Ishmael Beah

Ishmael Beah, a memoirist and human rights activist, poignantly recounts his bond with his strong grandmother amidst war. Rose Saia shares how a caring fourth-grade teacher transformed her life by recognizing her struggles and providing support. Charlotte Mooney narrates a touching story of aiding an elderly man wandering on a highway, showcasing the power of human connection. Finally, Manuelito Wheeler discusses his cultural mission to preserve the Navajo language by dubbing Star Wars, connecting youth with their heritage through beloved stories.

Ishmael Beah, a bestselling author and former child soldier from Sierra Leone, shares his harrowing journey from innocence to survival. He recounts the trauma of being forced into warfare at just 13 and the long path to rehabilitation, aided by a compassionate mentor. Ishmael reflects on the power of music and storytelling in reclaiming his identity and the emotional struggles faced by former child soldiers. His impactful speech at the UN ignited a global conversation about child rights and his advocacy continues to inspire hope for a better future.

Ishmael Beah, a former child soldier and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, shares his incredible journey from war-torn Sierra Leone to becoming a bestselling author. He details the terrifying reality of being a child in a civil war, where survival often means joining a faction or facing death. Beah discusses how music, especially rap, provided him an escape from the horrors around him. He also reflects on the deep scars left by trauma and the struggles of reintegrating into society, emphasizing the importance of awareness about the legacy of child soldiers.