A refugee’s journey from survival to belonging | Clement Nsenga Kigugu | TEDxPortsmouth

In this raw, moving talk, Clement Nsenga Kigugu, a Rwandan refugee turned U.S. community leader, takes us on his unforgettable journey from war zones to snowy New Hampshire. He shares the trauma of leaving his family behind, the shock of adjusting to a new culture and climate, and the profound loneliness of starting over in silence. Through humor, heartbreak, and hope, Clement gives a voice to millions of refugees—and challenges us to meet them not with judgment, but with empathy. Watch this if you’ve ever wondered: How would I survive if I had to begin again… alone?
Clement, a former refugee from Rwanda, is the founder and executive director of Overcomers Refugee Services, which he established in 2013. His organization assists settled refugees in helping newcomers become successful, contributing members of American society. Clement also serves as the Senior Pastor of The Overcomers Church of God. A father of six and grandfather of four, he speaks five languages and holds a degree in Management from the Université Libre de Kigali. Additionally, Clement is a trained and certified medical interpreter. He is also the recipient of NH’s Top 40 Influential Business Leaders and Business Leader of the Year 2025 award from the Chamber of Commerce.
Clement, a former refugee from Rwanda, is the founder and executive director of Overcomers Refugee Services, established in 2013. His organization helps settled refugees assist newcomers in adapting to their new lives, enabling them to heal and thrive as active citizens. With extensive experience supporting refugees, immigrants, and families in need, Clement also serves as Senior Pastor of The Overcomers Church of God. A father of six and grandfather of four, he speaks five languages and holds a degree in Management from the Université Libre de Kigali. Clement is also a trained and certified medical interpreter. He is also the recipient of NH’s Top 40 Influential Business Leaders. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx