YSP USA initiated a photography project during the last two weeks of July 2024 aimed at showcasing the impact of YSP Africa’s efforts on local communities and documenting the transformative impact of YSP on youth in Zambia, Rwanda, and Kenya (Read more on the project here). Through this project, the delegation of YSP USA had the opportunity to connect with phenomenal young people from these communities and listen to their stories. And in Lusaka, Zambia, Charles Bwenge, an incredible Congolese member, had quite the story to tell—a story about determination, resilience, and a deep desire to join YSP.
Charles Bwenge:
“My name is Charles Bwenge, born in 2001 in the village of Bukondi, Democratic Republic of Congo. I have seven half-siblings: four older brothers, one younger sister and two younger brothers. I became a member of YSP (Youth and Students for Peace) through their activities which are often held in our area. Whenever YSP held its activities, I was regularly invited to sing, as I was one of the most popular musicians in town. Two years later, I received a call from God inviting me to invest myself in YSP full-time. I paused my studies and resolved to join the Hyojeong Rang Africa program (A YSP leadership program that emphasizes an interfaith approach and equips participants with skills necessary to promote positive change and development in their home regions). Unfortunately, I did not have a passport to leave the DRC and go to Zambia, where the training center is located. Once I had my passport, I had to take a bus to Zambia, which was an extremely long journey that few people undertake by truck. Another difficulty was leaving my town due to the presence of the M23 rebels, who have been killing Congolese for years. Despite everything, my determination to join the training center was unwavering. During the trip, we encountered rebels who intended to burn us alive. Luckily, we had a small amount of money on us which we gave to them, which allowed us to pass. It's a long story, and I can't go into all the details here…
I went through very difficult times to reach Zambia. At the border between Tanzania and Zambia, I had my money and phone stolen during the night. I also encountered difficulties crossing the border because my passport had not been stamped. I spent two days at the border with no place to sleep or anything to eat. However, God intervened, and people of good will supported me from my home country. We were hit with rain, famine and sun throughout the journey. Despite a month and a half delay in joining the training, we achieved our objective.
I am grateful to YSP especially in a special way for supporting the life I lead here in Zambia. A special deduction I receive through this program makes me grow intellectually and spiritually. In fact, it would be interesting if all the young people of my generation join the YSP. It would be an easy opportunity to change this world. Personally, I want to be a peacemaker and advocate against sexual immorality, drugs, rape, alcoholism.”
Charles’ story is a reminder that youth from all corners of the world are determined to become the change-makers of today and that YSP, as a hub for youth, is committed to empowering young leaders like Charles.
Thank you, Charles, for sharing your story!