Hear from Lahbang, an Amala Peacebuilding Alumnus in Cameroon

Our next inspiring Amala Alumnus who we are thrilled to introduce is 18-year-old, Lahbang Preston, from Cameroon. Lahbang completed our Peacebuilding in Your Community course that we ran last year to internally displaced youth in Yaounde, Cameroon, with our partners; Bright Association.

How did you feel when you started the Amala course compared to when you finished it?

When I started the peace building course, I felt very happy and proud of myself for taking that step. When I finished the course, I felt more self aware and I knew that I can do more, not only for myself but for others.

Has the Amala course helped you feel more prepared to solve problems you may face? If so, how?

Yeah! Because during the course I saw all barriers to peace and the fact that peace is not only the absence of fighting or war, but the absence of  happiness, love, and harmony among us. So I am prepared to solve all problems since I am able to identify barriers to peace and the various ways to achieve it.

What would you say to students considering an Amala course?

What I will say to you all doing the Amala  programme is that you have taken a good decision and a great step in life by joining the course. Congratulations because the course will not only help you to solve problems but will also help in your daily life, so I encourage you to take the course and be proud of what you will become after.

What have you been doing since you graduated from the Amala course?

I am forwarding my education and experience and also solving small community problems, family, and friends including myself, so I can make a big difference in the world tomorrow.

What advice do you have for other young displaced youth?

 Do not give up, there is enough for everyone in this big world. You just need to focus on your goal and how to achieve it, do research, study hard and always remember to thank god for everything and ask him for help and he will help you because god himself loves us all.

Thank you so much for your time. Do you have any final words for us?

I would like to say a big thanks to Amala for their generosity and I would like to keep in touch so I will be able to help others like me to find their way and become a facilitator any time.  Thanks.