Will Smith Meets Guinean Man Who Cycled Across Six Countries To Get To University In Egypt

Will Smith, renowned Hollywood actor, recently stunned Mamadou Safayou Barry, a Guinean man who embarked on a remarkable 4,000km journey across Africa to pursue education at Egypt’s prestigious Al-Azhar University. Smith, deeply moved by Barry’s odyssey, reached out to him via a video call to Cairo, where Barry is currently studying, and generously gifted him a new bike and a laptop.

Smith learned about Barry’s extraordinary trek through a BBC Instagram post last September and expressed his desire to share Barry’s inspiring story with the world. In a short film uploaded to Smith’s YouTube channel, the star’s conversation with Barry revealed the student’s surprise and gratitude, calling it an encounter with a movie icon he deeply admires.

Barry’s expedition began last May from Guinea, a journey fraught with challenges through countries marked by political instability and jihadist threats, including Mali, Burkina Faso, Togo, Benin, Niger, and Chad. His determination led to multiple arrests, yet he persevered, reaching Cairo after four months of cycling.

In Cairo, Al-Azhar University recognised Barry’s commitment, offering him a full scholarship for Islamic Studies. This opportunity fulfilled his dream and overcame the trials faced during his daring venture. Dr. Nahla Elseidy, the Dean of Islamic studies at Al-Azhar, emphasised the institution’s dedication to providing knowledge and grants to international students, extending its support beyond Egyptian borders.

Barry, elated by the scholarship, expressed immense joy and gratitude, stating that his hardships during the expedition faded in comparison to the honour of becoming an Al-Azhar scholar. Smith’s gesture, coupled with the university’s support, marked a turning point in Barry’s life, affirming the adage that dedication to one’s journey brings unforeseen aid.

This heartwarming tale of resilience and achievement exemplifies the power of determination and the support that transcends boundaries, promising a brighter future for Mamadou Safayou Barry as he fulfils his educational aspirations at Al-Azhar University.