Wanting to see my father who I haven’t seen for 16 years

Cecile Mpawenimana Start Date: Apr 23, 2024 - End Date: Jun 21, 2024
  • Cultural Exchange
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Vacation/Personal Trip

My Travel Story

by: Cecile Mpawenimana Start Date: Apr 23, 2024 - End Date: Jun 21, 2024
  • Cultural Exchange
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Vacation/Personal Trip
My name is Cecile, I came to the USA at the age of 9 unaware of my new change. I was just a little curious kid following her mom into the unknown. I've lived with my grandparents basically my whole life due to my parents being separated, which never gave me the opportunity to meet my dad or get to know him. My father in currently in Africa alone with no family and sick. I'll never get to experience a father and daughter dance or have him walk me down the aisle, but at least this opportunity can give me the chance to hug my father and see him and know him. This will also give me a sense of where I came from and my culture. I want an opportunity to show my father that he did great because I'm sure his also wondering how tall I am or what my favorite color is. I just want a chance to hug my father before I can no longer due that, life is never promised and none of us know are ending date.In those three pictures you will see my father, me when I last seen my father and me now. This experience will be meaningful to me because not only do I get to give my dad a great big hug I also get to explore a place I was born at a place I don't really know with him and make fun memories for me and him to look back on and truly know that we are both going to be okay.