Out of Darkness

Join us for an inspiring evening with Shaquil Aribuk, a remarkable individual whose journey from the islands of Palau to Alaska exemplifies resilience and determination.

Born and raised in the Republic of Palau—a nation in the Micronesia subregion of Oceania in the western Pacific Ocean—Shaquil enjoyed a vibrant childhood filled with fishing, hunting, and playing basketball. Limited opportunities on the island prompted him and his family to relocate to Alaska in search of better prospects.

In 2019, tragedy struck when Shaquil contracted necrotizing fasciitis, a rare flesh-eating bacterial infection. After collapsing and spending 10 days in a coma, he awoke to discover he had lost both legs and his sight due to damage to his optic nerves. This devastating turn led to profound despair, compounded by the death of his grandmother, but a subsequent health scare became a pivotal moment. Through prayer and reflection, Shaquil rediscovered his purpose and sought support at the Alaska Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired, where he was inspired by program director Nate Kile, who is also blind.

Now 30 years old, Shaquil has not let his challenges define him. He has mastered assistive technology, confidently navigating smartphones and computers without sight. A passionate musician, he sings and plays multiple instruments, including the keyboard, drums, ukulele, and piano—finding deeper meaning in music as a way to relive cherished memories.

He actively participates in adaptive sports like skiing and rock climbing, and he aspires to become an assistive technology instructor to help others adapt to similar circumstances.

Living with unwavering passion and purpose, Shaquil—affectionately known as "S.H.A.Q." for "sharing hope aspiring qualities"—delivers motivational speeches to inspire audiences far and wide. In his words, "Once you put your mind into something you want to do in life, you can do it. Sky is the limit, it’s just you have to work for it."

Join us as he shares his powerful story of overcoming adversity, proving that even in darkness, hope and achievement are possible. This event promises to motivate and uplift all who attend!