The road to the future is sometimes bumpy
"I go back to his advice - to love, to help everyone, to work hard and love school. My target is to do what he told me and trust that I can change my life."
Innocent has a mega-watt smile and a personality to match. But the thing that matters most is the philosophy he lives by: the belief that he can change his life.
Early Years
Born in the Congo and separated from his family at six by war, Innocent was taken in by his father's best friend, Patrique, his "second father." They searched for a way to reunite his family.
When Innocent was 11, they finally located his mother living in Rwanda. Unknown to him, his father had been killed. Patrique took Innocent across the border to join his mom. Tragically, his second dad was also killed as he tried to return to Congo.
Home in Houston & High School
Since Innocent arrived in Houston nearly three years ago, he has been following Patrique's advice. He completed the credits to graduate from Westbury High School, but he couldn't catch up enough to pass the TAKS (state exam). Undaunted, he obtained an alternative diploma and enrolled in HCC in pursuit of his dream to become a pharmacist.
Next Steps
But before Innocent can start pharmacy classes, the school requires him to improve his English. Unfortunately, HCC's ESL class has a very long wait list.
Despite his disappointment, Innocent hasn't given up! He is determined to find another ESL program so that he doesn't lose time in his studies and can start HCC classes next semester. In the meantime, he is working and helping translate for Congolese newcomers.
Innocent's will is strong. His belief that he can change his life and his commitment to education will help him achieve his goals.