My name is Ciella, and this summer, I have the incredible opportunity to return to Burundi—the country where I was born and raised and the place that shaped so much of who I am. It’s been ten years since I moved to the United States, and I’m deeply honored to go back and serve in the land that holds all my earliest memories, where my mother and many loved ones still live.

I’m currently a student at Evangel University, studying Nonprofit and Social Enterprise with a minor in Marketing. I’ve always been passionate about service and leadership, and that passion was recently recognized when I was inducted into The Order of the Valor—a distinction awarded to students who exemplify leadership, integrity, and a heart for others.

This medical mission with Our Children International, in partnership with Seek and Save Humanity and Jars of Love Community, will be my first time traveling internationally for nonprofit work. While I’ve served with organizations in Kansas City, Missouri, this trip will give me hands-on experience abroad and allow me to earn six college credits as I engage in meaningful work alongside a team of dedicated volunteers.

Most importantly, this journey is deeply personal. I get to give back to the community where I grew up and reconnect with the vibrant culture, traditions, and people that I love. I believe in the power of service to create lasting change, and I’m excited to be part of something that brings hope and healing to others—especially in a place that means so much to me.

Thank you for considering supporting me on this journey. Your generosity helps make this experience possible and fuels a vision that’s bigger than me.

Meet Ciella: A Journey Back to Serve and Inspire

By Our Children International

Meet Ciella: A Journey Back to Serve and Inspire

Help Ciella return to Burundi to serve on a life-changing medical mission and complete her nonprofit studies.