Two months ago we met Sabato and heard her laugh for the first time. Every week in the studio, we learn more about her dreams for her children in the U.S as she brings smiles to our faces big enough to be seen through our masks. We're so happy she's here!
Sabato was born in a small town in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and lived there with her family until she the age of seven. In 2002, she escaped war-torn DRC with her grandmother, who brought her to the Burundian refugee camp that became her home for the next 16 years.
Having relocated to the United States through a refugee resettlement program, Sabato joined Prosperity Candle in September 2020 to provide for her family. She says she appreciates how safe she feels in her new town of Northampton, Massachusetts, and her dream is to see her children grow up to be helpful and speak English well.
For Sabato, every candle she labels and gift wraps in our studio represents new opportunities for her and her children. Here is a glimpse into her life.
1. Sabato, can you tell us a little about your family?
I live with my 3 children and my cousin. My children are two boys, 10 and 7 years old, and a daughter who is 4 years old. We lived where we are now for several months and before that we were in Texas.
2. What do you like the most about living in the United States?
It is safe to live in the USA. I like Northampton because I have a good house.
3. What is it like making candles at Prosperity Candle?
Working at Prosperity Candle, I like the teamwork. Before I worked at the Hampton Inn hotel in Hadley.
4. What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?
When I’m not at work, I clean my house, cook, and spend time with my children.
5. Can you describe your favorite dish you like to cook?
I like to make rice, beans, fufu, and fish.
6. Do you have a favorite American food you've tried?
I like the food here. They make good rice, beans and chicken. I like pizza, hamburgers, and chicken.
7. Is there anything about living here in the United States that surprised you?
I was most surprised by the cold and the snow. But American and African cultures are so different from each other, like the clothes. And here you take a bus to school, but in Africa you walk.
8. Are there any favorite movies or shows that you like to watch?
I like to watch African action movies. My kids watch cartoons.
9. Do you have a favorite type of music you listen to?
My favorite music is Congolese music that I listen to at nighttime.
10. Do you have any dreams or hopes?
I want my kids to grow up to help me. I also want them to speak good English.
If you enjoyed hearing Sabato's story send her a message welcoming her or share her story with a friend. Who knows... maybe you also love African action films!
