I am proud of my family’s part in the ‘melting pot’ of Seychelles history, says former Tourism Minister
Former Tourism Minister Alain St.Ange is getting ready to release his autobiography and says it will celebrate his family’s part in the “melting pot” culture of Seychelles.
St.Ange said his family were always aware that they had at least one heritage line descended from a slave and while carrying out research for his book he found more.
Six generations ago, he said, he had ancestors who were freed from slavery and at least one had to take the name of those who freed her.
He explained: “The macabre chapter of Seychelles history and world history cannot be undone. The more I dug into the lives of my ancestors, the more I realised how hard their lives were. I am humbled to be one of their descendants.
“Today, I’ve realised that the tagline ‘Melting Pot of Cultures’ behind the Seychelles Carnaval International de Victoria reflects perfectly with my own family’s unique melting pot.”
The book – his 10th – is called My Journey.
It documents St.Ange’s life from early years, his education, time in politics and at the Ministry of Tourism. It includes photographs, details on major events and extracts from the recent sessions of the Truth, Reconciliation and National Unity Commission.
He said: “My autobiography chronicles my life from the La Digue Island boy, who was brought up to become a loving father and grandfather, and who rose through the ranks with hard work, tenacity, and an un-wavering passion for Seychelles.
“This one is a personal story, not only about a life that I’ve been proud to live, but about my family that helped shaped me into the man I became.”
He added: “While a lot of emphasis has gone into the historical documentation to ensure that those who came before us are properly acknowledged, this book also documents a more personal journey with the stories behind the events.
“I’ve included details around relationship breakdowns caused by politics, challenges and hardships faced by those before us, and the ability of our parents and grandparents to work the soil and create a solid foundation for the family.”
Further details on the book will be released later.
