Bridging Generations: Why the First Generation of Congolese Immigrants Must Mentor the Second in Civic Engagement

By Dr. Ngoie Joel Nshisso

As the Congolese immigrant population in the United States continues to grow, the role of the first generation becomes ever more critical. These pioneers—who left their homeland with hopes of better opportunities and a safer, more stable life—carry a unique responsibility: to mentor the second generation in civic engagement. Civic engagement is more than voting; it encompasses participating in public life, understanding American institutions, advocating for justice, and contributing to the welfare of both the American and Congolese communities.

The success of this intergenerational mission rests on three key pillars: the family, religious institutions, and the broader community.

Family: The Foundation of Identity and Purpose

The home is the first school of civic responsibility. The first generation must be intentional in teaching their children the values that define both Congolese culture—respect for elders, communal responsibility, and perseverance—and American democratic ideals such as equality, freedom, and justice. 

Children of Congolese im- migrants often grow up navi-gating two worlds: the rich traditions of their heritage and the fast-paced, individualistic American society. When parents engage their children in conversations about current events, the importance of voting, and the meaning of

community service, they plant seeds of responsibility and belonging.

When youth see their parents attending school board meetings, speaking up in local town halls, or assisting others through nonprofit work, they begin to understand that citizenship is active, not passive.

Religious Institution: A Platform for Values and Leadership

For many Congolese families, churches are more than places of worship—they are cultural hubs, safe spaces, and moral compasses. Faith communities are uniquely positioned to nurture civic values in youth, using Biblical and ethical teachings to draw connections between faith and public responsibility.

Churches can organize voter education campaigns, sponsor leadership development programs for youth, and create forums where young people can discuss social issues affecting their neighborhoods. Pastors and church elders—often respected figures—can serve as mentors who model integrity, justice, and civic virtue. Through Bible studies, choir groups, or youth ministries, the second generation can learn to apply their faith to the challenges of real-world citizenship.

Community: A Launchpad for Engagement and Action

Community-based organiza-tions (CBOs) and diaspora networks offer a bridge between generations and between cultures. The first generation must collaborate with local nonprofits, educa-tional institutions, and civic groups to create inclusive spaces for youth leadership and empowerment.

Mentorship programs, intern-ships, and community service projects are powerful tools for fostering belonging and civic readiness. Through these experiences, Congolese American youth learn to organize, advocate, and lead. The first generation can help by sharing their migration stories, their struggles with the U.S. system, and the importance of staying engaged—not only for personal advancement but for collective progress.

Above all, those among us who have succeeded—whether in education, business, or professional careers—must not distance themselves from our youth. Success should not be a wall that separates generations, but a bridge that brings them together. Our young people need to see that greatness is possible for them too. They need role models who are accessible, relatable, and willing to walk beside them.

Likewise, the second generation must resist the temptation to reject or avoid the first generation because of its limitations—be they language barriers, outdated customs, or past mistakes. The lived experiences of their parents and elders are not to be discarded but honored as a source of resilience, sacrifice, and cultural strength. Wisdom often comes wrapped in imperfection. Building a strong future requires reconciliation, humility, and mutual respect between generations.

To the Second Generation: Education Is Your Superpower

Dear sons and daughters of the diaspora—although life may surprise you with open doors and unexpected success, never forget this one truth: education is the magic key. In this area, let the sky be your only limit.

You live in a country where doors to learning, technology, and leadership are wide open in ways the first generation could not even dream of. You are in classrooms and on campuses that your parents could only admire from a distance. Use that access with purpose.

You will be competing with peers who have deep roots in this land—many of whom inherit privileges, wealth, and networks that you may not. But do not be discouraged.

Your education is your voice. It is your leverage. It is your passport to dignity, influence, and lasting impact.

Study relentlessly. Take your seat in lecture halls and boardrooms with confidence. Prove to yourself and the world, again and again, that your background is not a limitation but a unique asset.

The Political Dimension: From Voters to Leaders

Political engagement is an area where Congolese Americans can no longer remain silent or invisible. But here’s a hard truth: you cannot dream of being elected to office if you haven’t first learned to vote. Voting is the entry point into the political process. It teaches responsibility, builds awareness, and opens doors to representation. If we want to see Congolese Americans holding office, sitting on school boards, city councils, or even in Congress one day, we must begin with consistent voter participation and civic education at the grassroots level.

Voting is not only a right; it is a civic duty. And it is our collective task, especially the first generation, to ensure that the second generation understands its power and uses it.

FICE: A Platform for Real Empowerment, Not Just Celebration

Too often, the only occasions where first and second-generation Congolese meet are social events—funerals, weddings, and parties. While cultural traditions and celebrations are important, they must not be the only common ground. FICE (Forum International des Congolais de l’Étranger) seeks to change that narrative.

FICE aims to be the platform where Congolese from all generations come together not just to mourn, to dance, or to eat—but to debate, to reflect, to strategize, and to empower. Through conferences, mentorship initiatives, policy roundtables, and leadership forums, FICE offers a space where ideas are exchanged, identities are affirmed, and action is taken.

This movement must not be confined to one country or city. These actions should be replicated and coordinated across the diaspora—from Washington to Brussels, from Montreal to Johannesburg—to build a dynamic and unified global Congolese voice.

A Call to Action—At Home and Abroad

To the first generation of Congolese immigrants in the U.S.: your journey is not finished. You have built churches, sent money home, earned degrees, and raised families. Now, you must help your children claim their voice in the civic life of America.

To the second generation: rise with courage and clarity. Use the privileges available to you—especially education—to exceed every expectation. But don’t walk this road alone. Stay connected to your roots. Learn from the first generation, even with its flaws. Honor your heritage while building your future.

To those who have succeeded—academically, professionally, or financially—do not isolate yourselves. Come back to the community. Mentor the next generation. Invest in their leadership. The future of our presence in America depends on this shared mission.

At the same time, leaders in the Congo—governmental, civic, and religious—must stop viewing the diaspora as outsiders or political opponents. We are still Congolese. We are still family. And many of us are committed to contributing to the development of our homeland. Congolese institutions should engage their diaspora, recognize our value, and partner with us in mutual respect and unity.

Mentorship is not a luxury—it is a necessity. Education is not an option—it is a duty. Civic engagement is not a gesture—it is our legacy. Let FICE be the space where this transformation begins.

To join the journey : 

call at 704-670-4465

Email: ficeusa@ficeclub.com

visit: ficeclub.com