Stephanie Nehema
Quick Facts
Age: 20
Pronouns: She/her
Place of birth: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Major: Environmental Science
Notable: International student
Other languages: French and Lingala
Transfer Institution: Associate of Arts and Science, Bellevue College
“Civility is treating ourselves and others with respect and compassion, sometimes prioritizing the greater good over individual interests. It means treating others the way you would like them to treat you.”
Service & Work:
● Social Responsibility Representative, Associated Student Government of Bellevue College (ASGBC) August 2023-June 2024
● Student Leader, Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship (XA) September 2022- June 2023
● Public Relations Officer, Congolese Student Success Association (CSSA) September 2022- June 2023
● Executive Committee Officer. United Nations Association (UNA) March 2023- June 2023
● Senate Vice Speaker, Student Senate January 2024-June 2024
● Chair, Student Environmental Sustainability Funds (SESF) September 2023- June 2024
Awards & Honors:
Umoja Student Leadership Award
Eastside Windermere Foundation Award
New Young Scholars Outstanding nominee
Bellevue College Scholarship award
Honor Society
Stephanie’s Story
I am Stephanie A. Nehema, born on November 28, 2003, in the Democratic Republic of Congo. As the eldest child in my family, I have always felt the immense pressure to succeed, not just for myself but for my younger siblings and even my extended family. This responsibility has shaped my journey, driving me to pursue a path marked by determination, leadership, and a commitment to service.
I came to the US in September 2021 and started a completely new adventure. I was confronted with a new challenge: the language barrier and cultural difference. My English was limited; navigating life in a new country was difficult. However, I held onto one word that I knew well: “YES.” I said yes to the challenge of succeeding in a foreign land, despite feeling lost and unsure. With my mother's words, "Go and make an impact," echoing in my mind, I embarked on this journey with determination.
At Bellevue College, where I earned an Associate of Arts and Sciences degree with a Sustainability Concentration, I’ve found that being a student is more than just earning a degree. It’s about making connections, building others up through service, and embracing challenges that push me to grow. I became involved in every single school organization possible, joined different clubs, and volunteered at many activities and events. I joined the student government, which made me fall in love with advocacy and public speaking. From there, I knew more than ever that my voice counted and that I needed to use it for those who could not speak for themselves.
Advocacy and social service are at the core of who I am. From a young age, I have been driven by a deep sense of responsibility to make a difference in the lives of others, especially those who are marginalized and underserved. My experiences, both in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the United States, have shown me the power of standing up for what is right and the profound impact that dedicated service can have on individuals and communities.
One day, I aspire to work for the United Nations, where I can take my passion for advocacy to a global stage. I want to be a voice for those who are often unheard, to champion causes that matter, and to help shape policies that will lead to a more just and equitable world. My dream is to contribute to the efforts of the United Nations in addressing global challenges, from poverty and inequality to environmental sustainability and human rights.
Mission:
As the firstborn in my family, I've always felt a sense of responsibility toward those around me. Whether it's leading my family or contributing to daily life, I strive to create a better environment. Over time, I've observed things that often go unnoticed by others.
My mission is twofold: to address inequality and empower those who haven't had a chance to speak up and to advocate for environmental justice on a global scale. I want to increase global awareness about environmental challenges faced by different communities, especially African communities that are usually left out in decision making. This means bringing attention to the big contrast between developed regions like the United States and underdeveloped regions, such as my home country, the Democratic Republic of Congo, in order to bring attention to these differences in the hopes of causing change.
Goals:
My personal goals align with this mission. I seek to obtain education and knowledge, to learn recipes for greatness, and to engage globally.
Obtain Education and Knowledge
I'm committed to obtaining a degree and acquiring knowledge through education. Learning from the best, maybe at a prestigious university like Harvard, will equip me with the tools needed to effect change.
Learn Recipes for Greatness:
I want to understand what makes institutions like Harvard excellent. Once I've cracked that recipe, I'll apply it to my country. Empowering others with the same knowledge is part of my vision.
Engage Globally
Working with international organizations, including the United Nations, is on my horizon. These platforms will allow me to contribute to global solutions. Together, we can create a more just and sustainable world.
