I'Ll Be Your Light: You Have to Be Strong to Survive

Neglect, abuse, and starvation all are part of Mannie Veneno's family legacy of pain. Starting in Pakistan, where his grandmother was married to an abusive husband, the cycle would continue for three generations. His mother was forced to marry a Pakistani gangster at a young age. Even after moving to the United States for a better life, she, Mannie, and his siblings were victims of his nightmarish rage. With an abusive dad and a mom who couldn't walk away, Mannie didn't have role models to emulate. Everyone around him was either gang members, criminals, or addicts-and he didn't see a clear path forward. Making matters worse, he was often bullied in school and teased because of his poor English. As an adult making his way in the world, Mannie now has a choice: continue the cycle or be a light in the darkness, a hope for others to keep going.