Philippe is our first albino child, a special child who has taught us how important it is to have the courage to accept and include those who are different. In Central Africa, a complex reality often conditioned by superstitions, albino children are often looked at with distrust and even fear. Popular belief, in fact, considers them to be carriers of bad luck, and for Philippe this meant being rejected by many schools before finding ours.
Philippe's arrival at the Maison de la Réconciliation was a moment of great emotion and challenge for all of us. Philippe is not only an albino child who needs special attention, such as protection from the sun and the maintenance of his delicate skin: it also represents a break with the prejudices surrounding albinism in the local community. When he arrived with his parents, some staff members and some teachers felt scared, even fearing for the safety of their children, influenced by the belief that being in contact with him could bring bad luck. This fear is rooted in a culture that has always associated albinism with a negative destiny.
Due to high temperatures and strong sun exposure in Central Africa, Philippe needs special care to live in safety and serenity. His extremely delicate skin requires the constant application of specific sunscreens to prevent burns and long-term damage. In addition, he wears sunglasses to protect his sensitive eyes from bright light. At Maison de la Réconciliation we have also taken care of these practical aspects, guaranteeing him the products and assistance necessary so that he can lead a decent life, with all the attention he needs.
But our work in Central Africa goes beyond simple education: it is a mission to change perspectives and break down barriers. Welcoming Philippe was for us a choice of principle, justice and humanity. In him we saw a child with the right to learn, to play and to be treated with the same dignity as others. Through our school, we want children of all backgrounds and with all characteristics to learn to see diversity as a wealth and to grow alongside anyone.
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We have therefore started an educational path that involves not only children but also families, teaching the value of inclusion and understanding. The journey is not simple, but it is essential: it means teaching children that friendship and respect know no differences in color, religion or physical condition. Our dream is that, thanks to small steps such as welcoming Philippe, the future of our community can become more open and respectful to each individual.
Philippe is a sweet, lively presence full of desire to learn. Seeing him smile and playing with his teammates is a sign that we are building a concrete change.