My name is Vestine Ncungu, and I am a survivor of the 1994 Rwanda Genocide against the Tutsi. I was 11 years old when our president’s plane was shot down, inciting a slaughter that lasted 100 days, turned neighbor against neighbor, and left more than one million people dead — including my parents, grandparents, and all six of my siblings. Incredibly, I survived not just one but many brushes with death. Years later, I came to the United States, where I learned a different kind of survival. Now, I am sharing my story in hopes of inspiring others who are going through difficult times, expressing my gratitude to all the people who have helped me on my journey, and warning others of the horrific consequences of hatred and division. I am available for speaking engagements for high school, college, and community groups throughout the year.

Contact: vestine.ncungu@gmail.com