The poem “Home Is Everywhere” is a poignant and deeply resonant exploration of the transformative power of resilience and hope in the face of unimaginable adversity. Charles Lipanda Matenga’s journey from orphanhood in Rwenena Village, Uvira, Sud-Kivu, DRCONGO to the bustling city of Uvira, and finally to the Dzaleka Refugee Camp in Malawi is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the capacity for perseverance in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.
- The vivid and heartfelt recounting of the narrator’s early life, from the loss of both parents at a young age to the relentless struggle for survival and education in the city with his elder sister, paints a vivid portrait of the hardships faced and the unwavering determination to forge a better path despite the odds. The imagery of disappearing like dust in the air, leaving no trace on the wet pavements, serves as a powerful metaphor for the impermanence of life’s struggles and the resilience of the human soul.
- As the journey unfolds, we witness the narrator’s evolution from a young orphan into a published poet, writer, translator, and advocate for orphaned children in the refugee camp. The creation of the African Youth Artistic Poetry (AYAP) program, the success of the Our Voice Is Our Catalyst Anthology, and the upcoming Being Refugee Wasn’t a Choice Anthology are testaments to the narrator’s unwavering commitment to art, storytelling, and the power of creativity as a force for positive change in the world.
- The recognition and accolades received, including performances at international festivals, the Master of Creative Consciousness certificate, and the prestigious 3rd World Storytelling Championship win, underscore the profound impact of the narrator’s work and the potential for art to bridge cultural divides, inspire hope, and create meaningful connections across borders.
- Through the lens of the narrator’s experiences, we are reminded that home is not just a physical place, but a state of being that can be found within oneself, in the connections forged with others, and in the pursuit of one’s passions and dreams. The closing message that “wherever you are, you can still do what you are destined to do” resonates deeply, echoing the universal truth that resilience, creativity, and determination can lead us to unexpected places of healing, growth, and fulfillment.
- In essence, “Home Is Everywhere” is a heartfelt and deeply appreciated ode to the human capacity for survival, creativity, and connection, and a powerful reminder of the enduring power of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. Charles Lipanda Matenga’s story exemplifies the transformative potential of art, storytelling, and community in overcoming obstacles and finding strength and purpose in even the most challenging of circumstances.
DAVID GOLIATH CROW was born on December 17th, 1979 in Cleveland, Ohio. He attended the University of Phoenix where he obtained an associates in Business, Grand Canyon University where he earned an associates in I.T., and Cleveland State where he completed his bachelor’s in Actuarial Science.
David is a poet, artist, activist, and self-expression enthusiast. He is also the founder of DGC.Ink and Speak Free Inc. With a passion for creativity, freedom of speech and social change, David uses his talents to make a positive impact in his community.
