COVER STORY
I’ve always had a great interest in promoting equality, human rights and trying to help the less fortunate in this world, especially children, no matter what their race, religion or colour. Some years ago a good friend of mine, Souad Boudairi, invited me over for coffee. She said that she would like to introduce me to a very special lady; someone who is sincere, of great intelligence and possesses an even greater heart. I was intrigued but, before I agreed, I urged her to tell me more about this mystery person. Souad told me of the multiple missions of mercy and kindness that this woman had participated in and, in many cases, even organised herself. She said that she presides over a number of humanitarian organisations including ‘The Children of Iraq’, aimed at relieving the poverty bestowed on Arab children, due to the sanctions imposed on that country. She has published a book of the same name whose profits are donated to this desperately sad cause. Souad gave me an address in the suburbs of Paris and I headed over, intrigued and excited about meeting this special person. I could not have been more surprised when I entered the house to see Jany le Pen striding confidently towards me with a warm and welcoming smile. Surely, the wife of the right wing politician and activist, Jean Marie le Pen could not be the living, breathing Angel whom my friend had described? However, Jany has proved to be just that - and so much more. On this occasion, we spent much time talking about the amazing projects which she champions and also new projects planned for the future. ubE-6
MR RHITI Hi Jany! Thank you so much for welcoming us into your beautiful home, and giving us the chance to speak with you! We truly are honoured. Can you tell us a little bit about where your passion comes from and how you transmute that passion into action? How did it all begin? JANY LE PEN So nice to see you again Mr. Rhiti! It’s always a pleasure to speak with you, and now your readers! I guess I’ve always had it in me! I can’t stand to see the suffering of the innocent; in particular children. I believe everyone deserves a fair chance at life, and I’m here to create awareness for those who cannot speak up for themselves - almost like a voice for the voiceless. I just want to see fairness for all, and I took that passion within me to make at least a little bit of change, within a much more complex issue. This is an issue that must be dealt with on a global scale, but I know that if I can be one more person contributing to that change, it’s an extra strength on the team, you know? So that’s why I do what I do *Jany smiles warmly. MR RHITI It’s wonderful to hear there are still individuals who want to contribute to the greater good - it’s very inspiring! The world has made it difficult to care for others, when everyone is focused on their own struggles, so it’s amazing to see the work you do! JANY LE PEN Thank you! I do believe that people can change the way they look at things, and again that’s why I try to speak out, so others can find the path.
