Built for Africa with Michael Stewart (part 1/2)

Michal’s childhood was filled with outdoor adventure and freedom in Rhodesia, growing up on a hobby farm, fishing and riding, but also navigating a complex relationship with his Scottish father’s temper.

Being sent to boarding school at a young age shaped Michael’s sense of independence and self-reliance but also led to feelings of abandonment and questions about his own self-worth over many years.

He recalls a safe, respectful community where race was not a dividing factor in his friendships, but witnessed the country’s shift to war, deeply affecting everyone and bringing trauma and loss.

Taking on a leadership role at just 18 in a support unit, Michael shares both responsibility and connection with his troops, facing fear, violence, and witnessing the stark realities of guerrilla warfare.

Exposure to war atrocities led Michael to develop coping strategies and seek adrenaline activities afterwards. His faith and belief in God became a source of strength for healing and perspective.

He moved first to South Africa, navigating strict apartheid-era laws, and later emigrated to Australia.

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We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Kintsugi Heroes.

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Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

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Theme Song: "Broken" by Colin Lillie