From Nyamata to the World: Maranyundo Alumnae Stories
Maranyundo graduates Kellia Karambizi (MGS ‘17) and Merci Mukasafari (MGS ‘21), recently graduated from Johns Hopkins University and Wellesley College. Katia Nkurunziza (MGS ‘22) is graduating in 2027 from Minerva University. They are continuing to build impressive academic and professional careers while remaining committed to serving their communities. Read below to be inspired!
Kellia Karambizi (MGS ‘17) recently graduated with her Master's degree in Microbiology and Immunology at Johns Hopkins University. Her interest in immunology and public health grew during the COVID-19 pandemic, and she hopes to continue research in respiratory diseases while exploring future Ph.D. in Immunology.
She had attended Wheaton College, where she studied Biochemistry on the pre-med track. Inspired by her interests in physics, biology, and chemistry at Maranyundo, she pursued biochemistry to better understand the human body and human health.
When asked about the impact of MGS, Kellia states “So much has been given to me that I want to give back.” Kellia credits MGS with shaping her through its core values of leadership, responsibility, and respect. These principles continue to guide her academic and professional journey and inspire her commitment to serving others. Kellia hopes to bring STEM mentorship to MGS, encouraging the next generation to pursue impactful careers in public health.
Kellia will continue her research in respiratory health and hopes to eventually earn a Ph.D. in biomedical research and public health while making science more accessible to communities, particularly in Rwanda.
Merci Mukasafari joyously holding her diploma in Economics from Wellesley College.
Merci Mukasafari (MGS ‘21) graduated from Wellesley College in May with her bachelor's degree in Economics. She chose economics because of its versatility and its connections to development, public policy, and finance, and enjoyed exploring how economic systems can address real-world challenges.
Merci credits MGS with helping her discover her leadership potential and providing a foundation of discipline and self-confidence. Her advice to current students is “to explore and engage in everything around them” and never be afraid to learn through mistakes. She hopes to be in Rwanda for the opening of the MTLC.
During her time at MGS, Merci took on several leadership roles, including prefect, Vice President of the Debate Club, President of the Economics Club, and class leader. These experiences helped her build confidence, leadership skills, and a strong sense of responsibility that continue to shape her today.
Today, Merci works at Mobiwiz Inc. and plans to pursue a Master's degree in Innovation and Management at Tufts University. She hopes to become an entrepreneur and create innovative solutions that make a meaningful impact.
Katia Nkurunziza is graduating next spring 2027 from Minerva University with a degree in Computer Science and Statistics.
Katia Nkurunziza (MGS ‘22) is a rising senior at Minerva University in San Francisco. She is majoring in Computer Science and Statistics.
Katia credits Maranyundo with providing resources that helped prepare her for college, including access to technology and guidance through the college application process. Katia was part of the very first high school cohort (S5) to go through the Bridge2Rwanda bootcamp (Bridge2rwanda.org). The college counseling office, alongside Rwandan students from Bridge2Rwanda, helped edit her essays and applications, ultimately helping her secure admission to Minerva University.
Leadership opportunities at Maranyundo also had a lasting impact on Katia. As President of the Science Club, she worked alongside students with interests in chemistry, physics, and other scientific fields, creating opportunities to learn beyond the classroom. She also appreciated being trusted with responsibilities that contributed to the daily life of the school, experiences that strengthened her leadership and professional skills.
While attending a Maranyundo event in 2023, Katia met Kristin Foss, a former board member now sustainer, who shared insights about working at Salesforce. That connection lasted; Kristin later referred Katia to an internship role at Salesforce, demonstrating how the relationships built through MGS stay with you for a long time.
The alumnae credit MGS with helping them build confidence, leadership skills, and a strong sense of purpose. They encourage current students to embrace opportunities, stay open to new experiences, and take full advantage of the resources available to them. As they continue their journeys, both remain closely connected to Maranyundo and are excited to give back to future generations of students. We are so proud of all their accomplishments and are excited to see what they continue to achieve.
