Hubert H. Humphrey Fellow Shares Leadership Journey and Community Impact Through Disability Inclusion in Burundi

Programming example

In his presentation, Jimmy Ndihokubwayo, a 2023–2024 @The Hubert H Humphrey Fellowship Program Fellow at Michigan State University, shared an inspiring story of leadership, resilience, and community transformation.Born with a hand disability, Ndihokubwayo has turned personal challenges into a driving force for social change. Before joining the fellowship, he founded Community Rise (formerly Tabitha Community in Action), an organization dedicated to youth empowerment and community development. Through his work, he has focused on building inclusive spaces for all, particularly children and adults with disabilities.During his fellowship, Ndihokubwayo received academic training at Michigan State University and leadership development at Baltimore City Community College, Maryland. He gained practical experience with the Lansing Economic Area Partnership | LEAP, while networking with international leaders, visiting The White House, and participating in public speaking engagements to share hashtag#Burundi’s story. These connections strengthened his capacity to drive projects at home that address social inclusion and economic development.Since returning to hashtag#Burundi, Ndihokubwayo has launched several initiatives promoting disability inclusion. Notably, he has advanced sitting volleyball programs, expanded educational opportunities for children with disabilities, and developed community projects that integrate youth and women in leadership roles. Under his leadership, Community Rise has also secured more than three international partnerships, inviting U.S. collaborators to participate in transformative projects across the country.Reflecting on his journey, Ndihokubwayo emphasized that his U.S. experience expanded his global perspective and professional network, equipping him with tools to create meaningful local impact. “Global learning must translate into local change,” he said, highlighting the importance of inclusive community development and the empowerment of marginalized groups.hashtag#andikamagazinehashtag#writeyourownstoryhashtag#Burundihashtag#africahashtag#USinBurundihashtag#exchangeprogram

Communities

• Disability & Neurodiversity

Formats

• Career Development Event
• Speaker Presentation

Goals

• Connect