My Second Sunday in Atlanta: A Journey of Inspiration and Learning

My second Sunday in Atlanta was filled with faith, history, and inspiring conversations. Read about my experience and the amazing people making a difference!

Today marked another enriching chapter in my stay in the United States. My second Sunday in Atlanta was filled with meaningful encounters, deep conversations, and a renewed sense of purpose as I continued documenting the impactful work being done within the community.

The day began with a visit to Victory International Christian Church, located in Mableton, Georgia, a suburb of Atlanta. It was a warm and welcoming experience as I was introduced to the congregation—a vibrant and inspiring group of people dedicated to both spiritual growth and community empowerment. Led by Pastor Kore Akindele , the church has taken on a crucial role in equipping individuals with the skills and resources necessary to elevate their lives.

During the service, I had the opportunity to witness firsthand how this large church community is making a tangible difference. After the service, I continued my documentary work, capturing interviews with members of all ages—young and old—who are actively involved in charitable initiatives.

From providing food assistance to offering skills training and empowerment programs, the church’s outreach extends beyond its local community to impact lives globally. It was particularly inspiring to hear from the younger generation about how the church has shaped their perspectives and encouraged them to give back.

Following my time at the church, Pastor Korede invited me to his home for lunch, where we shared insightful discussions before embarking on a journey into the heart of Atlanta. Our destination was the home of Dr. Babs Onabanjo , a highly respected academic and community leader. Professor Onabanjo, who has been a lecturer in the United States for nearly 40 years, is a man of great humility and wisdom. As the CEO of the AD King Foundation, his work focuses on community engagement, particularly within black communities, preserving history, and advocating for civil rights.

One of the key highlights of our discussion was the importance of Affirmative Action and how it played a crucial role in the advancement of black people in the United States. Professor Onabanjo spoke about how this policy helped open doors for black professionals, particularly Nigerians, who now hold prominent positions across various fields in the U.S. He recalled a time when, as a young academic, he struggled to secure teaching positions. Before Affirmative Action, whenever he applied for jobs as a lecturer, he was often deemed either overqualified or underqualified, a reality he attributed to racial discrimination. However, with the implementation of Affirmative Action, he was finally able to secure a position as a lecturer in the United States.

He emphasized how, unlike during his early years, there are now many professors of Nigerian origin who have benefited from Affirmative Action, further solidifying their presence in academia and other influential sectors. He also stressed the importance of black people being actively involved in politics and taking control of their own destiny, ensuring that the progress made over the years continues for future generations.

Spending nearly three hours at his home alongside Pastor Korede, I had the privilege of watching some of the documentaries Professor Onabanjo has produced over the years. His work is a testament to the power of storytelling and historical preservation, and I felt honored to be in his presence. Meeting his wife and engaging in thought-provoking discussions further reinforced my appreciation for the sacrifices and efforts made by individuals like him to uplift black and ethnic minority communities.

Another major topic of discussion was the upcoming Selma march on March 8th and 9th, 2025, in Selma, Alabama, a historic site of the civil rights movement. Professor Onabanjo has been actively involved in organizing these marches, ensuring that the legacy of those who fought for civil rights is never forgotten. His dedication to educating people about black history left a profound impression on me.

Reflecting on the day, I feel deeply inspired and grateful for the opportunity to be here, learning firsthand about histories that I had only encountered through television and books. Being able to engage directly with the people who are shaping these narratives has been nothing short of transformative.

As I continue my journey in the United States, I am excited about the future and the role I can play in documenting these incredible stories. I remain committed to contributing my part, no matter how small, in amplifying the voices of those who are making a difference.