The news coming out of Congo, and all too often, Africa in general, is mostly dour and depressing. It’s an unbalanced view of a continent that is actually teeming with activism, entrepreneurism, hope, joy and beauty.
With that said, as an anti-slavery organization, part of our role is to expose problems that, frankly, ARE depressing. But our message always includes HOPE that slavery can be ended, and that people most affected by slavery hold the keys to sustainable solutions.
That is why I love a new video series from our friends at the Enough Project’s Raise Hope for Congo campaign. The “I am Congo” video series shows exactly where we get the inspiration to do our work: from the amazing people we meet there all the time.
When I tell people what I do or that I’m traveling to Congo, they usually respond: “Wow, isn’t it awful?” This video series shows why the answer is: “NO! It’s amazing! Congo is beautiful, and the people are amazing, and they inspire you every single day.”
I’ve met two of the five people featured in the launch of “I am Congo.” They fully deserve a shout out: Well done, Fidel and Petna!