Overcoming obstacles with courage and a smile
Donovan Amadis, 33, is a home delivery driver for KFC in Saint-Pierre. Every day, he covers miles on his scooter, delivering KFC meals to offices, young couples, and families in the Saint-Pierre area. At first glance, his journey may seem ordinary, but it’s important to note that Donovan has been living with a prosthetic leg since the age of 19, following a traffic accident. The prosthetic he has worn ever since allows him to carry out his work, support his family, and thrive in his professional life.
What is particularly impressive about this young man is his remarkable ability to always find the positive, even in the darkest moments. “Since my accident, I never had the chance to fall into depression because I have always been well surrounded. If I had to sum up my life philosophy in one sentence, I’d say that no matter what happens, you have to keep moving forward. You can’t let hardships bring you down,” he shares.
This positive attitude extends to all aspects of his life, both personal and professional. At work, he has always refused to be treated differently because of his disability. “I didn’t want my colleagues to hesitate when talking to me. And above all, I didn’t want to be labeled or pitied,” he explains.
To break the ice, Donovan chose humor and self-mockery. “I joke about ‘getting a kick out of things’ or ‘running away on both legs.’ At first, my colleagues would look at me with wide eyes, but then they would burst out laughing!” Today, his colleagues treat him like any other team member, without distinction or condescension. “Everyone is great with me, whether it’s men or women, the cleaning staff, or the boss. I appreciate them all equally.”
Beyond his job, Donovan has a passion for sports. He plays wheelchair basketball and recently competed in the Indian Ocean Club Cup. In 2011, he placed fourth in the 50-meter freestyle at the Indian Ocean Island Games (JIOI). Ambitious, he hopes to renew the experience at the next JIOI in 2027. He has already set up a rigorous training program, aiming to complete the race in under 34 seconds and beat the current titleholder, Scodi Victor, his competitor.
His idol in the world of wheelchair sports is Mauritian para-athlete Noémi Alphonse, world vice-champion in the 100m. “Watching her, I think, why not me? I know I’ll have to work hard, adopt a healthy lifestyle, and train regularly. When there’s a will, there’s a way,” he says before continuing. “I remember the pride I felt looking at the trophies and medals of my uncle, Claudio Amadis, a judo champion. I want to see that same spark of pride in my children’s eyes one day. Then, we can do this interview again,” he adds with a smile before heading off on his scooter.