Darlene Nicky Niyonzima (Hakizimana), MA
Darlene Nicky Niyonzima (Hakizimana), MA, is a dedicated economic and social justice advocate, empathic leader, and community builder committed to driving impact and equity. With over six years of experience in nonprofit management, community development, and entrepreneurship programs, she has consistently demonstrated a results-driven approach to empowering underserved communities. Her expertise spans designing and implementing social impact initiatives, fostering cross-sector collaboration, and cultivating sustainable change through innovative leadership.
Currently serving as the Partnership and Development Manager at the United Women of East Africa Support Team (UWEAST), Darlene leads initiatives that strengthen community programs and scale social enterprises. She has also held leadership roles with organizations including the Community Resource Center, Jewish Family Service of San Diego, and Social Advocates for Youth (SAY San Diego), where she has overseen case management, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and site operations. In addition, she advises and mentors aspiring entrepreneurs through Growth Aspired People and The Tony Elumelu Foundation, furthering her commitment to economic empowerment and social equity.
Darlene earned her Master of Arts in Social Innovation from the University of San Diego, graduating cum laude, and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and Banking from the International Leadership University in Burundi. Fluent in English and French, she combines her multilingual capabilities with strategic, collaborative leadership to create meaningful change. Recognized by the Senate of the State of California for her contributions to women’s empowerment, Darlene continues to inspire and uplift communities through her vision, dedication, and unwavering commitment to social impact.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
• Leadership Essentials Certificate
• Grant Seeking Essentials
• Mental Health First Aid USA
• Psychological First Aid
• Mandated Reporting: Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse and Neglect in California
• Child Abuse & Neglect Mandated Reporter Training
• Mandated Reporting: Child abuse and Neglect
• Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED
• Grant Seeking Essentials Certificate
• University of San Diego - MA
• Certificate of Recognition - Senate of the State of California
• Jewish Family Service of San Diego
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to God and the guidance of my mentors, whose support and wisdom have been instrumental in my journey.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to never be afraid to ask questions or make mistakes. I’ve learned that mistakes are often our greatest teachers, and asking questions opens the door to growth, understanding, and new opportunities.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to clearly understand your “why” and keep it at the forefront of everything you do. Let your purpose guide your decisions, fuel your resilience, and inspire you to keep moving forward, even when challenges arise.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is navigating partnerships and regulatory requirements in the U.S. market. At the same time, this has created an opportunity to engage more deeply with the private sector, which allows for innovative collaborations and new avenues for growth.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are teamwork and collaboration. I believe that meaningful progress and lasting impact come from working together, sharing ideas, and supporting one another toward common goals.
Locations
United Women of East Africa Support Team
El Cajon, CA 92021