Kon Kelei: Nightmares after the first day of filming
Former child soldier Kon Kelei plays the role of an aid worker in the movie ‘The Silent Army’. Taking part in this production confronted him with his past. At the age of four, Kon was kidnapped by rebels. It was only years later that he managed to escape.
A special experience
“It was very special to take part in the movie - particularly because the people playing refugees had been refugees in real life as well. The same counts for the people playing child soldiers. Just like Sam Okello who plays the father of Abu and me.”
Nightmares after the first day of filming
“I especially remember my first day of filming. I had to wear short trousers. For most people that is not a problem. However, I never wear short trousers because my legs are covered with scars as a result from what I experienced in my childhood. Everybody could see the scars. I must admit, I found it quite a painful experience. It is not a problem for me to tell about the things I experienced as a child, but it pains me to reveal the scars that it left. After the first filming day, I had nightmares as I slept.”
Doing all he can
“Still, I want to offer a small piece of my life experiences. I hope by doing that, I will be able to shed some light on the life of children living in the bush. I really want the horror to stop; I really want children to be free from fighting. I don’t know how I can ultimately reach this goal, but I will do everything I can.”
Giving something back
Kon currently studies International Law and European Right Issues at the University of Nijmegen in the Netherlands and works as an information officer for War Child Holland since 2003. Together with five other young people from war affected countries he founded a network to help other children. After finishing his studies he wants to return to Sudan to support children affected by war in his country. Kon is a founder and active member and founder of NYPAW (Network of Young People Affected by War).
Read more about NYPAW.
Learn about actor Sam Okello's experiences on the set.
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