Abann Kamyay Ajak Yor’s life is a profound testament to resilience, transformation, and the power of education. Born in war-torn South Sudan, he grew up amid conflict and displacement. His father, a strong advocate for education, instilled in him the belief that knowledge could break cycles of poverty and oppression. However, the outbreak of the Second Sudanese Civil War forced Abann’s family into turmoil. At just 13, he was sent to northern Sudan for safety, only to face unimaginable hardships. Two years later, his father was killed, leaving him as the sole provider for his widowed mother and seven younger siblings.

Determined to build a future, Abann sought education in Syria but encountered relentless discrimination and legal barriers. His struggles led to imprisonment and further displacement, yet his perseverance caught the attention of international agencies. With UN protection, he resettled in New Zealand in 2005, where he embraced the challenge of rebuilding his life.

Despite cultural and systemic barriers, Abann pursued higher education and dedicated himself to supporting displaced migrants. He co-founded the Aotearoa Resettled Community Coalition (ARCC), empowering resettled individuals across New Zealand. His advocacy, mentorship, and publications have amplified the voices of marginalized communities. Recognized for his impact, he received the New Zealander of the Year Local Hero Award (2016), the Winston Churchill Memorial Fellowship (2017), and, in 2024, the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM). His journey is a beacon of hope, proving that resilience and purpose can overcome even the harshest adversity.