As we welcome many new neighbors into Maine, they're often asked to assimilate into Maine’s culture. However, an argument can be made that Mainers should adopt some of our new neighbors' culture as well! Diversity leads to more creativity/innovation, avoidance of groupthink, and makes us more open minded. This is why IWC created Humans of IWC (which is inspired by Humans of New York), a project where we share the inspiring stories and faces of the incredible individuals who come to the Immigrant Welcome Center. It is an opportunity to learn more about their resilience, strength, and unique experiences which many wouldn’t have the access to otherwise.

And what is a better way to understand and be inspired by one another than through storytelling? 

 This is Bright Chiliwa, an asylum seeker who arrived in America on May 19, 2022. He is a regular here at IWC, making us laugh and even helping us with our other clients whenever free.

Here is some highlights for our conversation:

Q: What profession did you have prior to coming here?

A: I was working in the community, for an organization called Ark of the Glory of the Lord. That work I was doing gave me another job, working with a politician, as a private advisor. But my work at Ark of the Glory of the lord was as the director of coordination for schools in parts of Africa. I made programs for the schools to help students graduate(and other things) in Democratic Republic of Congo, and in South Africa; the School of Servant. 

The politician I was advising, I helped him with connecting with people as he was the first born of the #1 of that biggest political party. He was given the job of being in charge of the youth, and his only job was to work with the youth. I was advising him. Unfortunately, he passed away…he was assassinated. That’s why I’m here, I ran away…That is Africa. Everyone needs the power/to be president, but once he’s in power, he doesn't want other people to replace him. He is ready to kill, ready to do everything(to keep that power). 

Q: What are your goals for the future?

A: I have many plans: I have to work here (IWC) … then I will see…but my (main) plan is to one day work for the government again, because when someone plants something, it’s supposed to be harvested. So, since I was well received here, one day I think that I should work with the State too.

Shortly after doing this interview, it was announced that Bright will be working at IWC as an iEnglish Lab Assistant! Welcome to the team Bright, we are very excited to have you here!