Rehani Akenga’s dedication to community service has followed him from across the Atlantic Ocean. 

Growing up, giving back to his community was a core memory for Rehani.

In 2013, he left Congo for a refugee camp in Malawi, where he volunteered in various community initiatives. In 2021, he would arrive in Canada, where he would continue to serve his community. 

The path to success wasn’t easy: Rehani had to face a high cost of living and food insecurity, forcing him to seek employment to support his family. Despite these challenges, Rehani persevered by collecting food and money for prisoners in Maula Prison and by participating in litter pick-ups in the city. 

In 2022, he was awarded a Strength through Diversity award as part of our 25th Annual RBC Spirit Awards. 

Since then, Rehani has continued to be an active member in the community while studying at the University of Ottawa. He volunteers with Shepherds of Good Hope, Knights of Columbus and has joined the Ottawa Police Youth Advisory Committee. 

Rehani is also currently working with our Ottawa Youth Engagement Committee, a group which aims to engage youth in municipal government decision-making.

The advice and encouragement Rehani received from community members led him to feel even more motivated to support his community, he said.

“It was an extraordinary step in my life,” Rehani said. “Astonishingly, I felt motivated and continued to be active in Ottawa and Canada. Explaining in words how colourful that day was will not be enough.”