By Jonah Tangman
For over a decade, a group of South Sudanese refugees known as the “Lost Boys” have been visiting our school, sharing their powerful stories of survival, resilience, and hope. Their journey spanning more than 1,000 miles on foot—began in the early 1990s during the brutal civil war in Sudan, and it has left a lasting impact not only on their lives but also on the students and staff who hear their stories.
One of the most moving parts of their journey involves how they received their names. In Sudan, unlike in many Western cultures, children aren't named at birth. Instead, names are given later, often as a surprise to the parents and deeply rooted in cultural meaning. For example, Maketh’s name means "white bull," a symbol of strength and value in South Sudanese culture. Another, Magai, was named for "sunrise," a name filled with hope and new beginnings.
Peter, one of the men who shared his story, explained that he chose his Christian name when he decided to attend church in 1991. In order to be baptized, he needed a Christian name—so he picked "Peter," marking the beginning of his spiritual journey.
Maketh shared that his mother had ten children, and though she thought she was finished, he was born afterward—an unexpected addition. In keeping with tradition, one of the children had to be named after their grandparents, honoring family legacy even amid the chaos of war.
Despite the hardships of their past, the Lost Boys have found a sense of belonging and admiration for life in America. One of their favorite things about living here is the freedom people enjoy and the strong work ethic they see around them. When it comes to food, pizza is a favorite snack, though they still love traditional Sudanese dishes. One such dish involves processed wheat flour, formed into a dough-like consistency and dipped into a rich stew—though the exact name of the dish remains a mystery.
Their visits have become a valued tradition at our school, reminding us each year of the power of perseverance, culture, and community. The stories of the Lost Boys continue to educate and inspire, teaching lessons that go far beyond the classroom.
