A Look into My Life

Chapter One

Birth in Lubumbashi, a mother's love, and the shame of a first day at primary school.

Growing up fatherless, a curious teacher, and the wound of tribe and stigma.

The house and garden, a grandmother's love, poverty, and the day he finally met his father.

The Bible and the love of reading, begging from relatives, and a night journey past the cemetery.

A mother's faith, an unjust accusation of theft, and a house of silence.

A new uniform, the kindness of strangers, and the terrors of puberty.

War arrives in Lubumbashi, a battle over shoes, a flight to Katuba, and a suicide attempt.

A first love named T., a mother's failing health, and the fear of failing the year.

Uncle Theo's promise, a dream of Europe lost, and a brick business that crumbled.

The road to Kinshasa, the long wait for a study permit, and a final goodbye.

Arrival in South Africa, hardship, homelessness, and the kindness that kept him alive.