John Ochira was born in Imolongo, South Sudan. Due to the violence of the civil war he and his siblings fled to a refugee camp in Uganda where they lived for six years before coming to Maine in 2005. Today John manages disability claims for UNUM and is the Vice Chairman for the South Sudanese Community Association of Maine.
John speaks about how South Sudanese Immigrants contribute to the city and state economies in numerous ways. He points out that as a group they are hard-working, pay taxes, and spend money locally. They also often own and operate businesses that may go unnoticed (convenience stores, barber shops, and services such as painting, translations, transportation, wedding planning, etc.) And, being community-minded, South Sudanese people also frequently volunteer with non-profits for many causes, regularly engage in civic discussions, and exercise their right to vote.
People interested in learning more are invited to visit the Portland office located a 500 Forest Ave., Unit 8.
*** Correction: at 15:37 I said South Sudan has "many, many tribes, like 100." Although the number of all the tribes may reach 100 if counted thoroughly, there are only 64 which have been counted are are recognized.
Music: Twongweno Opiyo sings "Opiyo Mwunu"
John speaks about how South Sudanese Immigrants contribute to the city and state economies in numerous ways. He points out that as a group they are hard-working, pay taxes, and spend money locally. They also often own and operate businesses that may go unnoticed (convenience stores, barber shops, and services such as painting, translations, transportation, wedding planning, etc.) And, being community-minded, South Sudanese people also frequently volunteer with non-profits for many causes, regularly engage in civic discussions, and exercise their right to vote.
People interested in learning more are invited to visit the Portland office located a 500 Forest Ave., Unit 8.
*** Correction: at 15:37 I said South Sudan has "many, many tribes, like 100." Although the number of all the tribes may reach 100 if counted thoroughly, there are only 64 which have been counted are are recognized.
Music: Twongweno Opiyo sings "Opiyo Mwunu"
| nms_113_john_ochira_s._sudan_sept._11_2016.mp3 |
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