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Hello
My name is Darren Benicet Konan, I am 16 years old, a current junior at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy and the founder and executive director of the Afro Dream Project, a nonprofit organization approved by the Illinois State Law.
My Story
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I was born and raised in Côte d’Ivoire, West Africa, where education is both a privilege and a challenge for so many kids like me. Until 6th grade, I attended Morning Glory International School, surrounded by friends who shared my passion for learning. I had big dreams, and I saw that same drive in my classmates—kids who were just as talented, just as ambitious, but held back by the limitations of our circumstances. That summer, my family’s life took a sudden turn. My parents were offered an opportunity to move to the United States, a decision that would mean leaving our lives behind to secure a brighter future. It wasn’t easy, especially for my siblings, who struggled to adapt to a new culture and language. I was lucky to have already spoken English, which made the transition to Sycamore Middle School and then Sycamore High School a little easier. After freshman year, I was accepted into the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA), something I owe to my parents’ sacrifices and, in many ways, to God’s plan for me.
Moving to the United States was a gift, but I never forgot the friends and classmates I left behind—brilliant young minds who didn’t have the resources or opportunities to follow their dreams. I often thought, Why was I given this chance when so many others, just as deserving, were not? Where I am today is because my family had the means to take a risk and chase a new life. But there are countless kids back home with the same potential who don’t get to pursue their dreams simply because of financial barriers. That’s never sat right with me.
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That question, that feeling, was the beginning of Afro Dream Project. I wanted to create something for the kids in Africa who are just as smart, just as driven, and just as full of dreams as anyone here. I wanted to help bridge the gap that divides dreams and reality for so many African students. Being in the United States, I often hear people talk about the “American Dream.” But I’ve realized that dreams don’t have to be defined by borders. Why should the dream of success, opportunity, and achievement be something only accessible to a few? Why shouldn’t a child in Côte d’Ivoire have the same chance to dream big?
Through Afro Dream Project, I hope to give these kids, whom I call “Afro Dreamers,” the chance to realize their own version of success, whether that’s in Africa, America, or anywhere else. My mission for Afro Dream Project is simple: “Empowering Dreams, One Child at a Time.” I want these children to have access to resources, mentorship, and educational opportunities, allowing them to explore their passions and turn their dreams into reality. This organization is my way of making sure that my story isn’t unique—that every child, regardless of where they’re from or their financial situation, can chase their dreams.
In creating Afro Dream Project, I want to give others what I was given—a chance to believe in themselves and in a future that isn’t bound by limitations. By empowering young African students, I believe we can make an impact that extends beyond one child, one family, and even one generation. This is my vision, and this is why Afro Dream Project exists.