Celebrating Resilience on World Refugee Day: Maneesha Benedict’s Inspiring Journey

Dear KeyNote Women Speakers Community,

On this meaningful occasion of #WorldRefugeeDay, we gather to honor the remarkable resilience and unwavering spirit of individuals who have been uprooted from their homes. Today, we have the privilege of spotlighting Maneesha Benedict , an extraordinary individual whose story not only exemplifies resilience but also embodies the core values of KeyNote Women Speakers as she serves as our esteemed Managing Director.

Maneesha & her family's journey is deeply intertwined with the Gulf War, a devastating conflict that shattered her family's homeland and set them on a path filled with trials and uncertainties. Living in Kuwait, which is often ravaged by fighting, Maneesha experienced firsthand the hardships and upheaval that accompany the life of a refugee without the coveted 'Refugee Status.'

Maneesha Quotes:

"In just a second, your life can change, from having everything one moment and then nothing the next. Our family never thought this would happen to us."

Let us share Maneesha's inspiring story in her own words:

"In 1990, my family flew to Australia, hopeful to explore the possibility of a new future. I was merely four years old, and none of us could have fathomed that this would be the last time we would be in Kuwait. While we were aware of the conflicts unfolding in the Middle East, we believed they would resolve before our return. However, upon concluding our trip, we realized that this wasn't just another fight but a war that would reshape our lives - the Gulf War.

The uncertainties were overwhelming. We lost everything—our home, our belongings, and our financial security. All that remained were the clothes in our suitcases and the money in our wallets. Despite our attempts to attain refugee status, we were unfortunately denied.

Starting anew was our only option. Although my father struggled to find immediate employment, we managed to secure a place to live with the funds we had. I still vividly recall our first night in our new home - it was very cold and we had to squeeze onto one single-size mattress.?

Those initial five years were incredibly challenging for my family. We did not receive any benefits, such as medical care, and my father's first job was cleaning houses. Yet, I do not regret the hardships we faced. It was during that period that we discovered faith and found solace in a church that became our extended family. They generously furnished our home, provided clothing, and supplied us with all the essentials we needed. Over three decades have passed since then, and looking back, all I feel is profound gratitude for those who supported us during our time of need.”

Maneesha's journey has profoundly influenced her perspective, instilling in her a profound sense of compassion and an unwavering commitment to empowering others on their unique paths to success.

"As I reflect upon my two years at KeyNote Women Speakers, I feel incredibly blessed by the numerous opportunities and connection with extraordinary female speakers and mentors. This year I was given the incredible honor to be one of the authors of our new book - Redefining the Rules: Incredible Women on how to embrace equity. At present, I am engaged in the public speaking training programme and will soon be joining our esteemed directory.

KeyNote has truly transformed my life, opening doors to new possibilities. My voice now resonates in schools, conferences, and online platforms, where I speak on the vital topic of 'Sex Education: Our Right and Necessity'. "

Today, as we acknowledge Maneesha Benedict, her family, all those affected by the #GulfWar and other refugee crises worldwide, we stand in solidarity. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength that can emerge from the most challenging circumstances.

Together, let us continue our unwavering support for refugees and their rights, and through Maneesha's remarkable journey, let us inspire hope and empower countless others who face adversity.

About the Gulf War:

Date:? 2 Aug 1990 – 28 Feb 1991?

Persian Gulf War, also called Gulf War, (1990–91), international conflict that was triggered by Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait on August 2, 1990.

(Source: https://www.britannica.com/event/Persian-Gulf-War )

With gratitude and solidarity,

KeyNote Women Speakers