My journey with the French language began at Delhi University, where I pursued my Honours degree in French with immense passion and curiosity. I had always envisioned a life where language wasn’t just studied, but lived—used as a bridge to cultures, people, and untold stories. Serendipitously, I found myself working for an organisation deeply engaged in diverse business ventures across the African continent, where French is a vibrant thread in the cultural fabric of many nations.
From the very beginning, my work brought me close to the soul of Africa. I still remember the first time I found myself translating during an interview with the Honourable Minister of Agriculture from Benin. It was at an international summit in Delhi, and I was both nervous and exhilarated. As the Minister spoke passionately about sustainable farming practices, I realised how language could transform into a living conduit for diplomacy, trade, and mutual respect. That day was more than just a professional milestone; it was the first spark of my enduring affection for Africa.
In 2014, fate offered me a golden opportunity: an official trip to Cameroon, where French is one of the official languages. As my flight descended over Douala, I had little idea that the experience would become one of the most cherished chapters of my life. What awaited me was not just a work assignment, but a profound cultural immersion.
The Cameroonian warmth and hospitality overwhelmed me. From government officials to our local business partners, everyone I met greeted me with a generosity of spirit that transcended language. Despite the unfamiliar terrain, they made me feel immediately at home. Their support, kindness, and enthusiasm left an indelible mark on me. My days were filled with business meetings and site visits, but the real memories were made in the casual conversations, shared meals, and the sparkle in their eyes when I spoke in French.
I also had the pleasure of connecting with the Indian diaspora in Cameroon—resilient and rooted, yet wonderfully blended into the local fabric. Many of them had been there for decades, running successful supermarkets and small enterprises. I remember strolling through one such Indian-run market, absorbing the mix of aromas, colours, and chatter—Hindi and French mingling effortlessly in the air. And to my great delight, I discovered the most delicious golgappas I have ever had—right there, in the heart of West Africa.
One of my most treasured memories remains the day our local partner gifted me a stunning set of handmade earrings and a necklace as a token of appreciation. Those beautiful pieces are more than jewellery—they are reminders of shared laughter, heartfelt conversations, and the silent bonds we forge when cultures connect. Alongside the trinkets, I brought home something intangible but infinitely precious: a handful of love, genuine goodwill, and the echoes of “Bienvenue” that continue to resonate in my heart.
Africa is often spoken of in business terms—as a land of opportunities, resources, and new markets. But for me, it is much more. It is a continent of soul, of poetry, of resilience. Through language, I found not just professional fulfilment but emotional enrichment and lifelong friendships. My experiences in Africa have reaffirmed my belief that language is not just a tool; it’s a passport to understanding, empathy, and shared humanity.
Even today, whenever I wear those gifted earrings, I feel a tug of nostalgia—a reminder that somewhere, thousands of miles away, I discovered not only the power of communication but also the warmth of an entire continent.
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