Dreams Built from Cardboard: Congolese Teen’s Journey to Becoming an Architect
In a world where dreams often defy the odds, a 15-year-old boy from Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of Congo, has captured hearts and earned a scholarship for his remarkable talent in building miniature football stadium replicas using cardboard. Meet Jorkiam Samba Mampuya, affectionately known as Djodjo, a teenager with aspirations of becoming one of the world’s most renowned architects.
Djodjo’s journey began when an image of him holding a cardboard model of a stadium started circulating on social networks and football news sites in 2020. His story is one of ambition, creativity, and unwavering determination.
Hailing from a country facing numerous challenges and ranked low on the Human Development Index, Djodjo has managed to captivate audiences worldwide with his remarkable craftsmanship. Using simple materials like cardboard, magazine paper, glue, and paint, he has brought iconic stadiums to life, paying meticulous attention to detail.
From the Santiago Bernabéu to Camp Nou, and even the Tata Raphael Stadium in Kinshasa, Djodjo’s work has displayed an impressive range of architectural skill. What’s even more astonishing is that he admitted not being a football enthusiast but found his passion in recreating the structures related to the sport.
The project that thrust Djodjo into the spotlight was his miniature model of the Martyrs Stadium in the Congolese capital. He started with smaller stadiums and gradually expanded his scope, all while honing his technique.
Djodjo is the eldest brother in a family of five siblings and has devoted a significant portion of his time to perfecting his craft. His determination to succeed and achieve recognition as a world-famous architect is a testament to his unwavering commitment to his dreams.
Despite the challenges that life in the DRC presents, Djodjo remains resolute in his pursuit of becoming a renowned architect, determined to leave a mark on the world. He wishes for people to remember him as “the Congolese who did great things.” Djodjo’s story serves as an inspiration, showcasing that with passion, dedication, and an unyielding spirit, one can rise above adversity and reach for the stars, regardless of their circumstances. Djodjo’s dreams, etched on cardboard, are a reminder of the power of perseverance and determination.
