Erigene Bakangura

When I was about 10 years old, I met an incredible kid who became my friend. He was deaf, but that never stopped us from spending time together, playing, laughing, and building memories in our own way.

Even though he could not hear, I could feel his emotions clearly. I still remember how he tried to speak, often with a loud voice, trying so hard to connect with us. As a child, I wished deeply that he could hear us, speak with us easily, and share those moments fully.

Today, I live thousands of kilometres away. I lost contact with him many years ago, but I still think about him and miss him deeply. I believe he misses me too. Sometimes I imagine how different things could be if he could hear. I could call him, hear his voice, share our childhood memories, and tell him how much his friendship meant to me.

That is why this ride matters to me. Hearing is not only about sound. It is about connection, friendship, dignity, and the ability to share life’s moments with the people we care about.

I am riding for my childhood friend, and for every child and adult who deserves the chance to hear, communicate, and be fully connected with the world around them.

Please consider supporting my Rotary Ride for Hearing fundraising page. Every contribution helps make a difference.