Educate. Empower. Engage. Clement Kigugu, LNH '23, of Overcomers Refugee Services shares his inspiring story with middle school students.
The LNH Network is already working for the LNH Class of '23!
This is a recent post from the LNH Class of '23 Group Page on LNH Connects. With permission from Kaarin Olofsson Milne and Clement Kigugu, two of the Associates in this year's class, LNH is proud to share this with everyone. Associates are halfway through the class year and have formed some incredible partnerships and collaborations while learning about each other.
"Thank You, Clement Kigugu!
Clement graciously accepted an invitation to visit Heronfield Academy in Hampton falls this morning to share his story with some bright young minds.
He walked 90 students and staff through his life in Rwanda and the Congo, describing how he had to leave his family behind in order to help them, and how he came to the US and did the hard work of build a life that his family could join him in.
The entire room of 11-14 year olds was silently captivated as he shared how he moved through these phases of his life, pausing to let them imagine for themselves how they would feel in his shoes-- An asylum seeker new to the US, having to learn the language and culture, find a job and get around.
He gave a nod to the welcoming nature of our state and how people in the community were often ready to answer his questions or support him in some way.
Clement delivered a message so relatable to these kids-- they surely saw something new in his experiences but could also see themselves in the way he described his his feelings, his family, his determination to thrive, and how his experience pulled his heart towards the meaningful work helping others.
Thank you for expanding their perspective, Clement.
Much love!
Kaarin"
In a follow-up note, the students found Clement so engaging that they asked to have him back for a sanctuary presentation and he has accepted the invitation.