Meet Pastor Rabie

Introduction

My name is Rabie Titus Shilakoe known as (Pastor Rabie) from Jane Furse (South Africa). I am a last born of six siblings, the only person with albinism in the family which is amazing as I am a gift from God.  I am passionate about Christianity, I love God and I live my life for Him.  

I went to Siloe School, close to Polokwane for primary school.  Thandi and I met there as class mates.

Fatherhood

I have a 9 year old daughter.  She does not have albinism.  I raised her from the toddler stage which began with clinic visits as her mom and I are separated.  

At about 5 years she was very curious about how daddy looked like but she enjoyed it as she would brag to her friends that her dad is white and he is also a Pastor.  Lately she calls me Moruti (Pastor).  

We have a beautiful father and daughter relationship.  Whenever I call her before we hang up she came up with the rule that her younger sister should hear my voice so that she can also feel and experience the love she receives from daddy.

Life's Challenges

Family:  Growing up being the only person with albinism gave me too much attention and a lot of supervision from my family.  My daily questions or instructions were: "Did you put on your sunscreen?  Where is Rabie?  Don't forget your hat".  My every movevwas watched at close range.  Yes I was young but this irritated me a lot.

Family gatherings:  Extended family members did not know how to associate with me,  I struggled to fit in.  It always felt like I have to explain myself about my condition all the time.  This has put a lot of strain on my emotions because people are supposed to be understanding family members.   

Polygamy family set up:  My father had two wives, my mom was the younger wife.  I did not understand polygamy dynamics.  At some point I stayed with my dad and the first wife's family.  I felt excluded in that family.  They gave me a room outside while all the children had their bedrooms inside the main house. They would always pass sarcastic remarks which made it clear that I am not welcome in their family.  I only felt safe when my father was around.  

Integrating into the community:  I grew up in boarding school and the community was not familiar with me as they would only see me during school holidays.  People would always call me names but I would always laugh it off or disagree with what they called me as my mom gave me guidance on how to handle these encounters.  I found ways to diffuse the insults. I always participated in community activities like soccer, parties and other events.  Eventually they warmed up to me.  

My Victory Moments

We all know that people with albinism are looked down on.  This made me take good care of my skin and physical appearance. With time I have also learned to build my confidence.  I always speak life and believe in everything I want to achieve. Adding to that I give my best and have no room for self doubt.  

The wisdom and strategic approach I have learned, have opened great doors for me as follows:

Ministry:  Besides being a Pastor at my home, I also receive invitations to preach at different churches.  Even in our neighboring African countries.  I have preached in church gatherings with more than 500 people.

Mining Industry:  My company is contracted to service few mines.

Property Investments:  I have observed my property portfolio growth.  

Closing Thoughts 

I would like to encourage everyone with albinism to challenge themselves to do great things in their lives as we are changing the narrative and moving away from the old mindset and myths.  After all God has created us to fulfil a purpose on earth.

Please take care of your skin as albinism is beautiful.

Gratitude Note 

Thank you so much for taking your time to read. I cannot wait to share further exciting experiences with you.  Please kindly share this post with as many people as you can as it will help me reach out to the world.

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