would it be and why?07:15: Is there something you've always wanted to learn that you never had the time to do before, but you'd love to do now?09:39: Clare's journey into the development sector, human rights and justice work17:03: Inspiring stories from 45 years at CAFOD28:37: Working with Saint Oscar Romero35:31: Why does Saint Oscar Romero hold such significance to CAFOD and its supporters?40:56: St Oscar Romero shrine in St George's Cathedral, Southwark43:40: Message to listeners called to advocated for human rights48:01: OutroFollow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special International Women's Day episode of Voices of Change, Celeste Iyinbo engages in a deeply insightful conversation with Nargis Nehan, former acting Minister for Mines and Petroleum in Afghanistan. A passionate advocate for women's rights, Nargis shares profound insights into the gender apartheid gripping Afghan women and girls. Listen as she shares the current plight of Afghan women and her unwavering hopes for a brighter future.Time stamps!00:05: What was it that made you want to dedicate your life for women's empowerment and humanitarian sector?04:02: Can you tell us about your work to achieve this goal pre the Taliban takeover?08:43: What critical role did women's rights organisations play before the Taliban takeover?11:15: Where were you when the news broke of the Taliban takeover of the capital?16:20: What is the current situation facing women and girls today in Afghanistan? What are the biggest threats to their well being?18:28: Has a Taliban takeover changed your goals? And also, could you tell us what has been the result in impact of the takeover on women's rights organisations and their work?23:43: What is it like living in exile?26:00: How do you continue to maintain connections with women inside Afghanistan from your current home in Canada? How do you find ways to support them? And do you hope to return to Afghanistan one day?28:51: What would you like to see change in Afghanistan before you return?30:03: How would you describe your relationship with CAFOD?31:41: What is important about CAFOD working in collaboration with local organisations. And I was wondering what can organisations like CAFOD do best to support women's rights in Afghanistan?33:38: What are your hopes for the future in Afghanistan?34:39: Do you have a message for UK supporters?Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Celeste Iyinbo in a deep dive with Bishop Stephen Wright on Voices of Change. Explore the profound significance of Lent, discover unique insights into the art of prayer on the go, and learn about Bishop Stephen's inspiring journey to becoming the Bishop of Hexham and Newcastle and the Chair of Trustees at CAFOD. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Celeste Iyinbo in an inspiring conversation with Nana Churcher, an award-winning international talk show host, motivational speaker, and CAFOD volunteer. Delve into Nana's incredible journey filled with success, motivation, and profound insights. Listen now for an empowering episode Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dive into an enlightening conversation on "Voices of Change," CAFOD's impactful podcast series, featuring Lucy Esipila, the pioneering first female Regional Coordinator of Caritas Africa. In this upcoming episode set for release, Lucy shares profound insights into pressing climate change issues facing Africa, progress since her participation at COP27, and priorities for COP28. Delve into her journey, her pivotal role within Caritas Africa, and the transformative power of her faith. Tune in for an enlightening conversation filled with perspectives on climate justice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us as Gareth Rowe, a research fellow with CAFOD and Durham University, discusses the powerful messages of Pope Francis in his latest Apostolic Exhortation, "Laudate Deum," and the enduring impact of "Laudato Si'." As COP28 approaches, this episode explores the urgent calls to action and the interconnectedness of environmental stewardship. Discover how Pope Francis's teachings continue to shape our response to the climate crisis and inspire positive change. Subscribe now to stay informed and inspired on "Voices of Change." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Voices of Change, host Celeste Iyinbo engages in a poignant conversation with Father Vitaliy Novak, the Chair of Depaul Ukraine. Against the backdrop of Ukraine's enduring conflict with Russia, Father Vitaliy's unwavering commitment to addressing humanitarian challenges shines brightly. This episode offers a profound exploration of his journey, marked by the delivery of vital aid to conflict-stricken areas. Through personal stories of resilience, we uncover the remarkable impact of Depaul Ukraine's efforts in a region beset by adversity. Tune in to learn more about the current situation in Ukraine.Our social media profiles:FacebookInstagramTwitterTikTokYouTubeLinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us in this engaging episode as we dive into the world of youth ministry and positive change with Mary Madziva, a passionate Catholic youth worker.Mary shares her journey, including her experiences at World Youth Day in Lisbon and her role in organising the Flame conference at Wembley. Discover the electric atmosphere in Lisbon, where Pope Francis's inspiring words left a lasting impact on young hearts. Learn about Flame, a massive event for young people in the UK, and the power of youth voices in shaping the Catholic Church and society.Get to know Mary on a personal level. From her admiration for St. Mother Teresa to the importance of empowering young individuals, this episode is filled with insights and inspiration.Tune in for a dynamic conversation that explores faith, youth ministry, and the endless possibilities for positive change. Our social media profiles:FacebookInstagramTwitterTikTokYouTubeLinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Voices of Change podcast, host Celeste Iyinbo chats to Bernard Balibuno, the Country Director of CAFOD in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Bernard provides insights into his role as Country Director and the challenges CAFOD faces in DRC, a country that has been dealing with emergencies, governance issues, and vulnerable communities.Bernard shares the variety of projects CAFOD is working on, from responding to emergencies and supporting vulnerable populations to working on governance and empowering women and young people. He highlights the importance of success stories and how they keep the team motivated amidst the challenges they face.The podcast delves into the impact of climate change in DRC, where farming heavily depends on rainfall, and how the changing weather patterns affect communities. Bernard also discusses the critical role the Catholic Church plays in the country and the significance of Pope Francis' visit to bring hope to the people of DRC.The interview sheds light on the struggles and resilience of the people of DRC, who have faced conflict, displacement, and natural disasters. Bernard calls for support, prayers, and advocacy to address the challenges faced by the vulnerable communities in the country.Our social media profiles:FacebookInstagramTwitterTikTokYouTubeLinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.