Influential Woman · Non profit
Ciella Ininahazwe
Co-Founder and Executive Director, Initiative Manna
Chicago, IL 60645
Her Story
About Ciella
Ciella Ininahazwe serves as co-founder and executive director of Initiative Mana, a nonprofit organization she helped launch in January 2022. The organization supports students in Burundi who have completed high school but lack funds for college by providing resources such as tuition support, pocket money, transportation, and laptops. She came to the United States from Burundi in September 2021 to attend Northwestern University and has accumulated five years of experience in the nonprofit field. In addition to her work with Initiative Mana, she participates in the Tujing Africa Foundation gap year program, which prepares students for opportunities abroad through English language training and critical thinking skills. Her responsibilities include coordinating with the co-founder in Burundi, overseeing social media and website content, and strategizing fundraising efforts such as GoFundMe campaigns.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Ciella
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to God as a Christian believer, seeing Him working through the ups and downs. Also perseverance and not giving up, asking for help from others, and flexibility to think outside the box when things don't go as planned.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Go for it if something is on your heart and you're passionate about the cause. You'll meet people willing to join you. As long as you have passion, motivation, and conviction, money won't be an obstacle. Explain it well and share your fire with others.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Empathy, humility, curiosity, being grounded and not forgetting your roots, and extending compassion to others like the Burundian value of Wonu. Loving others as you would love yourself.
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