Yesterday, I sang my country’s national anthem with tears in my eyes. Yesterday, I received an honorary distinction from my country, in recognition of my time, my perseverance, my passion, and the life I have devoted to serving my nation. Yesterday, I was awarded the medal of Knight of the National Order of the Lion. I wish this honor upon every ordinary citizen like myself. In my group, across different ranks (Commanders and Officers), stood all the people I love and admire. At my rank, there was Angèle Diabang — a filmmaker like me. In the audience were my five daughters (three of my body and two of my heart): Oumy, Safi, Mossane, Mame Fatou, and Ndeye Maguette. My beloved was there. My little sister, INA — a photographer for eternity — was there. Connected through the phone were Betty, Fodé, and Oumar, my brothers and sisters. And at our family home were my father, Saloum, and my mother, Marie. I already share a precious memory with them — when my father received his medal in the same category, at a higher rank.
My gratitude extends to my friends across the world. My gratitude also goes to my special mentors, who know that they are the ones who shaped my depth and strength. The brother I wished could have been present in that room could not be there, but he knows what he represents to me.