On Saturday January 29, 2021, AIFA Reading Society hosted its first reading session on a short story, ‘I Am Not My Skin’ by Neema Komba. This session held virtually having young professionals discuss the story.
The story highlights the dilemma of Albino and how they survive in a society where they are particularly hunted for use by Sorcerers believing their body part will make them rich. It narrated Yona Kazadi’s experiences growing up as an albino, how he lost his grandmother who had tried protecting him from hunters, how his arm was amputated and how he moved in to live in area where other albinos’ live. The story also narrated his efforts, tactics, and commitment to protecting other victims. Highlighting the theme of fear, love, protection and trust, members and friends of the Society explored these themes from the story.
Reflecting on this part of the story highlighted below, participants pointed that staring at someone can sometimes be threatening and uncomfortable for person being stared at. Not everyone is comfortable in themselves and so it can be misinterpreted. People should stare moderately; else they will defile the essence of staring.
After the interview, I went to the bus station to board a daladala to Mbagala. It was buzzing with people and vehicles. I found myself in the middle of the crush. No one looked at me; no one cared about my arm, or my skin. There was something magical about being ignored, something extraordinary about being ordinary. And there, in a bus full of strangers, I felt for the first, time, human.”
The journey of Kazadi to getting a job as a security even though he was one-armed had sparked controversy between participants where they deliberated on what employers look out for when hiring candidates for a role; should it be based on physical abilities, experiences one’s capacity to deliver on the job? For Yona Kazadi who was one-armed, it was his experience and confidence given his demonstration back in the albino camp defending and protect other albinos when he had sensed danger around their home.
Participants found the story fascinating and enjoyed the conversation and lessons that emerged from the story. While they also agreed that the story mirrored what and how people are being shamed for their looks and the extent to which it has affected people negatively, they urge individuals to protect others and do away with actions or words that will hurt or shame people.
At AIFA Book Club, stories are explored outside the context of the book and related happenings around us. Book clubs help you understand a book better and gain other perspectives about the same story. It helps you explore the thoughts and minds of others and help you know what inspires their sense of reasoning.
