CFL player Eugene Lewis had a life-changing experience when he visited Africa as part of a mission trip with World Vision. Along with five other CFL players, Lewis spent a week in Kenya where he witnessed poverty and resilience unlike anything he had seen before. He noted the stark differences in daily life between North America and Africa, where people do not have the luxury of choice and must work hard every day just to survive. This eye-opening experience made Lewis realize the importance of being grateful for the opportunities and privileges he has in his own life.
The players visited Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, as well as the settlements and slums of Mathare where thousands of people live in challenging conditions. They also spent time in refugee camps in Kakuma, where they saw the true meaning of community as strangers came together to help one another, particularly the children. Lewis was struck by the lack of basic amenities like ice, which is considered a luxury in the hot and dry climate of Kakuma. Seeing children living in such harsh conditions was especially difficult for him, as he has a large family back home that he cares deeply about.
One of the most impactful moments for Lewis during the mission was meeting a pastor in Africa who had built a successful chicken farm from scratch. The pastor’s dedication to helping her community and uplifting others resonated with Lewis, who was inspired by her commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those around her. This encounter motivated Lewis to consider ways in which he could continue to support and empower communities in Africa, such as helping to build sports facilities and provide essential resources to local teams.
Lewis expressed a strong desire to return to Africa and continue the work he started with World Vision. He sees the power of sports in bringing people together regardless of their backgrounds, and believes that through initiatives like building sports facilities and providing equipment, he can make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need. The mission trip opened Lewis’s eyes to a different reality and instilled in him a sense of gratitude and responsibility to continue making a positive difference in the world.
Overall, the mission trip to Africa was a profound experience for Eugene Lewis and the other CFL players involved. They were able to witness the resilience, strength, and sense of community that exists in the face of extreme poverty and adversity. Lewis’s desire to return to Africa and continue to support those in need reflects the lasting impact the trip had on him. Through his interactions with the people he met and the stories he heard, Lewis gained a new perspective on gratitude, community, and the power of individual actions to create change.
Despite the challenges and heartbreaking scenes they witnessed, the CFL players were also able to see the beauty and resilience of the people they encountered in Africa. Their experiences have left a lasting impression on them and have inspired them to continue working towards making a positive difference in the lives of those who are less fortunate. The mission trip was not just a journey to a different continent, but a transformative experience that has deepened their understanding of global issues and their own roles in creating a more equitable and compassionate world.
