Ass Bamba is a Senegalese immigrant in New York who survived a dangerous Atlantic crossing after leaving Senegal for Brazil, a route other Senegalese migrants have described as one of the most perilous paths to the United States. He told me he thought he would die while drifting for nearly 40 days in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, though he now says the memory has begun to feel almost distant.

In New York, Ass Bamba worked in franchise restaurants and was promoted to manager, reflecting his discipline and work ethic. But he said the wages no longer felt motivating, especially as he faced pressure to earn more and support his family back home. As the second son, he felt a growing responsibility after his older brother was injured in a traffic accident. He eventually began working for delivery apps and selling branded bags on Canal Street.