International Burundian Women Organization (IBWO)
My name is Victoria Irambona. I am the Visionary and “ Co-Founder” along with Mrs Izera Mazambo Joy”who resides in Australia Association. We are a nonprofit organization based in the USA and many other nations.
One of the known problems we face today as Burundians is the attack on our youth and young generation. Every week we are hearing of a niece, nephew, son, daughter etc. getting into some sort of trouble with their parent pleading to the community for help. These issue that they are facing are in direct relation to the lack of knowledge in the Burundian culture and traditions. For the better future of our next generation, we must act in addressing this raising concern. We have set an action plan that shall be a steppingstone in resolving this matter statewide. However, I cannot tackle this issue myself, that is why I am coming forward on behalf of the organization to ask that you stand with us to work to save our youth.
We are a global team of Burundians who have come together with a common spirit and shared commitment to instill the cultural values of our homeland among our young youth who have lost touch of their roots. We are burdened by the issues our young generation are facing with the transition of immigrating to a new land while keeping their motherland heritage.
We launched in November 2023 with a set action plan that will equip our youth worldwide with tools to make better life decisions as well as reinstate and maintain the cultural values in hopes of a better future generation.
We are a nonprofit organization who have already established a footprint in Australia, USA, France, Netherlands and Canada.
Our vision is simple yet profound, to support one another as parents and care givers in guiding our youth towards a dignified future.
We aim to shield them from a disruptive life of crime, drugs, alcohol and incarceration.
Most importantly, we aim to instill in them our strong cultural values that have earned Burundi its respect and will serve as pillars for a better future.
We endeavour to collaborate with our communities and experts to make this vision a reality.
At IBWO, our primary mission is to ensure that the vibrant values of our homeland remain alive and thriving even when far from its shores. To accomplish this, we will enlist role models within our community to inspire the younger generation by sharing their positive experiences and provide mentorship for youth and young parents on how to make their migrating transition as smooth as possible.
We are committed to ensure we provide our community with the best support which is why we are working with community health care professionals who will equip parents and young people with tools and resources to build healthier relationships.
Through education and community, IBWO aims to redirect and protect youth from jail, deportation, foster care and death by using the community to teach our youth of their strong tradition, giving them a feeling of support and belonging.
Our strength lies in the unwavering belief that every Burundian, particularly our youth possesses the capacity to learn and embrace our culture as well as uphold our values. In doing so, they earn self respect and respect for the community.
We draw strength from our diverse community by embracing all cultures, traditions and way of living. This collective effort will shield us from destructive behaviours that may lead to substance abuse, criminal records and separation from our families.
Founder/Director Izera Mazambo is based in Australia whilst Co-founder Victoria Irambona resides in USA
We are a worldwide organization with members across the globe