My story – Fazili Ndarabu Nathanael
When I first saw Kakuma’s dry, semiarid land, I was terrified it felt like the end of everything. Now, from that same place, my art speaks hope to the world.
I was raised in a vibrant, faith-filled community in the Democratic Republic of Congo, surrounded by family, friends, and dreams. But as violence consumed our homeland, my uncle, elder brother, and I were forced to flee. The journey was harsh, crossing desert-like lands with an eerie feeling of abandonment. When we arrived in Kakuma, it felt like stepping into a forgotten corner of the world.
In the heart of Kakuma, amidst dust and discouragement, I found light through technology. My journey truly turned when I joined the ICT program at Don Bosco and landed my first job as a digital marketing coach at the same institution. That experience led me to become the FabLab Manager at INZONE. And then came Maak Impact, where I discovered the world of generative AI. For the first time, I wasn’t just surviving, I was creating.
From being displaced to becoming a leader. From feeling invisible to building impact. Through digital tools, I found not just a career, but a calling. I transformed from a refugee seeking shelter into an artist with a message using creativity, faith, and resilience to uplift others. Every piece I make is a testament that something beautiful can emerge even from brokenness.
My art is deeply spiritual. I create AI-generated visuals that portray Jesus as a shepherd, as love in the chaos, and as hope for the hopeless. One of my most meaningful works shows Jesus walking among those forgotten by the world as a visual prayer for resilience and redemption. Each piece reflects my faith, my story, and the shared humanity of people like me.
Buying my art does more than decorate a wall. It supports a movement. It helps a young artist in a refugee camp continue sharing the gospel visually. It empowers me to mentor others, provide for my family, and show that beauty can rise from places the world has written off. Every sale brings hope to Kakuma and gives back to the very community that birthed my vision.
At the heart of everything I do is a mission to empower others. Through innovation, inclusion, and impact, I strive to create meaningful change using tech not just as a tool, but as a lifeline.