Hi everyone,

We’re reaching out to raise urgent funds for a dear friend, a courageous Sudanese human rights practitioner currently displaced in Uganda, so she can attend the 42nd edition of the International Human Rights Training Program (IHRTP).

She has been accepted into this prestigious program, which includes an online component (Sept 15–Oct 17, 2025) and an in-person training in Orford, Quebec (Oct 26–Nov 7, 2025). However, she did not receive a bursary, and the participation fee is CAD $9,000, which covers tuition, training materials, accommodation, meals, and emergency medical insurance. On top of that, she needs to cover international travel and visa costs herself.

Our friend is a dedicated and accomplished human rights defender. She was living in Khartoum when the war broke out in April 2023. After enduring months of bombardment, she and her family fled to Alfashir, North Darfur, only to face further violence when the city was besieged by the Rapid Support Forces. They were forced to flee once again, this time crossing into Chad. After several precarious months, they managed to reach Uganda, where they are currently seeking refuge.

The program is not just a training opportunity, it’s a life-changing chance for someone whose voice is urgently needed in global human rights spaces. Yet, barriers like cost, travel logistics, and visa restrictions often exclude powerful voices like hers, voices from the Global South, and in this case, from Sudan, which is facing the largest displacement crisis in the world.

We are aiming to raise CAD $7,000 to help her meet the participation fee deadline of July 15, 2025. We can provide her official letter of acceptance upon request.

Please donate if you can, and share widely with others who may be able to help. Your support will not only uplift her; it could have a ripple effect on the lives of her family and the communities she works with.

Thank you so much for your solidarity.

Warmly,

Duha Elmardi & Nelly Bassily