Edmonton Elks receiver Eugene Lewis had a life-changing experience when he joined five other CFL players on a mission to Africa last month. The players served as ambassadors for World Vision and visited various locations in Kenya and refugee camps in Kakuma. Lewis was struck by the poverty he witnessed in Africa, which was different from what he had seen growing up in the U.S. He was particularly moved by the sense of community among the people he met, who would help each other despite their own struggles.
The trip made Lewis appreciate the many things that North Americans often take for granted, such as access to ice. In the scorching heat of Kakuma, ice was a rare luxury, and even a simple bottle of water with ice in it was seen as a special treat. Lewis was also shocked by the sight of a dried-up river and camels roaming the streets, which were unfamiliar sights for him. However, the most difficult part for him was witnessing the harsh conditions that children in Africa have to endure, prompting him to focus on ensuring the well-being of young people.
During the mission, Lewis met Pastor Pauline, who ran a chicken farm and emphasized the importance of reforming the hearts and minds of her community. Inspired by her dedication, Lewis expressed a desire to return to Africa and do more to help. He mentioned plans to build sports facilities and provide assistance to local sports teams, as he saw how sports can bring people together regardless of their background. The experience with World Vision left a lasting impact on Lewis, leading him to seek further opportunities for humanitarian work.
The players’ journey took them through Nairobi, Mathare, Lodwar, and Kakuma, allowing them to witness firsthand the challenges faced by the local communities. In Kakuma, the CFL players spent time at refugee camps, interacting with residents and learning about their struggles. Lewis was struck by the resilience and resourcefulness of the people he met, who had to find ways to survive and support their families in the face of adversity. The experience broadened Lewis’s perspective on the world and reinforced his appreciation for the privileges he enjoys in North America.
The mission to Africa not only exposed the players to extreme poverty and living conditions but also highlighted the importance of community support and solidarity in overcoming challenges. Lewis was inspired by the selfless acts of kindness he witnessed among the residents and the determination of individuals like Pastor Pauline to make a difference in their communities. The trip sparked a desire in Lewis to do more to help those in need and become more involved in humanitarian efforts, showing the lasting impact that such experiences can have on individuals.
Overall, Lewis’s journey to Africa with World Vision was a transformative and eye-opening experience that deepened his understanding of gratitude, community, and the power of helping others. The trip not only exposed him to the harsh realities faced by many around the world but also instilled in him a sense of responsibility to make a positive impact and contribute to the well-being of others. Lewis’s commitment to returning to Africa and continuing his humanitarian work demonstrates the profound impact that such experiences can have on individuals and their desire to create positive change in the world.
