Poet OV Onyeka – Brainbox Inspires with Poem "Home and Miracles Away From It” on World Refugee Day 2023
Poet OV Onyeka – Brainbox Inspires with Poem "Home and Miracles Away From It” on World Refugee Day 2023
In a moving tribute to mark World Refugee Day, celebrated Nigerian poet and storyteller Valentine Onyeka Ogunaka, also known as OV Onyeka or Brainbox, had his compassionate poem screened during the official World Refugee Day commemoration in Abuja, Nigeria.
The poem represents a meaningful highlight of the experiences of refugees and the indomitable spirit of hope. It also profoundly reflected on the resilience of refugees and our shared commitment to enhancing their lives.
World Refugee Day, observed annually on 20 June, serves as a global platform to honour the strength and resilience of people forced to flee their homes in search of safety and freedom from conflict and persecution. The 2023 theme, "Hope Away From Home", resonated deeply with Brainbox, inspiring him to craft a soul-stirring three-minute poem highlighting the positive narratives around the humanitarian efforts.
OV Onyeka’s poetic masterpiece delved into the remarkable stories of refugees, describing their journey from despair to newfound hope. The poem marvels at the ability of refugees and other forcibly displaced people to let go of haunting memories and embrace the promise of a brighter future. It highlights the courage and determination that enable them to rebuild their lives as if their previous existence held no baggage.
The poem speaks of the arduous paths refugees have traversed—desert roads, forest paths, and treacherous ocean voyages. Yet, within the darkness, the poem reveals the presence of flickering fireflies, symbolic of the small miracles and acts of kindness illuminating their path. Brainbox emphasizes the transformative power of small actions, narrating inspiring tales of refugees who have flourished in their new environments.
The poem also highlights UNHCR’s beneficiaries’ stories, like Rose, who earned a DAFI scholarship and selflessly volunteers in healthcare, and Prosper, whose threatened life has been reset through school leadership and education in technology. Sebastien, whose poultry farm sustains his family and community, and Elvis, a professor who found solace in educating his students and hoping for a brighter future.
These stories of renewal and resilience showcase the "tiny" miracles that occur as refugees find their sense of belonging. Brainbox also recognizes the collective efforts of governments, UNHCR, and partners in addressing the refugee crises, easing burdens in host countries, and paving the way for safe paths back home.
The poet invites readers to contemplate the enabling factors contributing to these miracles, emphasizing the global commitment to refugees' well-being. The poem called for continued support for refugees and for building a world where they can thrive and find solace.
"Home and Miracles Away from It" offers a profound glimpse into the hearts and minds of refugees, capturing their struggles, hopes, and dreams.