Announcing the 2023 Refugee Congress Excellence Award and Youth Excellence Award winners
We are thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2023 Refugee Congress Delegate and Youth Excellence Awards: Paul Mwingwa and Dana Aljubouri!
Paul Mwingwa is the Refugee Congress Delegate for Montana. He is a Caseworker Assistant and serves as a member of the Refugees Advisory Council at the International Rescue Committee. Paul has been an active leader in his community, advocating for refugee and immigrant rights with elected officials and building relationships with Missoula’s City Council and Mayor’s offices. He has also organized community events and participated in public speaking engagements, including a Welcoming Week discussion on how Montana can be a place of refuge.
"In accepting this award, I commit to amplifying the voices of refugees and advocating for policies that foster inclusivity, understanding, and support. Together, we can create a world where every individual, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to society, where no one is forced to flee, and where compassion knows no borders,” said Paul.
Dana Aljubouri is a fervent youth activist, aspiring writer, and an unwavering advocate for social justice and inclusivity, based in Jacksonville, Florida. As a former refugee from Iraq, Dana's passion is shaped by personal experience. With impactful leadership roles in youth development and storytelling, she empowers marginalized communities, fostering an environment where diverse youth identities and backgrounds are all welcome. Dana's publications in StoryCorps; USA for UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency; and Florida Times-Union showcase her influential voice and commitment to making a difference.
“As a former refugee from Iraq, receiving the Refugee Congress Award is a deeply meaningful acknowledgment of my journey and commitment to social justice. My leadership roles in youth development and storytelling are fueled by personal experience, and this award amplifies my efforts in fostering an inclusive environment for diverse youth. The Storytellers Collective trainings have been instrumental in promoting my refugee story and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities. This recognition not only validates my advocacy but also empowers me to continue being a dynamic force for positive change and community engagement,” said Dana.
These individuals are real community leaders who made great strides last year to advance advocacy and pursue their goals, both in their communities and nationwide. Their work ensures that refugees, asylees, and other forcibly displaced people, continue to lead decisions on issues impacting their communities. We are grateful for their efforts and commitment to our shared mission and values.
The Refugee Congress Delegate Excellence Award recipients are nominated and selected by their peers for their dedication to advocacy, community engagement, community building, and mentorship. They have gone above and beyond as leaders in their communities. Their innovation, time, and dedication to Refugee Congress has helped all of the communities we represent to thrive.
The Refugee Congress Youth Excellence Award is awarded to a young person or group of young people who are giving back to their communities, representing a new generation of refugee leaders. They have demonstrated an early commitment to uplifting others who have been forcibly displaced, and a passion for promoting the wellbeing and dignity of all.
