From Journalism to Community Development: How the MCD Transformed Jean Hakuzimana’s Career скачать в хорошем качестве

From Journalism to Community Development: How the MCD Transformed Jean Hakuzimana’s Career

After moving to the U.S. in 2018 to pursue his Master’s in Community Development (MCD), Jean Hakuzimana has been using his degree to make a lasting impact in New Hampshire and beyond. Jean transitioned from a decade-long journalism career in Rwanda to a new chapter in community development. Since then, he has earned his MCD, built a career in refugee resettlement, and founded NH SONGA, a community service organization that helps bridge the gap between new Americans and their host communities. His work with NH SONGA earned him the NH Business Review 2024 Best of Business Award and a spot on the New Hampshire 200 list of influential business leaders—recognizing individuals shaping the state’s business, nonprofit, and civic landscape. Today, Jean serves as statewide director of the refugee resettlement program at Ascentria Care Alliance in Concord, NH. He describes his role as “perfectly matching the Community Development Policy and Practice [program].” While earning his degree, Jean continued working at Ascentria, giving him the opportunity to apply community development concepts in real time. Beyond the recognition and accolades, Jean emphasizes the personal and professional value of his degree. “In the long run, I would say it’s paid off. When you are in it, you don’t realize how big it will impact your career afterward... Having that knowledge is a big investment within any framework of career you want to go into.” Learn more, carsey.unh.edu/mcd #community #communitydevelopment #masters