An increase in the number of violent crimes involving young members of Calgary’s South Sudanese community in the last few years prompted the organization of an educational seminar.
On Saturday, a few dozen young people received career advice from mentors.
“They have dreams and aspirations,” said Nyawargik Joseph, a youth coordinator. “They want to be somebody. We want them to know we can help them with those dreams.”
In 2016, the Calgary Police Service has confirmed five Calgary homicides including the death of a South Sudanese man, 22-year-old Emmanuel Keror. Investigators believe Keror’s murder was a response to a conflict involving one of his relatives. Deng Keror was found guilty of second degree murder in 2012 in the death of Philip Anny.
Khor Top, the president of the South Sudanese Association, says youth are becoming entwined in violence and criminal activity and that may be due to the fact they are not properly integrating with society.
“Coming here people have that sense of loss and identity crisis.”
Top believes support from all levels of government and the South Sudanese community is required to steer young people in the right direction.
Sebit Luke, a 13-year-old, says he’s faced pressure to take part in crimes but has discovered an outlet to escape trouble.
“I stick to sports,” explains Luke. “(They) help me stay away from negative things and I listen to my parents for guidance.”
Luke says he dreams of having a good family, a successful business and a lot of money.
With files from CTV's Kathy Le
