Guest Speaker Charles Opio Inspires Students to Be the Light at Brooklyn City Schools
Songwriter and speaker from Uganda delivered an inspiring message to school community.
Brookl
yn Auditorium was filled with energy, excitement, and positivity during a series of student assemblies led by Mr. Charles Opio, a songwriter and speaker from Uganda on Thursday, January 30, 2025. Known as “Uncle Charlie” in his native country, Mr. Opio incorporated song, dance, humor, and heartfelt stories to deliver an inspirational message to students during Hurricane Heritage Week. Throughout the program, students and staff joined Mr. Opio in dancing to energetic music both onstage and in their seats. Brooklyn students also enjoyed a fun game of identifying animals that are native to Africa and learning how to say uplifting words and phrases in one of the many tribal languages of Uganda, such as “amari” which means “I love you.”
Mr. Opio also delivered an inspirational message encouraging students to “be the light” in their school, homes, and community. This included the importance of smiling to express kindness, laughter to bring joy, and being a shining example through their words and actions. Mr. Opio shared the story of his friend Francis as an example of how to be the light in spite of difficult life circumstances. After becoming disabled at an early age due to polio, Francis felt alone and discouraged, unable to afford access to a wheelchair.
Through the encouragement and support of a good friend, Francis pursued his school studies, graduating at the top of both his high school and college graduating classes. After obtaining a job, Francis began an organization dedicated to improving wheelchair access to individuals in need throughout Africa. To date, the organization has donated 27,000 wheelchairs! Mr. Opio concluded by telling students that they are special and have bright futures ahead of them, before singing his hit song, “Be the Light,” accompanied by Brooklyn students and staff.
On behalf of the Brooklyn City Schools, thank you to Charles Opio for delivering an encouraging and uplifting message of hope and purpose to our school community.