At the age of nine, Rosca Onya arrived in London as a refugee from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which was embroiled in civil war. Separated from his parents, he and his sisters spent four years in refugee camps before the family was eventually reunited in the UK. However, London was not the sanctuary they had hoped for. The family of ten squeezed into a two-bedroom flat, facing challenges both at home and in school.
Struggling with the language barrier, Rosca was bullied at school in Plumstead. At home, his father, traumatized by his military detention, lashed out at his children. Seeking belonging and protection, Rosca found solace in the streets with older kids who took care of him. Unaware of the dangers, he became entangled in a gang, running errands that tied him to drug dealing.
By the age of 17, Rosca had been arrested, convicted of gun possession, and sentenced to a decade behind bars. Throughout his time in prison, he was moved between 16 different institutions, enduring a tumultuous journey through the penal system. It was during his stay at Grendon, a therapeutic jail, that he met Jack Merritt, a remarkable mentor who would play a pivotal role in shaping his future.
Together, Rosca and Jack worked tirelessly to secure Rosca’s release and became advocates for prison reform. Tragically, Jack lost his life in the London Bridge stabbings in November 2019, leaving a profound impact on Rosca and all involved. Jack’s compassion and dedication to helping others left an indelible mark on Rosca, inspiring him to pursue music as a healing outlet.
In honor of Jack, Rosca released a tribute track titled “Jack,” reflecting on the lasting impact of his mentor’s legacy. Today, Rosca uses his music not only as a form of expression but also as a means of healing and spreading positivity. Collaborating with a new band, he continues to channel his experiences into powerful lyrics, resonating with his audience through the profound journey he has undertaken.
Renowned for his captivating blend of lending rap and afro-soul melodies, Onya is not only a talented musician but also a compassionate soul dedicated to making a positive impact on the community, particularly the youth facing challenges.
In his mission to support young individuals navigating difficult circumstances, Onya generously donates a portion of the earnings from his performances to charitable organizations focused on providing opportunities and guidance to disenfranchised youth. By supporting initiatives that aim to uplift and empower young people, he hopes to steer them away from the perils of the streets and towards a path of promise and fulfillment.
Offering words of encouragement and wisdom to struggling youngsters, Onya emphasizes the importance of resilience, self-belief, and staying true to oneself in the face of adversity. Drawing from his own experiences of overcoming obstacles and setbacks, including time spent in prison, he highlights the transformative power of perseverance and the significance of second chances in shaping one’s future.
Reflecting on the challenges he has faced, Onya acknowledges the profound impact of his journey through the criminal justice system, where uncertainty and setbacks tested his resilience and resolve. Through his advocacy for giving individuals the opportunity to redeem themselves and for investing in the potential of young people to thrive, he underscores the need for society to nurture and support the next generation amid prevailing challenges and social issues.
Driven by a deep sense of purpose and a desire to effect positive change, Onya remains committed to his mission of uplifting and inspiring others, one person at a time. With a humble yet determined spirit, he recognizes the importance of collective action in addressing societal issues and sees his role as a catalyst for transformation and empowerment within his community.
As Onya continues to make strides in his musical career and social endeavors, his message resounds with sincerity and conviction, resonating with those who seek guidance and hope in the face of adversity. Through his music and advocacy, he champions the values of resilience, compassion, and the belief in the inherent potential of every individual to rise above their circumstances and forge a brighter future.
For those inspired by Onya’s story and message of hope, his journey serves as a reminder of the transformative power of perseverance, second chances, and the unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. In a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, his voice stands out as a beacon of positivity and resilience, urging us all to embrace our struggles as opportunities for growth and renewal.
To stay connected with Onya’s music and social impact initiatives, listeners can tune in to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X, and Instagram. For those with compelling stories or ideas to share, reach out to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk and be a part of the journey towards positive change and empowerment in our communities.
