From Sierra Leone to Soulful Belonging in Belize

From war-torn Sierra Leone to the southern shores of Belize, one author’s journey becomes far more than a change of address. In his new book, “The Road to Belonging: My Journey to Punta Gorda Belize”, Francis Mandewah shares how an unexpected spiritual connection with the people of Punta Gorda transformed Belize into home. Through personal stories, cultural discovery and the kindness of three remarkable Belizean women who embraced him as family, Mandewah reflects on the last eight years of building a life and finding belonging in Belize. He spoke with News Five about the inspiration behind the book and the deep bond he says changed his life forever.

 

Francis Mandewah, Author, Road To Belonging

“I came from a very poor background and there was this huge diamond mining company in my home country, and there was this white man who was a pilot. His job was to transport boxes of diamonds. That’s how I met Thomas Johnson, a good Christian man. He gave me opportunity, paid for my education, sent me to a Catholic boarding school. I graduated. He brought me to America. And when I retired, I said, “I have to come down to Belize and retire in Punta Gorda.” Now, you wanna ask me why Punta Gorda? Because people down there have a connection to my roots in Africa. I had the opportunity to interview three iconic Belizean women, and I’ll begin with the Queen of Bruk Down, Leila Vernon, in Punta Gorda. Leila was an amazing woman. During my visit, I went to her home, introduced myself: “My name is Francis Mandewah, and I’m from Sierra Leone.” And right immediately she said, “Freetown. You are welcome home. We have a connection, Belize and Sierra Leone. Belize…” She said, “In fact, there’s a major street here called Freetown Road.”  She really made me feel comfortable and welcome.”

 

Attention readers: This online newscast is a direct transcript of our evening television broadcast. When speakers use Kriol, we have carefully rendered their words using a standard spelling system.

 

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