Success Stories
Celebrating the achievements and contributions of our community members who are making a difference through innovation, arts, education, and entrepreneurship.
Innocent Magambi
Arrived at Dzaleka in 2003, Innocent's journey began with a scholarship to study theology through an international church in Lilongwe. He founded There is Hope (TIH), which now employs 60 people and assists over 300 individuals annually.
In 2007, he made the bold decision to relinquish his refugee status to expand his impact. After leading TIH for 15 years, he transitioned to lead Inua Advocacy, continuing his work for refugee rights.
Key Achievements:
- Founded There is Hope (TIH)
- Employs 60 people
- Assists 300+ individuals annually
- Extended medical support to 52,000+ at Dzaleka Health Centre
- Established Inua Advocacy
Menes la Plume (Trésor Nzengu Mpauni)
A Congolese poet and musician who has become a symbol of resilience and hope for refugees in Malawi. Through his art, he has empowered refugees and promoted cultural understanding.
His crowning achievement is the Tumaini Festival, the world's first music and arts festival held in a refugee camp, which has significantly boosted Malawi's tourism industry and the camp's informal economy.
Impact Areas:
- Founded Tumaini Festival
- Cultural preservation
- Tourism development
- Economic empowerment
- Arts advocacy
Remy Gakwaya
A self-taught computer programmer who revolutionized tech education in Dzaleka through TakenoLAB. His vision expanded beyond technology when he founded RELON Malawi, creating a network for all refugee-led organizations.
Achievements:
- Founded TakenoLAB
- Established RELON Malawi
- Tech education pioneer
- Community network builder
- Digital skills advocate
More Success Stories
Mirash Films
Founded by Raphael Ndabaga, this film production company has earned recognition for its compelling storytelling and technical excellence, winning 6 awards at national and international film festivals in Malawi between 2023 and 2024.
Salama Africa
Founded by Freddy Farini, Toussaint Farini, Alain Tenta and Iris Nganji, Salama Africa has become a cornerstone of Malawi's dance scene. Their performances alongside well-known Malawian artists and multiple national awards showcase the power of cultural expression.
Amahoro Burundian Drummers
Started in 2006 by Stanislas Nshimirimana, a Burundian refugee with a rich multicultural background, Amahoro has become a cultural ambassador. Their performances at major festivals, corporate events, and presidential galas spread a message of peace and cultural heritage preservation.
Fountain of Hope
Founded by Marcel Chiruza, who brought his community development expertise from DRC, Fountain of Hope has made significant contributions to education and income-generation. Their work benefits both refugees and Malawians, demonstrating the power of inclusive development.