World Refugee Day: Singing Key to Happiness for Appleton Newcomer

There is likely no one as excited or as prepared for our upcoming World Refugee Day Celebration at the Castle as 25-year-old Francois who fled the DR Congo 14 years ago and recently arrived in Appleton to begin rebuilding his life.

On Saturday, June 21, Francois will perform at World Relief Wisconsin’s collaborative event taking place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. outdoors at the History Museum at the Castle, in conjunction with Make Music Day Appleton.

Francois’ face lights up with joy as he considers singing for an audience in America. His guitar is tuned and his set list is ready.

“For many years I dreamed of being in America. I thank God every day that I am here,” he said. “With World Relief, I have help with everything.”

A Note About How it Started

When Francois fled for safety, he spent years in a refugee camp in Uganda, where many of the children enjoyed playing games like soccer and basketball. What brought a big smile to Francois’ face?  Singing in church.

“In 2012, I started singing. I found I had a talent for it,” he explained. “Music is my medicine. When there is sorrow or pain, it is my way to express feelings.”

Over the long years in the camp, Francois learned how to play guitar and piano and how to compose songs. He learned music from teachers and soon was teaching other children. Eventually, he became the choir master.

Now as he is settling into life in the Fox Valley with a new job and a new home, Francois spends his spare time composing and singing music. These days he is practicing the songs he plans to perform at the upcoming World Refugee Day event—two love songs, a Wisconsin song and a freedom song.

In the fall, he hopes to begin taking college classes in music production and music business.

Join the Celebration

The greater Fox Valley community is invited to hear Francois sing at the June 21 celebration. The event also will include dance demonstrations and cultural activities. Participants will learn about World Relief Wisconsin’s mission and how they can help families displaced by violence, poverty and injustice with their prayers, advocacy, volunteer service and financial support. Let us know you plan to attend.

Make Music Day Appleton is an annual event celebrated worldwide as part of the Fête de la Musique. The Fête de la Musique is a festival that takes place in over 1,000 cities in more than 120 countries on the summer solstice, which falls on June 21 each year. This day is set aside to celebrate music in all its diverse forms and encourages people to come together and play free public concerts.

Those who would like to learn more about the refugee experience are invited to explore the Our Afghan Neighbors exhibit inside the History Museum at the Castle. Admission fees required.