Fidel Nshombo

State: Idaho

City of Residence: Boise, Idaho

Country of origin: Democratic Republic of the Congo

Arrival in the U.S.: 2006

Originally from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mr. Fidel Nshombo was resettled to the United States in 2006 and currently resides in Boise, Idaho with his wife and four daughters. Mr. Nshombo fled violence in his home country when he was just twelve years old. Although he experienced great trauma throughout his childhood, he writes and shares his story to help overcome his past experiences. He has authored two books of poetry and released two documentaries to spread awareness about refugees in the United States. Mr. Nshombo has shared his poetry and stories in schools and universities throughout Idaho and Oregon, and has had numerous speaking engagements, including a speech he gave on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at the state capitol. The state of Idaho honored Mr. Nshombo with the “Refugee Success in Integration” award, and he was also recognized for his human rights work by the Mayor of Boise. You may follow Fidel Nshombo’s life and work on his website http://boisetobukavu.org. The contribution to his community that he is most proud of is preparing elementary schools before they admit refugee students.

Word for US: Peaceful