My Journey: Finding and Losing Hope

Introduction

• Journey of finding and losing hope in dark circumstances
• Understanding freedom as a personal and collective concept

Zimbabwe Under Robert Mugabe

• Mugabe ruled Zimbabwe for 37 years
• Economic collapse and hyperinflation (e.g. $100 trillion note)
• Corruption and brutality prevalent

Beginning of a Movement

• April 19, 2016: Recorded a video expressing frustration
• Message to Zimbabweans to stand up against Mugabe
• Unexpectedly sparked a movement, #ThisFlag Citizens Movement

Protests and Arrests

• Called for national boycott of work and school
• Millions responded, leading to first citizen-driven action
• Arrested and charged with attempting to overthrow the government
• Thousands demanded release; a significant show of support

Personal Sacrifices

• Threats to family; wife pregnant, children threatened
• Took family to safety, but returned to Zimbabwe to continue the struggle

Continued Struggle and Hope

• Arrested again upon return to Zimbabwe for treason
• Inspired continuous protests; repeated arrests
• Mugabe ousted by his own party in 2017
• Initially hopeful for change

Disappointment and Continued Corruption

• August 1, 2018: Military fired on protesting crowds after elections
• Current president allowed rampant corruption, deteriorating infrastructure
• Ongoing protests against government failures

Lessons and Renewed Resolve

• Freedom as an internal quality, not external circumstances
• Emphasis on speaking truth to power, despite adversity
• Hope as a practice, not a feeling

Current Situation

• Plans to return to Zimbabwe for trial
• Freedom seen as innate, not bestowed by government

Conclusion

• The fight for justice and freedom continues
• Encouragement to remain vocal and resist suppression

Inspirational Quote

• "If you can ignore the high walls and the prison guards... you are freer than those who are free."