Standing with Congo: Updates from the Ground

Rising Tensions in Congo.

Stand With Us In Solidarity.

M23 Rebels Occupy Goma, Forcing 6.9 Million to Flee
Families torn apart. Communities uprooted. Futures left in limbo.

Yet, amidst the turmoil, hope endures. Our Club of Leaders students continue to dream, learn, and serve—each a symbol of resilience and a brighter future for Congo.

Now, more than ever, your support is crucial. Together, we can:

Empower youth leadership and Create pathways for peaceful change

Despite the national upheaval, our dedicated team—Mr. Pombo, Mr. Chancard, Mr. Dany, and Dr. Jerry—stands firm, ensuring the Club of Leaders remains a beacon of hope.

Together, we stand with Congo.


Meet the Team Driving Change in DRC

Mr. Chançard: A Champion for Youth Leadership in DRC

With two decades of teaching experience and a deep commitment to youth development, Mr. Chançard has dedicated his career to shaping the next generation of leaders. His journey with Malembe Rise began while teaching at Collège des Savoirs, where he spent eight years refining his craft while also participating in Malembe Rise’s professional development program. His dedication led him to join the organization full-time, and now, in his third year as a staff member, he leads the Club of Leaders with remarkable intention and purpose, believing wholeheartedly in the transformative power of youth leadership.

His expertise and passion earned him a place on the DRC National Team for the Brookings study, where he played a key role in Ministry of Education workshops, developing evaluation tools and contributing to groundbreaking research. His impact extends beyond the DRC, with his participation in international education conferences in Gambia, bringing valuable insights to national and regional initiatives.

For Mr. Chançard, leadership starts from within.
"Malembe Rise has taught me to transform those around me by starting with myself," he reflects.
This belief, paired with his passionate and purposeful teaching style, guides his work with the Club of Leaders, helping young people discover their own potential for positive change.

Beyond his professional life, Mr. Chançard cherishes his family. He and his wife recently welcomed their newest child, Jerry, bringing even more joy to their home.

His story is a testament to the power of education, leadership, and unwavering commitment to community transformation.


Mr. Pombo: A Visionary Educator Shaping Future Leaders

With over three decades in education, Mr. Pombo brings both wisdom and a transformative vision to his role at Malembe Rise. His 13-year journey began as a teacher at Collège des Savoirs, where he embraced Malembe Rise’s innovative approach to education and leadership development. Now in his third year as a full-time staff member of Malembe Rise DRC, he remains committed to shaping the next generation of leaders.

Mr. Pombo’s influence extends beyond the classroom. As an active participant in DRC Education Ministry workshops, he played a key role in study preparation, question development, and the creation of evaluation tools—contributing to the advancement of national education initiatives.

Despite his extensive experience, Mr. Pombo considers his work with Malembe Rise to be the most impactful of his career.
“One hour of work with Malembe Rise does more to improve the lives of families, communities, and the world than a thousand years of experience elsewhere,” he reflects.
This deep conviction fuels his dedication to youth empowerment and community transformation.

At home, Mr. Pombo shares his passion for positive change with his wife and six children, embodying the belief that true education extends far beyond the classroom. His leadership and unwavering commitment continue to inspire both students and educators alike.


Mr. Dany: Cultivating Leadership, Capturing Impact

With 15 years in education, Mr. Dany’s journey has been deeply shaped by his 11-year partnership with Malembe Rise, where he has experienced firsthand the power of transformative leadership development. His story reflects the organization's dual mission—unlocking youth potential while fostering professional excellence in educators.

As both a facilitator in the Club of Leaders and Malembe Rise’s photographer and videographer, Mr. Dany plays a vital role in capturing the essence of the movement. Through his lens, he documents stories of growth, resilience, and leadership, bringing the mission of Malembe Rise to life.

"Malembe Rise has made me a source of blessings for my family and community,"
he shares.

His transformation extends beyond the classroom, encompassing personal growth, professional development, and community impact. His journey is a testament to the belief that investing in Congolese youth creates ripples of sustainable change that extend far beyond individual lives.

At home, Mr. Dany shares his passion for education and empowerment with his wife and six children, embodying Malembe Rise’s philosophy that true education balances professional achievement, personal growth, and community service. His dedication to helping young people recognize their strengths continues to inspire students and colleagues alike.


Leading Through Challenges: Dr. Jerry Kindomba’s Quiet Force of Hope

Amidst the complexities of Congo’s landscape, Dr. Jerry Kindomba stands as a steady, unwavering force of hope. His leadership with the Club of Leaders is more than a role—it’s a calling. When obstacles arise and challenges mount, Dr. Kindomba remains focused on what matters most: the untapped potential of young people.

Each week, he works tirelessly to keep students curious, engaged, and thinking critically. Moving seamlessly between club meetings and community gatherings, he builds a network of support that turns individual potential into collective strength. Dr. Kindomba doesn’t just lead the Club of Leaders—he cultivates a movement, inspiring communities to recognize the transformative power of investing in youth.

His approach is both deliberate and compassionate. He understands that in difficult times, education is more than just a pathway—it’s a lifeline. It connects students to possibility, to hope, and to a future they can shape. Through his leadership, Dr. Kindomba ensures that even in the most challenging moments, young people continue to rise.


A Joyful Arrival!

Meet baby Jerry!  Mr. Chancard's newest child. If this smile doesn't melt your heart, I don't know what will! Beauty persists!  Take time to find it and celebrate it today!


Love is an action. Never simply a feeling.

~ Bell Hooks

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Meet Ryan Carter