Alexander’s story begins with heartache no child should know — abandonment & abduction.
“When I was only a young boy, my father abandoned our family — leaving me in the care of my seven older siblings. Shortly after, a group of rebels attacked our village early one morning.
They captured me and forced me into a life of violence — filled with rape, murder, looting, spying, and so much more. I didn’t want to do these things, but I was a slave to them. If we failed to execute all orders given to us, the rebels would beat us.
Feeling hopeless and consumed with fear, Alexander had a choice — put his life on the line to escape or surrender his future to captivity.
When the suffering became too much, I decided to risk my life by running away. Soon after I escaped, I thank God for connecting me to Exile International.
I was well received by the teams at Exile and was introduced to many different programs that made me who I am today — programs such as trauma healing, leadership, and worship! These programs were very helpful to me in my healing journey.
Since joining Exile’s programs, Alexander praises God that his life is no longer defined by slavery or poverty.
Like a king’s son, I am now getting food. I am getting clothes. I study at Teacher’s Training College in Goma. My studies are going well, and I have hope for a bright future!
I am also a barber, and I love to play guitar during worship services! When I was in the bush, I could not imagine my life today.
When I think about where I was before, I know my life has been transformed. I used to be someone who could make others suffer, but today, I am grateful to be a leader for peace!
God bless Exile International for rescuing me from the deep darkness of being a child soldier.”
Thank YOU for making healing stories like Alexander’s possible!
Because of your kindness and generosity, children like Alexander no longer wonder where their next meal will come from or how they will pay their school fees. Your support not only provides financial security and peace of mind, but it also means child survivors of war have a place where they feel safe for the first time.
Your prayers and partnership fund opportunities to heal, dream, and thrive — a priceless gift for rescued child soldiers and children orphaned by war. On behalf of Alexander and thousands of children just like him, thank you for providing hope to 3,000+ children in 2022 alone!
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