Phoibe Nyrumbe

New American of the Month

Phoibe Nyrumbe

Wanting a better life runs deep in my family’s desires. My father and mother immigrated to the United States in search of opportunities that they did not have in Congo. I was born in a refugee camp in Uganda and we moved to the United States when I was ten. I started school and had a lot more than math and reading to learn as we navigated an entirely new culture. I love to learn and took up the challenge. This May, I was the first female in my lineage to ever graduate high school. My aspirations are to go to college and continue to strive for the better life my parents crossed an ocean to find.

Education literally came knocking at my door, through a man who has become a friend, Pastor Stanish. He introduced my family to CFNA. This opened doors which enabled me to meet people who are in the same circumstances as me and gave my family hope and relief knowing that we are not alone. I’ve met people who also have gone through the same processes that I went through, when I first arrived in the United States. This pushes my desire to help others.

CFNA is a home to my family. When my siblings and I need help with homework, or if my parents needed any cleaning supplies or clothing, we knew where to go. I recall my junior year when I failed the ACT test, I was struggling, stressed and overwhelmed. I told Mr. Albers and he helped me. When I went to take it again, I was more confident, less stressed and did much better.

CFNA has been a blessing to my family educationally, emotionally and spiritually. I’m truly grateful to be part of CFNA. In particular, I’m thankful for the internship they gave me this summer.  It has presented me with an opportunity to volunteer my support on behalf of other families whose story I understand from my own experiences.

This year, I begin my freshman year of college. It’s a big step as I will be leaving town and it will feel a little like going to a new country. But I have confidence now and am encouraged by the support of those back home as I step through these new, unknown doors. My plan is to earn a degree that will enable me to serve others who need help, the kind of help that CFNA gave me.

Psalm 115:14-15 May the Lord give you increase, you and your children! May you be blessed by the Lord, who made heaven and earth!

By Phoibe Nyrumbe