Black History Month: read about the incredible story of Angelique Ruzindana Umunyana

As part of Black History Month, the story of Angélique Ruzindana Umunyana, woman, scientist and mother, unfolds like a vibrant fresco, testifying to the richness and diversity of the experiences of black people in Canada. 

Born in the heart of Rwanda, Angélique carries with her the hopes and dreams of a generation. She remembers with moving clarity her childhood, when reading and hiking with her family already shaped her love of learning and exploration. It was this thirst for knowledge that guided her along the path of education, leading her to earn a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry from the National University of Rwanda. But that was just the beginning. 

The rest of her journey took her far from her native country, to the snowy shores of Quebec, thanks to a scholarship for a Master's degree in Chemistry. This transition, though successful, was not without its challenges. Angélique recalls with a touch of nostalgia and amusement her first meeting with her research supervisor, dressed only in shorts and a tee-shirt, an outfit that perplexed her and illustrated the cultural differences she would learn to navigate. 

Returning to Rwanda after her studies was not the end of her Canadian adventure. Married with two children, she returned to Quebec, this time to pursue a doctorate in microbiology at the Université de Sherbrooke. Her university career, punctuated by successes and opportunities, seemed like a scientific fairy tale. But for Angélique, this was only part of her identity. 

The professional world of Quebec offered her her first position with the Ministry of the Environment, an experience that not only shaped her career vision, but also inspired her to explore more of the vast Canadian landscape. Her decision to move West, in the hope of offering her children a chance to become bilingual, reflects her commitment to family and education, values deeply rooted in her heart. 

Through her varied roles, most notably as President of the Board of Directors of Collège Nordique, Angélique has proven that resilience and adaptability are the keys to success. Her life in Canada, rich in anecdotes and lessons learned, shows a woman who, despite the obstacles, always finds a way to contribute positively to her community and her new homeland. 

Angélique was honoured at the 45th General Assembly of the Fédération franco-ténoise by receiving the Jeanne-Dubé award 2023 in recognition of her commitment to the French language and francophone culture in the NWT.

Angélique Ruzindana Umunyana: reflections on a life of color and hope in Canada 

For Angélique, being black in Canada is an experience tinged with complex nuances, mixing challenges with unshakeable pride. In everyday life, this reality is revealed through the eyes of her children, in interactions with her colleagues, and in the countless moments shared with her community. She confesses that her perception of the challenges faced by black people in Canada is often tempered by memories of her native Rwanda and the tragedies she experienced there. This perspective enables her to measure the progress made, while acknowledging that the road to equality and full recognition still lies ahead. Angélique sees in this struggle not only a duty but also a source of pride: that of contributing, in her own small way, to a Canadian society that is more inclusive and respectful of the diversity of its members. 

As for the advice she could offer on how to make a success of life in Canada, as a black person and more specifically in the Northwest Territories, Angélique insists on the importance of openness and resilience. "Never stay isolated," she advises, stressing the value of networking and community involvement as cornerstones of success. For her, it's crucial to strike a balance between maintaining one's cultural roots and adapting to one's new environment, a duality that enriches rather than divides. Angélique advocates a mix of audacity and caution, encouraging everyone to open up to opportunities while remaining true to their identity. 

Angélique's career path in Canada reflects this philosophy. From her first job with Quebec's Ministry of the Environment to her current position on the Board of Directors of Collège Nordique, she has navigated challenges with remarkable adaptability. Angélique acknowledges the sometimes chaotic nature of her path, marked by decisions guided as much by family imperatives as by a personal quest for meaning and fulfillment. It is in this ability to embrace change and find opportunities for growth that she believes lies the key to professional success in Canada. 

In the face of obstacles and uncertainties, Angélique anchors herself in a maxim that guides and inspires her: "Happiness is continuing to desire what you have," a quote from Saint Augustine that resonates deeply with her values.  

Through the prism of her experience, Angélique Ruzindana Umunyana reminds us that, despite the challenges, being a black person in Canada is an experience marked by pride, struggles, but above all, countless opportunities to make one's voice heard and contribute to building a more just and inclusive society.

Black excellence: a shared vision 

For Angélique, black excellence transcends individual success. It is a collective celebration of identity and contributions to society. She stresses the importance of striking a balance between personal aspiration and cultural enrichment, thus fostering harmonious integration without renouncing one's roots. 

A promising future for black people in Canada 

Angélique dreams of a Canada where pride in African origins is universally shared, and where the citizenship and contributions of black people are fully recognized. She aspires to a future where ties with Africa are celebrated, contributing to the richness of Canada's social fabric. 

Through these reflections, Angélique shares a message of hope and determination, inviting recognition, inclusion and celebration of black diversity and excellence. Her story is a call to build together a future rich in possibilities, where each voice finds its place and its echo in the great Canadian narrative.