Sana: The Protector
Sana grew up in a big family as a family-oriented and responsible person, helping his mother and taking care of her in sickness. As a young adult, Sana took the responsibility of looking after his parents and sacrificed his own dreams for his brother’s success.
Two Ideologies, One Religion
Growing up in Ghana and Burkina Faso, two countries overshadowed by religious and political conflicts, Sana got involved in social activism as the benevolent person that he is. However, his activism eventually led to his and his family’s persecution.
Transitioning from Africa to Japan
While only in his mid-20s, he was at the height of his advocacy for social change within Ghana, which he was being targeted for. As the terrorism had gotten worse, his parents decided that he would flee to Japan, where he would eventually attempt to remain permanently.
Life in the Detention Center
Sana was detained by immigration until he was released during the pandemic. In the detention center, Sana experienced physical as well as psychological torture. Sana’s story will reflect how his experiences along with the help he received contributed to the person he has become today.
Released, but Not Really Free
Sana, like many other asylees, has endured the detention center and is now on temporary release from the detention center. Despite this, he is still restricted in his freedom in many ways. Nevertheless, Sana keeps hope by reminding himself that “no condition is permanent.”
