大象传媒

Gilbert Alaskadi grew up in the African country of Chad. His family was poor, and he spent much of his childhood hungry, with people frequently making fun of his small stature. Then, when he was a teenager, he encountered a bodybuilding pamphlet, promising quick muscle growth in a handful of weeks. He wanted the physique, but first he'd need money and calories. At the first opportunity he ran away from home, left the country, and jumped head-first into the world of bodybuilding.

Gary Stevenson grew up poor on the outskirts of London. He would see the skyscrapers of the city鈥檚 business district in the distance and dream of working there and becoming a millionaire. When that dream became reality, he fell into depression. He now campaigns against wealth inequality and has written a book called The Trading Game.

Growing up with albinism, Zambian singer John Chiti faced a lot of stigma. As a boy, he was bullied, and as an adult he faced barriers to his music career. Eventually, he released his music for radio only, hiding his face. Once his music was a hit, and nobody could deny his talent, he went on television to reveal his identity.

Aigul Akhmetshina was surrounded by traditional folk music growing up in the Russian Republic of Bashkortostan. After hearing opera for the first time knew she wanted to become a professional on the world's great stages. And at just 21 years old Aigul debuted as Carmen in Bizet's masterpiece at the Royal Opera House in London.

Presenter: Jo Fidgen
Producer: Helen Fitzhenry

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(Photo: Cassette tape. Photo credit: Getty Images)