Hugues was born and raised in Cibitoke, Burundi. In his early teens, Hugues regularly drank and smoked weed—he was ungrateful and was a burden on his family. In Hugues’ community, Christians were viewed as uneducated, but in 2006, his sister led him to Christ and Hugues’ life was transformed.   

Hugues’ new priorities led him to become the leader of a club in his school called New Generation. This initiative was focused on empowering youth through spiritual development and involvement in tangible programs such as the collection of food and clothing for impoverished communities and joining the fight against AIDS.

After graduating from high school, Hugues began studying Economics in university and at the age of 20 he launched Jeunesse au Service d’un Burundi Meilleur (JSBM): an NGO committed to empowering youth to catalyze change and defend human rights.

Currently, JSBM has three core programs, nine staff members, and dozens of volunteers. Its largest initiative is called ‘Nanje Nobaho’—a Kirundi phrase which translates to ‘I can live too.’ Nanje Nobaho provides education, psychological assistance, and sex education to street children in north Bujumbura. JSBM’s second program, ‘Inkingi’ (pillar), is dedicated to empowering women and promoting gender equality. As part of this program, JSBM staff members advocate for gender equality in institutions throughout the country and provide economic empowerment and coaching for women. The third program delivered by JSBM is called ‘Inyenyeri’ (star). The Inyenyeri program is focused on integrating youth into the workforce and equipping them to be financially independent.

JSBM also provides emergency relief, when necessary. For example, in July a flood caused mass internal displacement and Hugues mobilized his staff to identify the victims and raise emergency relief funds. They used these funds to distribute 3 tonnes of soap, 550 tents, 550 blankets, 350 sanitary pads, and 99 loincloths.

Hugues’ impact in the community extends far beyond his role as the Founder and CEO of JSBM and dedication to youth and women empowerment. The 29-year-old has also coordinated campaigns and committees focused on the rights of albinos, peaceful conflict resolution, reforesting Burundi, and access to education. Hugues is also a member of the cleaning team at his church and helped his church start an initiative to financially empower women in small communities.    

Hugues’ involvement in various areas of his community reveals his passion for holistic development. He wants to see Burundians—especially young people—live like Christ and serve others. After hearing about ALI from a friend who graduated from the program, Hugues decided to apply because he wants to grow as a Christian leader. Hugues has led JSBM for over seven years and he believes the practical leadership skills taught in this competency-based program will help him realize his vision.

To learn more about Hugues’ work, visit https://jsbm.org.bi/ and https://www.facebook.com/nanjenobaho/. Videos about JSBM can also be found here.

Thanks to donations made by generous members of the Kurumbuka community, Hugues has no remaining scholarship needs! Any additional funds given through this page will be allocated towards future ALI scholarships.