The Story of Sam Banda

I met Sam on my 2nd trip to Malawi in 2014. Sam was a painter of wildlife scenes and African landscape. Sam was pretty talented as a painter.

What set Sam apart from others? Sam was born with no hands, just nubs. So Sam had to learn a trade in order to survive in Malawi. He took up painting.

He painted putting the brush between his nubs, in his teeth, or with his feet. But that’s not the most amazing thing about Sam. Not at all.

Joe Veal, president of U-Turn Ministries, met Sam Banda in the “carving market” of Lilongwe. Joe saw an opportunity to use Sam’s paintings back in the US to make money for future trips. However, before Joe entered into this agreement with Sam, Joe told Sam about Jesus! Sam accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior on that very day! Hallelujah!!!

The rest is history as they say. Sam started painting and Joe started purchasing 100’s of painted canvases of African wildlife and scenery. We too had the opportunity to purchase these same paintings and bring them back to the States with us, to share or to sell for future trips.

I’m not real sure how many paintings Sam made and sold. But I did hear from our translators that Sam made enough to buy his mom and dad a home! I have no idea how much it costs. What Sam did was what we should all strive for: taking care of our aging parents whatever the need.

Instead of becoming a beggar on the street, Sam thrived! Every Christian should follow Sam’s motivational drive. We are made to thrive!

I bought many paintings from Sam to resale back in the States. I framed them with barn wood and they sold like hotcakes! Especially once people heard the story of Sam and where he lived. Most homes do not have a piece of artwork from Africa. An original piece that is hand painted. I still have several in my home.

Sam passed from this life into the next several years ago. He was a young man in an impoverished 3rd world country. Those that knew him and spoke with him will never forget his smile! One day, I will see Sam again in heaven!