Born to Dream: An Odyssey from Rwanda to China and the United States.
From his childhood in Rwanda to China and the United States, Phocas Irihamye's life has been one long and dynamic journey. It has been a journey predicated upon adversity and triumph, but above all, grounded in the power of dreams!
The idea of dreams and achievements manifested themselves in Phocas's early life. They carried him through a rigorous Lasallian Brothers curriculum, studying electrical engineering in China, to graduate studies and an MBA in the United States.
Phocas's dreams continued to carry him higher and higher as he entered the career world. This rise included holding a plethora of positions at Lexington, KY based Lexmark Inc, and ultimately the directorship of program management for Microsoft devices.
In addition, while Phocas rose up the career ladder, he also started a family, nurturing and encouraging his four children to achieve and dream. They embodied this dream in a variety of ways, including pursuing residency at the University of Illinois-Chicago and becoming a Rhodes scholar.
This is Phocas's story. But it's also a way of giving to the world. It's a guide for those working in international settings or in the business world. For those who seek synergy and connection. For parents wanting to raise children to attain their fullest potential. For students. It's a guide for anyone who wants to dream and achieve!
Review Quotes
"The reading takes us on a remarkable journey of exploration, learning, and growth as he follows his dream. The book is more than just a memoir, it is a testament to the power of curiosity and perseverance."
Marcio Contrigiani, Vice President, Microsoft Windows & Devices.
"Through his remarkable journey, Phocas reminds us all to embrace our passion for life and learning - a truly inspirational book."
Terry King, General Manager, Microsoft Windows & Devices.
Phocas, thank you for consulting with me on this project. God, Family and Education is your amazing and transformative message. Your knowledge, experiences and accomplishments are mind blowing. Also, what a legacy that you have built for your children in a single generation. I know that so many people that feel small and unseen today, will see how unlimited their possibilities are through your story. It amazes me the prioritization and path of your education coming out of Rwanda vs. the limited opportunities, bureaucracy, and under-educating of African Americans. You model that no matter the starting point, the world is yours, but only if you do not let your circumstance of birth or challenges define you. Your message tells us that we are all Born to Dream!
Dwight D. Jones Sr.-Principal Product Manager / Blacks at Microsoft Chairperson - Microsoft Corporation / Author: "A Black Journey in Tech"
