Entrepreneurship to break the chronic cycle of poverty and violence in an area of DR Congo
Aug 12, 2024 6:40 PM
Alexis Ruhumuriza & Dean Wagner of Congo Peace
Entrepreneurship to break the chronic cycle of poverty and violence in an area of DR Congo
Alexis Ruhumuriza and Dean Wagner will discuss the challenges of poverty and violence in an under-developed and remote area of Democratic Republic of Congo and a program to reduce both through education of ethical leaders, capitalism, entrepreneurship, and reconciliation. The mission of Congo Peace is to break the chronic cycle of poverty, violence and tribal animosity in the Minembwe region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) by assisting all tribes equally. We provide initial emergency support, and teach vocational and entrepreneurial skills to foster economic opportunity and stability, guided by Christ's reconciling love.
Alexis Ruhumuriza was born in South Kivu in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and moved to Rwanda when barely a teen. As a teenager, Alexis founded a Christian school for children in Kigali, Rwanda – Rwanda Faith Academy. While there, he connected with an American mission team from Bellevue Presbyterian Church in Bellevue, Washington. He also met his wife Chantal. Through his American connections, he and his family relocated to Washington state. He became a pastor at Bellevue Presbyterian/New Hope Revival, a worshipping community of East African people. Since that time, Pastor Alexis has also founded Agape in Home Care and Congo Peace. Alexis and Chantal have four beautiful children. He is a committed Christian who believes that with God all things are possible.
Dean Wagner is a retired health care leader and Air Force Officer who has resided in Bellevue since 1990. He is in active leadership roles for various U.S. and African based not-for-profits. Dean was born in a small rural village in Nebraska to a mercantile and farming family. After serving his commitment as a U.S. Air Force officer, he moved to Bellevue to pursue a civilian career while continuing to serve in the Air Force Reserve. His hobbies include travel, wood working, hiking, cross-country skiing, kayaking, motorcycling, reading history, and exploring world cultures. Dean is an avid aviator with ratings in airplanes, helicopters and gliders.
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