Communication tips from our refugee communities
I am not
just a refugee
I am also a brother to six beautiful siblings, a carer, a musician, and a radio presenter at a community radio station.
FISTON BARAKA
Communication Tips from Our Refugee Communities
At Cultura, we believe effective communication is built on respect, clarity, and mutual understanding. These Do’s and Don’ts were co-designed with our clients from refugee backgrounds to help guide respectful and culturally sensitive interactions.
DO
- Smile!
- Be open when meeting people
- Speak clearly, ask if not sure
- Avoid jargon, sarcasm
- Explain technical terms
- Check the message has been understood
- Active listening
DON'T
- Shout
- Mumble or speak too fast
- Rush the person
- Assume anything, always clarify
- Assume that language proficiency equals intelligence
- Stereotype
These tips are a small but important step toward creating inclusive, safe, and supportive environments for everyone.
To learn more about effective cross-cultural communication, check out our Cultural Awareness program.
I am not
just a refugee
I’m also a volunteer at the Church Women’s Group and a dental nurse at a Health Community Centre.
Lulu Yohel
I am not
just a refugee
I’m also a mother and an oral health educator at a Health Community Centre.
NANAH YOHEL
I am not
just a refugee
I’m also an accredited paramedic and a volunteer at the Job Club. I carry with me, the lessons of resilience and the desire to give back to the community that helped me.
ALI ALEMI
I am not
just a refugee
I’m also a Protective Service Officer and a proud contributor to my community. Refugees are not defined by where we started but by the impact we make.