Refugees are a resource, not a burden | Darius Kokou Agbeko Dzadu | TEDxWanChai

As a former asylum seeker in Hong Kong, Darius takes us inside the lives of refugees in the city, showing us how they are a gift, and not a burden, to society. In this personal, deeply moving talk, he shares how his life changed when people began to give him a chance, encouraging us to invest in people as individuals, regardless of their status. Darius Dzadu Agbeko Kokou is the captain of the All Black Football Club; an initiative that bridges social and cultural differences between refugees through the uniting power of sport. He is passionate about improving the working conditions of marginalized communities, particularly refugees and ethnic minorities, and hosts talks in Hong Kong shedding light on the plight of asylum seekers around the world. The physical and emotional toll of war, genocide and natural disasters makes it tough for asylum seekers to integrate even as they find safe haven in another nation. Originally from Togo, Darius helps bring refugees, mainland Chinese, and native Hong Kongers together, connecting them over the common cause of serving the local community. He believes refugees can contribute positively toward social and economic change in Hong Kong, and is interested in telling tales of personal struggles, wasted talents, and surprising breakthroughs. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx