The Son of Resilience

I am the son of an immigrant born in Uganda, a land my family was forced to flee due to the murderous regime of Idi Amin, whose brutal genocide tore through countless lives, including many in my own family tree. Stripped from their home and their roots, my family had to start over, rebuilding a life far away from the soil that carried our heritage.

My mother, a warrior in her own right, served in the Air Force for several years, even while 6 months pregnant with me during the 9/11 attacks. On that fateful day, she was stationed at the Pentagon, embodying strength as she fulfilled her duty amidst chaos. Following through and later making history as the first Ugandan Born woman to make Captain (0-3) during her time. My father, the son of a Vietnam sniper, carries his own legacy of resilience. At just 19, my grandfather led 44 men into combat after only six weeks of training, thrust into leadership due to the devastating casualties around him. A solidified hero to his men and his family, known for his cool headedness and his charismatic leadership.

Adversity runs in my bloodline. I’ve lost close friends to suicide and gun violence, and I’ve faced my own battles with mental health and the isolation that often accompanies it. During the COVID pandemic, I, like so many others, had to confront my identity, reshaping it in a world that seemed to change overnight.

My father, a published author and former leader of a Fortune 500 company, achieved extraordinary success during the thriving economy of the late ’90s, ranking in the top five for national sales. His drive and determination set a powerful example for me. My brother, too, has his story of resilience, forced to leave behind the game he loved—football—after life-threatening injuries. Years of surgeries and grueling rehabilitation were a testament to his unyielding spirit.

I am no stranger to adversity, and I carry the lessons of those before me. I’ve made history as the first Ugandan American to win a collegiate All-Freshman award, a milestone that reflects my heritage and perseverance. My journey is fueled by a greater purpose: to be a beacon of hope, an African twist on what has long been considered an American game.

Baseball is more than a sport to me; it’s a platform to build a unique community that celebrates identity through unity. I stand on the shoulders of giants—those who came before me and paved the way—and I strive to honor their sacrifices by creating space for African baseball to thrive.

Identity is built in community, and I aim to make history not just for myself but for everyone who dares to dream of something greater. This is my legacy, and I invite the world to be part of it.