Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “Life's most persistent and urgent question is: 'What are you doing for others?'”

Our mission

Ubumwe seeks to unify and empower Burundian Refugees as they pursue higher education and careers through Mentorship and Tangible Support.

Our vision

We long to see the refugees thriving in the academic arena and at work while guiding them. Ubumwe addresses the challenge in lack of guidance for Burundian refugees regarding higher education institutions and job networks. That is why we are committed to learn about our peers when they approach us for assistance and guidance.

Our Story

Ubumwe was founded on the 24th of October, 2017, in Fredericksburg, Virginia (VA) by Alexander Abel and Nehemia Abel. Having come to the United States with close to zero knowledge of the English language and the culture in the U.S., college enrollment was challenging for them. While they overcame this issue, they saw an opportunity to help other refugees by providing guidance and a plainer process for enrolling and excelling at a higher-level educational institution. They believed that with a higher education degree, they could achieve generational wealth for their family and fellow Burundian community members. It had been a struggle to make it through higher education and job networks that might have otherwise been easier with guidance and resources. They have named the organization Ubumwe, which means "unity" in the Kirundi language spoken in Burundi: a crucial part of the organization's mission. Ubumwe will unify and empower Burundian refugee youths in the diaspora with support for higher education leading to stable careers through mentorship, tutoring, and other professional development programs. In addition to academic and vocational assistance, Ubumwe members engage in community outreach to showcase Burundian culture, debunk stereotypes, and provide a shared space for members of the Burundian diaspora.

Meet the Team

Alexander Abel

CoFounder/president

Madeleine Hiniye

Director of Programs

Jean-Marie Hakizimana

Treasurer

Nehemia Abel

Cofounder/Vice President

Taylor Lowe

COmmonunications Coordinator