From Dadaab to Darwin: A Humanitarian's Journey of Purpose and Impact
Born and raised in Nairobi, Kenya, Christine Okoth was no stranger to the complexities of life. Exposed to inequality from an early age, she developed a deep empathy that would one day drive her into the heart of one of the world’s largest refugee crises.
“My desire to help people and make an impact was born from witnessing life’s harshest realities as a child.”
Her journey toward humanitarian work began in high school, where she joined the Model United Nations at Loreto Convent Valley Road. There, she debated global issues like refugee protection, food insecurity, and climate change—an experience that ignited a lifelong passion.
Fueled by purpose, she pursued a degree in Community Development at Daystar University. Volunteering and an internship led her to Dadaab, a sprawling refugee camp near the Somalia border. It was there that she found her calling.
As a psychosocial counsellor, her days were spent supporting individuals through trauma, displacement, and uncertainty. “Many had endured unimaginable suffering,” she says. “My role was to help them rediscover their strength.” Her responsibilities extended to child protection, legal advocacy, resettlement referrals, and distribution of essential supplies.
“Working in Dadaab taught me the true meaning of resilience—and gratitude.”
But the work came with danger. Dadaab, located in a high-risk security zone, operated under strict curfews, mandatory armed convoys, and constant threats from militant groups. During her time there, Kenya endured major terrorist attacks—including the Westgate Mall and Garissa University tragedies. “We had to navigate the balance between protecting others and protecting ourselves.”
Geopolitical shifts soon changed everything. As global attention turned to newer crises and donor fatigue deepened, resources for Dadaab began to dwindle. “Dadaab became a symbol of prolonged displacement,” Christine reflects. “When Syria’s crisis took center stage and the U.S. reduced humanitarian aid, Dadaab was no longer a priority.”
“There was always a delicate balance between delivering aid and ensuring our own safety.”
Despite these challenges, her collaboration with UNHCR became the cornerstone of her humanitarian career. “It gave me exposure, experience, and a sense of purpose I will carry for life.”
In 2019, Christine made a life-altering decision—to migrate to Australia. “It was a personal choice. I wanted to explore new possibilities and build a brighter future.”
Settling in Darwin came with its own set of challenges: no local networks, limited recognition of her experience, and difficulty finding work without Australian references. But for someone shaped by the demands of humanitarian crises, Darwin felt like a new chapter of peace.
“After Dadaab, Darwin felt calm—a place where I could finally exhale.”
She soon found work in refugee settlement services and later rose to become Team Leader for Cultural Services and Groups at Relationships Australia NT. Her role is deeply rooted in cultural awareness, trauma-informed care, and inclusive community development.
Her commitment to multiculturalism also shines through in her civic engagement. In 2024, she co-organized a multicultural women’s networking dinner on International Women’s Day and Darwin’s first-ever Fashion Fusion event—a vibrant celebration of cultural identity and creative expression.
“Those moments were about pride, community, and showing what we can create when we come together.”
Through every transition, one philosophy has remained constant: Ubuntu. To young Kenyans passionate about humanitarian work, Christine offers heartfelt advice:
“Whether you’re a teacher, lawyer, or engineer—if you have the passion to serve, there’s space for you in this work.”
