Page 19 - District 20-K1 Kings & Queens Spring Editon E-Newsletter 2022

Highlights

LIONS OF THE WORLD WELCOME
MICHEL CHICHWANINE

CHILD SOLDIER TURNED MOTIVATIONAL KEYNOTE SPEAKER

He was born un the Democratic Republic of Congo, an African country rich in culture and 80% of the world’s copper and cobalt (used
in cell phone production). His father was a human rights activist, lawyer and passionate about the value of education. He was
abducted and forced to become a child soldier at age 5, during the brutal Great War of Africa, but was lucky to escape. After his father
was assassinated for exposing the truth about the war, his mother persisted every day for three years until the family was granted
refugee status in Canada.
Despite his unimaginable past experiences of pain and struggles, today, he is a United Nations Fellow for People of African Descent, a
member of the Advisory Board for Child Soldiers Initiative, an author and notable public speaker. Mr. Chichwanine reported that over
250,000 children are victims of the global pandemic of recruitment and initiation into the army of child soldiers. He is passionate about
the social, political and economic reasons for this mockery of humanitarianism
He encourages Lions, Leos and all other socially concerned people of the world to overcome fear, be courageous, challenge the status quo
and become relentless with positive action, for speedy change to this travesty against vulnerable children.
“When you let your own light shine, you allow others to shine as well” he advised. Helpful advocacy strategies include:
,
1. Community Building.
People can overcome violent situations when given the opportunity to understand their own history and “doors” are opened
where they can become educated and a purposeful life can emerge as a productive, contributing citizen. Refugees especially,
should be supported to share their story.
2. Resilience and Courage
“Our legacy is what defines us as a valuable human being” he shared. “It’s what we do to improve the life of another
,
person.” His mother exemplified strength of character, boundless hope, bravery and resolve to secure refugee documents for
the family.
3. Inspiration
As we advocate for the safety and security of child soldiers across the globe, the interconnectedness, motivation and
effectiveness of political leaders are critical. We must push to elect officials with dignity, integrity, humility, empathy for the
plight of marginalized citizens and courage to do what is right.

In conclusion, he congratulated the Lions and Leos who mobilized to assist the displaced refugees from Ukraine and the victims of the
devastation in Kentucky. He reminded us that young people must always have a voice in the conversation about world peace and cited
two pre-teens from Halifax who started the worldwide ”Pink Shirt Day” initiative against bullying.. “Gardens of Hope” is another
venture where a donation of $50 provides tools, seeds and other resources for Uganda refugees to have access to nutritious food.

In recognition of his powerful example of service, IP Doug presented him with a Peace Poster replica. A thunderous standing ovation
celebrated the emotional account of this gripping personal story.
“Great men and great women throughout history have never been praised for their wealth and success, but rather for their heart
and what they have done for others” ~ Ramazani Chikwanine