Hey everyone, my name is Béni Badibanga, and for Black History Month I wanted to take the time to share my story. It’s been a crazy ride, filled with a vast amount of life experience and a whole lot of blessings.
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I was born in Congo, but life had plans to take me all over the world. England, France, and Belgium became pitstops on my journey, and then soccer took me even further – Belgium, Morocco, and now Canada. My family is spread out all over – in France, Holland, Belgium, Congo, Canada, and England. They’ve been my rock, my inspiration, the driving force behind me pursuing my dreams.
My family are the ones that introduced me to the beautiful game. Once I got started I couldn’t stop. I didn’t start playing soccer because I had some grand plan. I started because my big brothers said I was good, and people around me kept saying the same. I had no clue what I was doing, but I kept going, and here I am. My big cousin, he’s the reason I fell in love with soccer. He played before me and his love for the game rubbed off on me. I know there are tons of great players out there, but my family has always been my inspiration. They paved the way, and I’ve looked up to them since I was a kid.
The love my family instilled in me for the game pushed me to pursue my dreams and create a career for myself doing what I love. Because of this I have had great moments in my career and have also gained wonderful life experiences. Yeah, I’ve had some wins on the field, but my biggest achievement? Standing on my own two feet. Facing difficulties, winning some battles, and still staying true to who I am. Winning that title last year was sweet, but the real victory is experiencing different cultures, seeing how people live in other countries. Soccer has given me that.
That being said, it is not like it was a walk in the park to get to where I am today. In life, everyone faces obstacles and it is how we deal with those obstacles that open opportunities for yourself. Challenges, they fuel me. When people tell me I can’t do something, that’s my cue to prove them wrong. It’s a mindset I inherited from my family – never back down.
You know, people are surprised by me. They see me on the field, my style, the way I play, and they might think I’m arrogant. But I’m polite, I don’t talk much on the pitch, and I approach everyone with the same level as respect. If you don’t talk to me, you might also think I’m arrogant, but that’s not who I am.
I am Beni Badibanga. My name, Beni, means blessed in French. I feel blessed because no matter where I am or what difficulty I face, God helps me find a way. That’s my anchor.
Black History Month means a lot to me. I’m proud to be black. But you know, it’s not just about black or white; it’s about believing in yourself, being kind to each other. That’s what matters.
To my younger self – pray and be yourself. That’s the advice I’d give. It’s what’s gotten me through.
So, that’s a bit of my story. A journey of blessings, challenges, and embracing black excellence. Wherever you are, whatever you do, believe in yourself, be nice to each other, and everything will be good.
Love,
#39
Béni Badibanga