A Pilot's Mission in Ethiopia
In 1983, William Rew, a 30-year-old pilot from Montreal, embarked on a journey that would unknowingly contribute to one of the most iconic charity events in history. Joining the Mission Aviation Fellowship of Canada (MAF), Rew dedicated himself to delivering food and medicine to drought- and famine-stricken regions of Ethiopia during late 1983 and throughout 1984. His efforts in the face of dire conditions helped lay the groundwork for a global movement.
Rew's work was not just about flying missions; it was about witnessing and documenting the harrowing realities on the ground. 'I kept a diary. And in my one year in Ethiopia, I had more stuff to put in a diary than I did in the other, you know, 39 years of my commercial flying career,' Rew shared in an interview with The Epoch Times. His personal accounts captured the depth of the crisis, providing a firsthand perspective that would later resonate with millions.
The Spark of Live Aid
The impact of Rew's missions extended far beyond the immediate aid delivered. His efforts contributed to a groundbreaking BBC television report in 1984 that exposed the severity of the Ethiopian famine to the world. This report became a catalyst for action, inspiring musicians Bob Geldof and Midge Ure to organize the historic Live Aid concerts on July 13, 1985.
Held simultaneously at Wembley Stadium in London and John F. Kennedy Stadium in Philadelphia, Live Aid was billed as the 'global jukebox.' The event drew an estimated audience of 1.9 billion people across 150 nations, raising over US$100 million for famine relief. The concerts featured legendary performances by artists like Queen and were opened by figures such as Prince Charles and Princess Diana in London, marking a pivotal moment in humanitarian fundraising.
The scale of Live Aid was unprecedented, with additional concerts inspired by the initiative held in countries like Canada, Japan, Australia, and West Germany on the same day. It remains one of the largest satellite link-ups and television broadcasts of all time, highlighting the power of media and music in addressing global crises.
Reflecting on a Lasting Impact
Forty years after his missions, William Rew reflects on how his contributions in Ethiopia played a role in sparking a worldwide response to the famine. His diary entries from that year stand as a testament to the challenges faced by aid workers and the resilience of those they served. The legacy of Live Aid continues to inspire charity events and humanitarian efforts globally.
While controversies have surfaced over the years regarding the allocation of funds raised during Live Aid—with some posts on X suggesting that only a fraction went to food relief—the undeniable impact of the event lies in its ability to unite people across borders for a common cause. Rew's story serves as a reminder of the individual efforts behind monumental collective actions, underscoring the importance of every contribution in the face of adversity.