The world is filled with cruel injustices, and consequently people endure inconceivable suffering. Kon Karapanagiotidis shares his experiences of growing up in a migrant family in Australia, and his involvement with helping refugees, migrants and people in need. His memoir, ‘The Power of Hope’, brings rawness to his personal struggles, and exposes the dire circumstances that many refugees find themselves in when arriving in Australia.
Kon had a relatively poor upbringing, his parents were migrants from Greece, and they worked long hours to create the best life for their children. Despite being born in Australia, he encountered racism and lacked a sense of belonging, feeling foreign in his own country. Kon bravely reveals his personal story and takes us on his journey towards self-acceptance. I feel that his battles are more common than we think, and hearing another person’s highs and lows can help us relate to fight our own.
Kon’s book teaches us that compassion is a necessity, and every life should be valued, no matter their race, skin colour, gender, sexuality or other differences. By accepting people and getting to know others, we will often hear amazing stories or create unexpected bonds. Everyone in this world has something to offer. He founded the organisation ‘Asylum Seeker Resource Centre’, that not only supports refugees but anyone in need of assistance to overcome hurdles in life.
A particularly eye opening part of his memoir is the horrific recounts of refugees in Australian detention centres while awaiting approval. Many of these cases simply dismiss basic human rights, bringing refugees to despair when stuck in extreme circumstances with no way forward. These stories develop a new found respect for migrants and refugees risking it all in hope of a new life.
Kon shares his joyous encounters with refugees he previously helped who have now created a successful life in Australia. He also shares how he overcame countless psychological barriers through helping others. He describes the variety of work his organisation does, and how optimism and the power of hope can bring people together to achieve the unimaginable. In addition to the success stories, this book raises awareness of people in need and Kon recommends simple actions that can give someone else a new lease on life.
Are you interested in reading this book?
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