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Singer's story inspires pupils

nlnews@archant.co.uk
26 November 2009
PUPILS were treated to a special gig from hip hop star and former AK47-carrying child soldier Emmanuel Jal.

Jal visited Acland Burghley School, in Burghley Road, Tufnell Park, to tell his inspiring story and perform a unique concert.

At the age of seven Jal was using the rifle, which was taller than him, to fight-off enemies in the civil war of his home country Sudan.

At 13, Jal was smuggled into Nairobi where music helped him cope with his experiences.

He said: "I believe I survived to tell my story to touch lives. If I can touch a child's heart then they will carry it forever with passion.

"Music is like a painkiller that soothes everything away. I want to fight for the freedom of my people through the music."

He has won acclaim for his hip hop with its message of peace and reconciliation.

"They are the future leaders. They could be the next big business person or prime minister. I bring my story to them because once they get into power they will know the truth and make the world a better place."

In 2005 Jal released his first album, Gua - which means peace in his native Nuer tongue.

His latest album, Warchild, was released last year to high acclaim.

Lucy Still, the school's head of religious education, who organised the visit, said: "We are very lucky that he came to talk to us. It was a fantastic experience for the kids. It is great for them to hear from a positive black role model who is truly inspiring.

 
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