Bol’s journey
Bol’s journey from a South Sudanese refugee to a successful, purpose-driven Australian is a testament to the human spirit’s incredible capacity for resilience and kindness. He has transformed his own life and the lives of countless others, proving that the dream of peace and prosperity is attainable even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. Bol’s story is a living example of the power of hope, determination, and the desire to give back to a world that offered him a second chance at life, and it is his hope that his story will become an inspiration to people in Australia, South Sudan and the world.
Eighteen years ago, in the heart of South Sudan, amidst the turmoil of war and uncertainty, a young boy named Bolic Bet Malou dreamt of a world where peace and prosperity could flourish. For years, his homeland was plagued by violence, displacement, and despair. The relentless struggle for survival left deep scars on Bol’s soul, but it also ignited an unquenchable fire within him – a fire of hope.
Bol’s journey towards a better life began on a fateful day when he and his siblings decided to escape the violence and seek refuge in a foreign land. Australia, a place known for its welcoming spirit, became their beacon of hope. The road to resettlement was long and arduous, but they persevered, driven by the dream of a brighter future.
Upon arrival in Australia, Bol was filled with both hope and trepidation. Though he understood and could communicate in English, he didn’t know the customs or people. The cultural chasm was vast, but Bol embraced it as an opportunity to grow, learn, and give back. He enrolled in school and threw himself into his studies with determination. Every challenge he faced only fueled his motivation to succeed. He knew that his success would be a testament to the resilience and potential of refugees everywhere.
Bol’s journey was marked by the kindness of strangers who became lifelong friends, mentors who saw his potential, and teachers who nurtured his dreams. Slowly but surely, he began to excel in his studies, eventually gaining admission to Wollongong University and later Jmc academy for his tertiary education, where he studied Engineering. Throughout his education, Bol was also pursuing his music and fashion dreams but never lost sight of his ultimate goal: to make a positive impact on both his new homeland, the country and continent he had left behind.
As he completed his studies, Bol’s sense of purpose and his passion for music and fashion grew stronger. He felt a deep responsibility to use his newfound knowledge and skills for the betterment of his community in Australia, the people of South Sudan and Africa who still faced hardship. Going by the quote “Think big, start small” Bol founded Kushite Entertainment to help at-risk youth in his community by giving them the opportunity to realize their dreams while staying out of trouble. He built a state-of-the-art music studio with the help of family, friends and well-wishers, He also organized basketball clinics with his cousins for at-risk youth.
Bol’s love for fashion and fascination by the rich history and culture of the ancient Kushite Kingdom, which thrived in the Nile Valley of Africa thousands of years ago edged him to create a clothing line “Kushite Apparel” which captures the essence of the Kushite culture and bring it to life in his designs. Through his designs, he allows people to connect with the past and find a sense of pride and elegance in the present, all while making a positive impact on his community.
Inspired by his calling, he embarked on a mission to create a bridge between his two worlds. In Australia, Bol founded the non-profit organization “Australia-Africa Support Group” dedicated to promoting trade between Africa and Australia by nurturing, mentoring and connecting young entrepreneurs from both continents. The non-profit organization also promotes mental health, social development and well-being of young people to help them discover and develop their potential to succeed and become productive members of society and country at large.
“He understands the struggles young people face, having experienced them firsthand, he therefore wants to be a guiding light for those who feel lost and hopeless”.
Simultaneously, Bol initiated projects to address the pressing issues in South Sudan. He worked tirelessly to raise funds and awareness for clean water initiatives, education and after school programs for young people. His efforts helped bring hope to his war-torn homeland, one project at a time. Over the years he received accolades, but his most meaningful reward is seeing the lives he touched and the communities he helped uplift.