Meet three fearless young refugees who are leaving a positive mark on their communities

According to UNHCR’s 2023 Youth Report, forcibly displaced youth between the ages of 15 to 24 who have fled war, violence and persecution are often thrown into an uncertain world and face heightened risks of sexual and gender-based violence, forced recruitment, exploitation and detention. Sadly, this is the harsh reality for millions of displaced youth around the world.

Despite facing these challenges, refugee youth continue to prove resilient. They are using their experiences, skills and passions to not only inspire others but also to bring about positive change in their communities. Meet three fearless young refugees who are uplifting and empowering others in their host and resettled communities.

Deline

Rwandan refugee Deline Ramiro Yihumutima has accomplished so much at just 23 years old. From her primary education in Kakuma Refugee Camp to her secondary schooling in Eldoret, Kenya, Deline has always been committed to her studies.

"I believe in the power of perseverance and the importance of working towards a better future, no matter the obstacles that may stand in our [refugees'] way," says Deline.

Deline’s hard work and determination paid off when she was awarded the DAFI scholarship from UNHCR and its partner, Windle Trust Kenya. This enabled her to achieve her dreams of studying public relations and advertising.

After earning her degree in journalism and mass communication from Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Deline felt compelled to help others in her host community. She returned to Kakuma and joined the refugee-led organization, Solidarity Initiative for Refugees.

As the Operations and Partnerships Lead, she oversees various community projects and works alongside other agencies and community-based organizations to provide digital education and online opportunities for young women — helping them earn a dignified living.

Outside of her day job, Deline also mentors young girls, promotes social-emotional learning and helps improve environmental education for children and community members.

Joshua*

When Joshua* was just 17 years old, he, his mother and his siblings were forced to flee after gang members threatened to invade their home. Knowing that any resistance could prove fatal, the family left the next morning, crossing the border into Guatemala with little to nothing.

Young refugees, like Joshua, often encounter challenges when trying to find stable employment. But, with the help of UNHCR and FUNDAECO — an NGO dedicated to protecting a natural preserve in southeastern Guatemala and providing livelihood opportunities for displaced individuals — Joshua was able to find work as a maintenance worker.

For the 21-year-old, his work at FUNDAECO is much more than just bringing home a paycheck and providing for his family. Joshua is keenly aware that he is playing a role in something much bigger than himself — the fight to protect dwindling environmental resources.

“When you’re in contact with nature, it becomes so exciting to be able to take care of it. Nature appreciates it,” he says.

As a maintenance worker, Joshua does more than just repair trails and facilities. He has also taken on the role of an unofficial snake handler at the preserve, taking care of the animals on display in the guest center and responding to calls when wild snakes get too close to visitors. He has successfully nursed numerous injured animals back to health and released them back into their natural habitat.

"I love nature," he says. "And I know that what I do is essential not only for me personally but also that it benefits everyone."

*Name changed and country of origin omitted for protection reasons.

Evode 

23-year-old Evode Hakizimana has spent his entire life in the Tongogara refugee camp in Uganda. After completing his studies, Evode started brick molding to support his family.

In early 2019, he was selected by UNHCR to receive training and mentorship at the Social Innovation Academy (SINA) in Uganda for nine months. The program aims to equip young refugees with the tools they need to seek innovative solutions to their challenges.

While enrolled in the program, Evode came up with the idea of creating a project called the Transformation Innovation Hub (TIH) to improve the situation of young refugees in Tongogara. The project strives to empower refugees and disadvantaged local youths to pursue their ideas through social entrepreneurship.

With his motto always in mind — "do it now because later becomes never" — his project has supported the development of nine companies led by young refugees in two years.

In recognition of his hard work and dedication, UNHCR recently appointed him as a UNHCR Global Youth Advisory Council member. This appointment has given Evode a platform to amplify the voices of his counterparts and help them receive the tools they need to thrive.

How you can help…

By becoming a USA for UNHCR monthly donor, you can help ensure refugee youth receive lifesaving aid and are equipped with the resources they need to excel and leave a lasting impact on their communities.