February is Black History Month and Goose Lane is sitting down with author Alpha Nkuranga to dive into her writing life. Nkuranga is the author of her breathtaking memoir Born to Walk: My Journey of Trials and Resilience.
At only eight years old, Alpha Nkuranga made a fateful decision: with war raging around her, she grabbed the hand of her younger brother and ran from her childhood home in Rwanda. After more than a decade of shuffling between refugee camps and navigating omnipresent violence, Nkuranga emigrated to Canada, where she now works with women and children who face abuse and homelessness. Born to Walk is her remarkable story of a life spent breaking down barriers and advocating for those in need.
1. What inspired you to turn the story of your long journey, that ultimately ended in Canada, into a book?
I have several reasons for transforming my story into a book. One experience that stands out in my mind is a time I was part of a group introduction: when it was my turn, I was unsure of how to introduce myself beyond the basics. I then shared my story, including my experiences as a first-generation graduate, a child survivor of war, a victim of physical abuse by teachers, and an immigrant to Canada. This, in essence, is who I am. The room fell silent, and my audience was visibly shaken. I didn't intend to cause sadness, but rather to share my story, and they began to offer apologies. Later, I realized that I couldn't convey my entire narrative in a single conversation. This led me to consider writing a book. I understood that a book could transcend geographical boundaries and preserve my story for posterity. I also reflected on the limitations of oral traditions, where stories are often lost due to the lack of written records. Had my grandparents been literate, their stories would have been preserved for me to read today. I wanted to ensure that my story would be preserved for future generations.
2. What was the writing process like for you?
The process of writing this book was beset by numerous challenges, largely due to my unfamiliarity with established authors or published writers who could provide guidance on the writing process or offer constructive feedback. My initial manuscript, handwritten in a notebook, was misplaced in my home, possibly discarded by my children. This loss prompted a period of introspection, during which I considered abandoning my writing aspirations. My background, characterized by writing in notebooks and limited technological expertise prior to relocating to Canada, presented additional obstacles. Nevertheless, I remained resolute, purchasing another notebook and resuming my writing. Unfortunately, my son inadvertently destroyed my work-in-progress, leading me to consider surrender. I grappled with doubts about the validity of my story and concerns about the complexities of publishing — which seemed valid points. However, after a month of reflection, I reassessed my motivations and opted to persist, leveraging technology to complete my manuscript, which ultimately became Born to Walk.
3. Has publishing your story and sharing it with others changed the way you feel about what you’ve experienced?
The publication of my story has played a significant role in my healing journey. I was initially hesitant to believe that sharing my experiences would be therapeutic, but I have since come to realize the truth in this notion. Since publishing my book, I have gained a deeper understanding of myself and shed the shame and guilt that once burdened me. Prior to this, I was worried that my story would fall on deaf ears, especially when considering the vast array of challenges that so many others face, including war and starvation. Yet, the response to my book has been remarkable, with many readers reaching out to express their admiration and support. These connections have brought me a sense of community and belonging, and I am grateful to my agent, my publishers, and all those who have helped me share my story.
4. How can readers support Black authors?
Readers can support black authors in several ways, including reading and sharing their stories, which raises awareness about the challenges they face and what support they need. Advocating for their work is also important. A reader recently shared a humorous story with me. She had been going to bookstores and placing my book at the front, often leaving only one or two copies. Her intention was not to drive sales, but to make my story, which she believed could impact many lives, more accessible. I believe that asking libraries and bookstores to prominently display black authors' books offers a valuable contribution to the authors’ work.
5. What are your future goals as an author?
My future goals as an author are to continue sharing my story and striving to connect with people through writing and public speaking about injustices, while spreading awareness and a global message of empathy and love.
Thank you, Alpha, for not only answering our questions but also for sharing your incredible story. Born to Walk is available in bookstores Canada-wide and online at gooselane.com/borntowalk.
Author photo by One for the Wall
