Today we’d like to introduce you to Kennedy Mutware.
Kennedy, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I was born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. With so many wars in Congo myself and my family fled the country and find ourselves as refugees in Burundi, later in Rwanda. In 2011, I came to the United States of America as a refugee and started school like any other kid in a normal life. After college, I started working as a case manager at Catholic Community Services, in Salt Lake City, UT where I was helping refugees from overseas to integrate in their new society. In December 2021, I resigned from work and moved to Kyle TX to start a new life with my family. Texas is one of the states in the US with so many refugees. I came to find out refugees in Texas receive help from their resettlements agencies only for 90 days. 90 days are not enough for someone who can’t speak the language, who can’t drive, who doesn’t have a job and doesn’t know the culture of the new society. Struggles start after the 90 days of support from the resettlement agencies. With the growth of many needs of refugees, I started a non-profit, New Americans Center, with the purpose of solving many refugees’ obstacles that they have to face in the state of Texas. The New Americans Center is a resource center for Texas refugees and immigrants, particularly those in the greater Austin area. Provides ongoing practical support, education and cultural orientation through people who understand both the refugees’ language and culture of origin. We now have many refugees’ cases from the city of Austin, Buda and Kyle but with the support we would like to expand our services of supporting refugees to many cities across the state.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has never been easier.
Supporting refugees in Texas faces several obstacles. Primarily due to policy and funding challenges.
Refugees often face difficulties integrating into communities due to language barriers, cultural differences and limited job opportunities.
Many refugees struggle with mental health issues stemming from traumatic experiences and accessing care can be challenging.
Changes in federal administrations have led to fluctuating refugees policies, creating uncertainty and disruptions in support services.
Legislation like the One Big Beautiful Bill Act has restricted refugees access to public service such as Medicaid, Medicare and Food Assistance.
It is not an easy road!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As the Executive Director of a nonprofit, I lead our team in providing support in many areas including counseling services and community programs. We are all about making a difference in our society.
I oversee daily operations, community outreach, and strategic planning.
I am known for compassionate leadership.
I am most proud of our team’ resilience and dedication to our mission.
What set us apart is our community driven approach. We listen, adapt and serve with heart.
Image Credits
Kennedy Mutware( single picture with One person’image)
Refugee ESL class graduation. ( 2nd photo)
