The Congolese Community Of Scranton

Born in Uvira, South Kivu Province of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Ushu Mukelo spent his formative years in the Ugandan refugee camp of Kyangwali, where he attended primary and secondary school before being resettled in the United States. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from the University of Scranton and is fluent in seven languages, including French, Swahili, Lingala, Spanish, and several other East and Central African languages. In his free time, Ushu enjoys storytelling and watching documentaries, passions that reflect his deep connection to history and culture.

Heritier Dunia, originally from Sange in the South Kivu Province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, grew up in the Mayukwayukwa Refugee Camp, where he completed his early education. After resettling in the United States, he earned his Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certification at Fortis Institute of Scranton. Fluent in English, Swahili, Nyanja, Kifulero, and Kirundi, Heritier enjoys sports, reading, and embracing traditional African cultural practices that celebrate his heritage

Born in Uvira, South Kivu Province, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ornella Akimana relocated to Nairobi, Kenya, due to political unrest in eastern DRC. In 2016, she resettled in Scranton, PA, where she has since been an active community member. A dedicated healthcare professional, Ornella volunteers her time assisting refugee families from the DRC through local office support and home visits. Fluent in English, French, Swahili, Kirundi, and Kinyarwanda, she brings invaluable linguistic and cultural expertise to her role as Secretary of the Congolese Community of Scranton.

Born in Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo, Digne Mbinga spent her early years in Kigali, Rwanda, before settling in Scranton, Pennsylvania. A graduate of West Scranton High School, she is now a senior at Marywood University, majoring in Psychology with a minor in Counseling.

Fluent in Swahili, Kinyarwanda, English, and French, Digne also understands multiple East African languages. Beyond her academic pursuits, she is a worship leader and translator at True Worshippers Church, where she combines her passion for music and faith to inspire her generation.

Admin Assistant,

CCS Downtown Office .