By Nixon Dickenson
In this week’s article, ‘Voices From the Streets’, I want to share a conversation I had with Akeem Forbes. As I listened to this young man, I was moved to tears and heard the word ‘redemption’, the title of this week’s article.
Not long ago, Akeem was shot in the head twice during an incident where his friend was killed. He believes this was a wake-up call from God that it was time for him to make a turnaround in his life. He expressed that he greatly appreciated his life and was thankful God had spared him. Akeem shared that when he felt the pain from the bullet, he knew that he was at death’s door. He thought about his mother, his auntie and his family members, who would have been devastated, and he asked God for a second chance.
The love of his daughter inspires him to be a better man, and his family remains his most incredible supporters. Akeem’s message to our youths is simple: ‘Put down the guns and stop the violence’. He also admonishes them to make better choices and align themselves with friends making positive choices.
He shared that nowadays, it is difficult to determine ‘real’ from ‘fake’, and there are plenty of fake people in society. He also encourages young people to take their time and develop into who they want to be and not allow anyone to push them into an uncomfortable area. Akeem believes that young people have the power to create their own paths.
Akeem shared that it is also time for the ‘beef’ between neighbouring communities to end. There should be no Five Cays against Kew Town and no West Road against Overback as we are all one people, which only destroys our people. He stressed that instead of rivalry, use the opportunity to unite and form local businesses, for example, construction companies. There are many construction projects taking place in the country, and our young men have the skills they need to develop their mindset and have financial support.
He also admonishes communities to return to using Saturday evenings to teach young people a skill and having game nights at the various community parks. Akeem believes churches can also support this by having regular activities for young people to connect and engage in wholesome activities in a positive environment.
Although he still feels the pain of those two bullets, Akeem says he is blessed to be alive, and he is determined to bring something good out of his experience. He wants to write a book and speak to young people locally and globally about what God has done for him. He believes God spared him for a reason and is determined to fulfil that purpose.
Akeem Forbes' story is indeed powerful and moving. His journey from a near-death experience to a message of redemption and hope is truly inspiring. Akeem's message to the youth is clear: "Put down the guns and stop the violence." He encourages young people to make better choices, surround themselves with positive influences, and take their time to grow into who they want to be.
He stresses the importance of unity among communities and suggests using opportunities to form local businesses and engage in constructive activities. I believe in Akeem, and I cannot wait to see the positive change that he will bring to our country because of his testimony. I love you Akeem; your door is open, and the stage is set; go and change lives one person at a time!
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