Remembering Mama Julie
Her name was Mama Julie. Sadly, many in Gabon and beyond will never have the opportunity to meet her. I had the honor to get to know Mama Julie and witness her dedication to the children under her care at the Micone orphanage. She cared for these children the way a mom cares for her own: with love, compassion, and commitment to their well-being and growth. Every time I met her, she was always eager to educate my team and me on her many undertakings for the orphanage, and most importantly the children that she was so proud of calling “her children”.
I remember the last time I saw her, when I delivered toys donated by Mattel. She insisted that we pray to thank God for Mattel’s generosity. She was pious, kind, and humble. As I write this, I am reminded that Mama Julie was a hero to the children of Micone. She was not just their caretaker; she was their mom. A mom who had vowed to be there for her children, without fanfare, until her very last day on earth. The world is full of unsung heroes, today I want to recognize this remarkable woman and mom, who changed the world by giving these children what they needed most: love. RIP Mama Julie.