Alexis Niyonkuru

State: Texas

City of Residence: Houston, Texas

Country of origin: Burundi

Arrival in the U.S.: 2007

Mr. Alexis Niyonkuru is a refugee from Burundi who was resettled to Houston, Texas in 2007. Shortly after his arrival to the U.S., Mr. Niyonkuru decided to join the Gary Job Corps Center, and within a couple years he received his High School Diploma, PCA Certificate, and a Certification in Transportation and Business Communications International Union. Because of the difficult situation he faced as a refugee, Mr. Niyonkuru and his friends decided to volunteer and create UBAHO (United Burundian-Refugee Association of Houston), to assist Burundian and other refugee groups who are resettled in Houston. He currently serves as the Personnel Director of UBAHO and as the General Secretary of Burundian Community of Houston. He is most proud of the time he spends listening to community members, translating and interpreting, and directing them to the right resources based on their needs.

Word for U.S.: Opportunity