In the world of cinema, “Can You See Us?” stands as a beacon of storytelling. Directed by Kenny Mumba, this Zambian drama film unfurls an inspiring coming-of-age narrative.
At its core, it revolves around Joseph, a young musician whose life is a tapestry woven with the threads of albinism, intolerance, and resilience.
This article peels back the layers of this remarkable film, delving into Joseph’s tumultuous journey.
Joseph’s Early Life
Joseph’s story begins with heartache as he faces rejection from his biological father at a tender age.
The warm embrace of his mother, Chama, and his adoptive father, Martin, becomes his sanctuary.
However, the shadows of discrimination loom large as Joseph endures ceaseless bullying and harassment from his peers.
Joseph’s Discovery of Music
Amidst the adversity, Joseph discovers his lifeline—music. It becomes his sanctuary, offering solace and a medium for self-expression.
With unwavering determination, he embarks on a journey to pursue his musical dreams, ultimately ascending to fame in Zambia.
The film draws inspiration from the real-life experiences of Zambian musician John Chiti.
Exploring Mercy Chiti
At the heart of this inspiring story is Mercy Chiti, John‘s devoted wife. Their union, spanning nearly a decade, has been marked by happiness and shared faith as Seventh-Day Adventists.
Mercy plays a significant but often behind-the-scenes role in John‘s life.

Sharon: The On-Screen Counterpart
In “Can You See Us?” Sharon emerges as a pivotal character. Portrayed by Chipego Michelle Mwiinga and Marie Ndhlovu in their younger and older iterations, respectively, Sharon is Joseph’s source of solace and friendship.
Her character’s evolution throughout the narrative mirrors the growth of their bond.
Parallels Between Sharon and Mercy
While the film may not precisely mirror every aspect of John and Mercy’s love story, parallels can be drawn between the on-screen character Sharon and John Chiti‘s real-life wife, Mercy.
However, given John‘s different school experiences, their love story likely carries its own unique nuances.
Mercy’s Support in John Chiti’s Career
John‘s musical journey underwent a transformative shift when he released the Christian album “Wapusuka” in 2010. This marked a critical juncture in his career, accompanied by challenges such as the loss of some friends and fans.
Throughout this transformation, Mercy stood steadfast by his side, offering unwavering support in both his career and faith.

Mercy’s Private Life
Mercy’s preference for privacy aligns with John‘s inclination to keep their personal lives shielded from the public eye.
While limited information is available about her, glimpses of Mercy occasionally surface on John‘s YouTube channel.
These snippets offer a rare window into their family life, which is evidently grounded in love, faith, and contentment.
Conclusion
“Can You See Us?” not only brings an inspiring story to the screen but also stirs curiosity about the real-life inspirations behind its characters.
Joseph’s journey, mirroring that of Zambian musician John Chiti, is a testament to resilience and the power of music.
Mercy Chiti, portrayed through the character of Sharon, embodies unwavering support and love.
Theirs is a story of faith, love, and the indomitable human spirit that resonates with audiences far and wide.