Thriving Through Trials

Inspiring Resilience and Building Hope

Pushbacks: The Unexpected Key to Takeoff

As I sit here at Vienna Airport, marvelling at the graceful dance of planes taking off and landing, a profound parallel captivates my thoughts. These majestic machines of the sky require a seemingly counterintuitive pushback – a moment of repositioning before they can soar. It’s a poignant reminder that even the most powerful journeys often begin with a subtle adjustment, a nudge in a different direction.

This observation resonates deeply because, like those airplanes, we too encounter setbacks in our lives that feel like a setback from our goals. These obstacles can be daunting, testing our resolve and challenging our aspirations. But what if we reframed these setbacks not as obstacles, but as necessary adjustments for a powerful take-off?

Just as an airplane needs a pushback to align with the runway and prepare for flight, so too do we need moments of recalibration to align with our true trajectory. These setbacks, while initially daunting, can serve as catalysts for growth and transformation. They force us to reassess our path, refine our strategies and cultivate resilience in the face of adversity.

It’s important to recognise that setbacks are not signals of failure, but rather opportunities for refinement and growth. Just as the airplane is ‘pushed’ by a smaller, slower and seemingly insignificant vehicle – a tug – we too may need a gentle nudge from others to reach our destination. This help may come from unexpected sources, reminding us to remain open to guidance and support, whatever its source.

Embrace the pushback, learn from the setbacks and allow yourself to be guided towards your dreams. Your breakthrough awaits, ready to unfold as you navigate the journey with resilience, determination and an open heart.

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Innocent Magambi

I was born a refugee in the Democratic Republic of Congo to Burundian parents, my first 27 years were spent navigating the challenges of five different refugee camps, forging an indomitable spirit and deep empathy. The pivotal moment came when the opportunity for a university education presented itself, leading me to found There is Hope. For 15 years, I led this non-profit organisation with a visionary approach to impact thousands of people through education, vocational training and job creation. As a refugee rights advocate and CEO of Inua Advocacy, a human rights organisation fighting for the dignity of refugees in Malawi, my commitment is both professional and deeply personal. My book, Refugee For Life, not only recounts my personal journey as a refugee, but also highlights the transformative power of individual action for entire communities. From surviving as a refugee to shaping the destinies of others, I stand as a beacon of empathy and adaptability. I have been privileged to be interviewed by respected outlets such as Voice of America, BBC World Service and The Guardian. Beyond the media, I share my insights in a variety of forums, including churches, charities, schools and prestigious institutions such as Oxford University. As an Obama Fellow and participant in respected fellowships, my life’s journey reflects the profound impact one person, driven by a compassionate vision, can have on the lives of many.

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