Alexandre became a Christian when he was 18. Since that day, he has felt the power of the Holy Spirit and God gave him a clear vision: to see young people transformed and empowered to be change-makers in their communities. As Alexandre reflected on his life, he realized that this calling aligned with his own upbringing. He was a successful football player and inquisitive student, but no one ever encouraged him or challenged him. Alexandre committed to meet that need by becoming the mentor that he never had.

In 2016, Alexandre launched Empower Burundi: an NGO that exists to educate young people and leaders by training and empowering them to promote sustainable development. Young people face various challenges in Burundi, including crippling unemployment rates and limited educational opportunities. Empower Burundi has worked to empower young people through various initiatives. Currently, the organization’s primary project is the Dusome Book Club (DUBOC). The adult literacy rate in Burundi is 68%—DUBOC is responding to this societal challenge by promoting reading among young people. The program also helps youth grow their vocabulary by creating a space for them to practice public speaking. 

Empower Burundi also hosts regular seminars to stimulate entrepreneurship. Its other initiatives have included school construction projects, a career fair, and a micro-finance project. The work of Empower Burundi has improved access to education, led youth to launch their own companies, and increased access to capital. Most importantly, Empower Burundi’s work has led youth throughout Burundi to accept Jesus as their Lord and Saviour.

In the future, Alexandre hopes to grow Empower Burundi by increasing the number of partnerships with local and international NGOs. He also hopes to collaborate with the government in finding innovative solutions to national challenges. 

In addition to his work with Empower Burundi, Alexandre serves at his church by preaching to small groups and praying for patients at hospitals. He also regularly reaches out to prisoners and provides them with food, clothing, and bibles.

Alexandre decided to apply for ALI because he wants to increase his personal capacity for impact and ensure Empower Burundi is sustainable.

To learn more about Alexandre’s work, visit https://www.facebook.com/empowerburundi.