From Spartanburg to Liberia: Zeze Quaqua's Journey of Resilience After Deportation

​At the PATH Foundation, we believe in shedding light on the human stories behind complex issues. Today, we share the powerful journey of Zeze Quaqua, an African man who, after building a life in the United States, faced the profound challenge of deportation and the incredible resilience required to rebuild.

​Zeze arrived in America at the age of 16, full of dreams common to many immigrants: to establish a career, own a home, and create a stable life. He settled in Spartanburg, South Carolina, where he diligently worked as an auto mechanic, bought a home, and started a family. "My life in the U.S. was established, mature," Zeze recounts, painting a picture of a man rooted in his community.

​Then, his world was abruptly upended. The shock of deportation left him feeling "broken." The moment he stepped off the plane in Liberia, the weight of what he had lost—his career, his home, his established life—was immense. Returning to a place that was his homeland but no longer felt entirely familiar, he faced the daunting task of starting anew.

​Upon his return, Zeze encountered not only the personal challenges of rebuilding but also the social stigma from some in his community. Fortunately, his aunt welcomed him, providing a crucial foundation for his fresh start. Unable to immediately find work in his specialized field, Zeze demonstrated remarkable adaptability. He immersed himself in learning new skills in construction and electricity, determined to earn a living and regain his footing.

​Today, Zeze's primary goals are clear: to build his own home in Liberia and to start a family. He aspires to be remembered as a man who, despite losing everything, meticulously regained it through sheer hard work and unwavering determination.

​His message to others facing similar circumstances is one of profound mental fortitude. He emphasizes the critical importance of keeping one's "mind right" to avoid succumbing to despair. "Be strong and mentally prepared for the challenges of starting over," he advises, offering a beacon of hope born from his own experience.

​Zeze Quaqua's story is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for resilience in the face of immense adversity. It reminds us of the profound impact of deportation on individuals and families, and the courage it takes to forge a new path.