IBRAHIM KONTEH (IB)

It is never easy parenting while thousands of miles away, but Ibrahim is far from the average father. With FaceTime and Skype on his side, his bright smile isn’t missed by Zion and Sierra. Like with anything in his life, IB found a way to make it work! Balancing his time between the two countries may not be easy for some, but the sacrifice I have witnessed is tremendous.

IB moved away from the comfort and support of his mom in Washington, DC, to Florida to be a cheaper plane ticket away from his kids. This is millennial parenting at its best! Other than the sacrifices he has made, I admire the instilling of the importance of their ancestry (although they are too young to notice now). Their names by themselves have such strong roots which derive from their Sierra Leone lineage. They were both blessed in true Sierra Leonian ceremonies as well as christenings.

IB’s love for Zion and Sierra, I believe, is best expressed through his weakness for them. They have strengthened his character in so many ways. I see it when he tries to discipline Zion with such a soft undertone as if he really can’t be too hard on him; and with Sierra, she literally melts his heart every time she smiles. They have been a blessing in his life and all of our lives. Watching him grow as a father has been an honour, and I look forward to helping him raise them. As my friend says, “It takes a village to raise a child”. Happy Father’s Day to an amazing friend who I am proud to call one of my closest friends. – Gabrielle