- Photo Credit: Jeremy David Photography
A Redemptive Tale
Many good films feature a “redemption arc,” a journey from personal crisis or addiction to personal triumph, and some lives also undergo a similar turnaround. Christopher was born in the East African countryside to a Kenyan father and an English mother who were deeply involved in wildlife conservation. That made his early years a heady blend of cultures and experiences.
Christopher grew up in Uganda and Tanzania, and his childhood was immersed in nature. However, it was also immersed in political and civil unrest, as well as the scarring events of that time. Finding a sense of stability and pride in sports, Christopher represented Uganda in swimming and motocross. After moving to the UK at 14, however, he suffered depression and homesickness. He fell into substance abuse and suffered from issues of identity.
But like an actor returning with a roar in Act III, Christopher sought help, began rehab, and ultimately helped launch a collegiate recovery program at the University of Birmingham. He channeled his own experiences into a relentless drive to help his peers. It was a turning point not just toward sobriety but toward purpose.
- Photo Credit: Jeremy David Photography, Thank you!
“I am here today because other people helped me. That’s why I want to help others,” Christopher shares.
This attitude has propelled his decisions and efforts ever since. For Christopher Pinsloo, charity isn’t a form of social obligation but an expression of gratitude.
“Life is hard,” he says. “Everyone could do with a little help.”
Providing a Little Help
Christopher has indeed been providing that “little help.” Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, he supported elderly individuals with learning disabilities in the UK. This entailed long, demanding shifts, but the work gave Christopher purpose at an especially dark moment for the country. He frequently recalls those long days, saying that despite returning home each day feeling exhausted, he also felt a sense of accomplishment, knowing that he had made others’ lives better.
Later, in Cernavodǎ, Romania, Christopher volunteered for Nightingales, an organization that supports children in difficult circumstances. For many, their mothers have been trafficked or forced into prostitution. Some of the children are dealing with HIV in a region where unscreened blood transfusions have led to alarmingly high rates of HIV among children.
Christopher also worked in a camp-style summer program that provided children like these with a safe space to learn essential life skills and play in a secure environment, allowing them to enjoy being children. (If you want to add your efforts to Christopher’s, you can volunteer or donate to Nightingales here.)
Remembering his upbringing and his parents’ care for animals (his sister is also involved in conservation and rescue efforts), Christopher has also lent a hand back home. In Uganda, the large stray dog population faces harsh treatment and even cruelty from people who fear the packs of strays.
Christopher has worked alongside veterinary students and the Ugandan Society for the Protection and Care of Animals to organize spay and neuter clinics, helping to manage the stray population.
Returning to the UK recently and acting on an idea his mother had given him, Christopher undertook a 26-mile walk along the Clarendon Way to raise funds for Naomi House & Jacksplace, a hospice for children and young adults with medical conditions that have severely limited the life they have left.
At the time, Christopher was not in the best physical shape, but the importance of the cause captured his heart. His walk raised over £2 million and raised awareness of the needs of local hospice care.
- Photo Credit: Jeremy David Photography
Looking to the Future
Christopher continues his acting work, as well. As the recipient of the Charles Jehlinger Award from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, he uses his time in the spotlight to share real-life stories, particularly those related to mental health.
Reflecting on his past struggles and the depression and addiction he has faced, Christopher shares that feelings of hopelessness, though powerful and weighty, are only feelings; they are not your reality. And the scene in your life that you are in at the moment is not the last scene of your film.
Looking ahead, Christopher hopes to continue his volunteering and advocacy, utilizing his acting career to raise awareness and funding for causes that alleviate the suffering of animals, children, the elderly, and other vulnerable populations.
Whether on set or in the community, Christopher’s passion has remained unchanged since those days at the University of Birmingham. That passion is to serve others, to give back, and to express sheer gratitude for being alive and part of a community.
(You can follow Christopher Prinsloo on Instagram or IMDB.)
