Akule (Neo) Mpunga is from a small section in Khayelitsha Township called “Makahza 44 Section.” Neo is part of a family of five, and like many youth in the townships, is being raised by his single mother. After Neo’s father was killed in car accident, Neo felt hopeless, scared and saw no reason for life.
When Africa Jam first met Neo, he was going down a path that would ultimately lead to destruction. Consumed by the anger he felt from his circumstances, he felt no reason to live. No reason to get up in the morning. He looked down on those who wanted to help him build a future.
Around the corner from where Neo lives, he heard joyous singing, young people laughing and coming to a broken down shack with smiles. Out of curiosity Neo visited the after school Khayelitsha drama group. That is where he met genuine leaders like Loyiso.
Today, Neo credits his Faith in Christ for bringing him to his new self. If it was not for Africa Jam and his drama group leader Loyiso, Neo says he would still be living in the dark hopelessly going through the motions of life.
In January 2008, Neo attended Africa Jam camp for the first time and the theme was “Step Up!” Camp was “the most amazing experience of my life", because I “Stepped Up” in my own life. Neo is receiving acclaim for his positive leadership and dedication to his studies from his teachers. Africa Jam selected Neo to represent Africa Jam in Minnesota in November 2008.
Africa Jam’s next generation of leadership is secure with young people like Neo dedicated to the program.
Neo and Mpe Mpe Experience Life in the United States of America
If you were able to attend the Africa Jam fundraising breakfast, you remember Neo (pronounced; Náo ) and Mpe Mpe (pronounced; pempá ). These two extraordinary young men were selected to represent Africa Jam youth and traveled to MN, USA. They delivered heat-felt, memorable speeches to the MN audience. They represent the hope and resiliency of the youth we serve.
Neo and Mpe Mpe came as guests and left as family. This was especially true for the Gislason family who hosted the two boys in thier Burnsville home. Their family has grown from five to seven!
Their trip to MN, USA was made particularly special because of those who showed them hospitality, love and acceptance. A few highlights of their trip was being feature on the TV show Kent Hrbeck Outdoors. After filming the show, Kent Hrbeck took them to a batting cage where they were given private batting session with the baseball legend. They also enjoyed a Minnesota Wild hockey game where they were invited to the locker room after the game to meet the players. One of Mpe Mpe favorite experiences was going to the Guthrie Theater and getting a back stage tour after the show.
Their favorite American foods are: Pepperoni Pizza, Taco's and Root beer.
It was a truly memorable experience that has changed not only the young boys lives, but those who were privileged to meet them. They prove that with God's strength terrible circumstances can be overcome and no matter how dark the day, there is always hope.
Now back in their township of Khayelitsha, amongst the shacks and in the over crowded schools, they are local celebrities. Sharing with thousands of kids that they too should "dream big and work hard".
To learn more about how you can help Africa Jam reach more young people like Neo and Mpe Mpe visit how I can help.