Voice of an African Nation

BY MICHAEL MONTESA, MESA, AZ, USA - Eleven days from now, we will be leaving Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport for Africa. We will be arriving in Lusaka International Airport in Zambia after 32 hours of flights and layovers. I'm really excited and just can't wait! Can you imagine we will be filming the first movie about Zambia, written and directed by a Zambian? All of this is possible because of the support from MCC, the State of Arizona and from the government of Zambia and Dr. Edgar Ng'oma. Thanks to everyone for all the support and this incredible opportunity.

Where would I be if my parents had never decided to immigrate from the Philppines to the States 16 years ago? What if I had never come to the US at all? Would this opportunity ever happen to me if we never moved to Arizona? WHAT IF is a good question but there is no way to know the answer. All I can say now is I am so glad I came to the US and moved to Arizona; I am so thankful for it. My parents believed that there would always be opportunities waiting for us in this country. They thought that all we would have to do is work hard and search for that opportunity. They wanted to take advantage of the higher standard of learning, equality and freedom that every citizen enjoys. I do enjoy the beauty of America and, in my experience, this is truly the land of opportunities. Even Jabbes says that about America.

My perspective of America is far different from the people who were born here. The people here are friendly and caring. Of course, I have lived here now for 16 years so my mentality is more American now but I also practice my Filipino tradition. I am lucky to have both worlds because they are each unique experiences. When I'm in Africa, I want to share with the Zambians how beautiful this country is. I want to show them that this country is not just about theme parks and skyscrappers but also about the natural wonders that surrounds us and the efforts of people who try to preserve the natural resources. If I were to pursue a career in medicine, I would probably become preoccupied with my responsibilities and not enjoy the beauty of nature. I think that is why I love photography and cinematography so much. I love to capture beauty. I will enjoy this opportunity to reveal America's natural beauties by showing my photos to interested Zambians.

I want to return the favor America has given me and my family by representing the USA in its best light. I look forward to sharing our talents, gifts in the arts and our good citizenship. This is but a small contribution and a way for me to be thankful for the opportunities afforded me by this country. Meeting Cyndi, Jabbes and the Zambian Production Crew is not an opportunity I take lightly. Each day, I feel that this is my given purpose in life. THANK YOU.