Rose Mapendo

Rose Mapendo (born 1963) is a Congolese human rights activist. She founded the Rose Mapendo Foundation with the mission to empower the women of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, and Burundi to rise above their circumstances and unite to bring peace to their region.

Biography

Early life Rose Mapendo was born in Mulenge, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in 1963. Tutsi Christian family. Raised for marriage and motherhood according to her family's culture, Mapendo never went to school. At this time, she was pregnant and sick. While at the camp, Rose gave birth to twins on the floor with other prisoners, including seven of her children, present.

Life in the United States and humanitarian projects While in the United States, Mapendo saved money to send to the widows of refugees. She has also influenced others to follow suit. They study at the local schools and universities, worship at the local church and work in various fields. 2008 - CNN Hero 2009 - Winner of the United Nations Humanitarian of the Year Award