My name is Alfred Chidembo. I am a Zimbabwean who has been studying and living in Wollongong, Australia for the past four years. I recently completed my studies and gave a talk at my institute where I reflected on my life as a village boy and my journey to becoming a PhD holder.
In hindsight, I realize that I have overcome a lot of hurdles to be where I am. From walking barefoot for at least 5 km to school as a six year old, to working in a world class research institution. I recall that we never had enough books at my village school. It was only after I moved to the city when I was in grade two (7 years old) that I first stepped into a library. Naturally, I was overawed by the number of books at my disposal. I read as much as I could and developed an interest in reading. The rest is history.
I would therefore like to give back to the school and community where I started off. To make a difference in the lives of children from my village. One day, I would like to go back not only with the knowledge I have acquired but with something extra…BOOKS. With your help, I am certain I can realize this dream.
“A book is a gift you can open again and again”
Garrison Keillor