What an honor! Well done and congratulations Bengyella Gwanmesia and Barbara Gwanmesia
If there is one #fullcircle moment for a British-born, Cameroon-blooded, Rotterdammer like myself, it must be this: meeting Mayor Aboutaleb of my city of #Rotterdam. And doing so on his last official work trip in Rotterdam, before formally leaving office. Those who know me, know that every where I go, I make sure to represent my city, my hometown, the place I was bred as an #African in the #diaspora. And now, after all these years, to receive the honor and opportunity to sit down with the 'head' of my city (who is an African himself), and discuss how Batazia is building Translation AI for Africa that will enable people in and beyond the continent to easily navigate through Africa's enormous language diversity - it's just too special. Also hearing about the key areas of change that are closest to his heart during his 15 year tenure as mayor of Rotterdam just made me warm up to him more. He shared how Rotterdam has elevated in value, education quality, a reduction of homelessness and has become an example of social peace. A city where different cultures, beliefs, and colors can work together in the government #diversity. Hearing this, I can't but help to appreciate him and this beautiful city that he has represented, even more. A big thanks to CIC Rotterdam, and specifically Joyce Kornet-Vreugdenhil for setting this up. It got us reminiscing about where we've come from as locker-neighbours back in secondary school at Emmauscollege. And now being grown, discussing business and our city with the Mayor and his cohort. Emmaus, can you see us now?! I thank God for the doors He has opened, enabled me to walk through, and the tables He has privileged me to sit at, so far through Batazia. I'm greatful, and I think my face on that picture clearly shows it. Menn... I love my city and I respect my fellow African #Mayor of Rotterdam for running it so wonderfully all these years. #Godisgreat Gemeente Rotterdam Jermaine Ernst Larissa V.