“Yesterday, I had the privilege of sitting down with Lusia Akilimali in her cozy Springdale home. Her laughter echoed warmly as she cradled her two-month-old grandbaby, and her stories painted a picture of resilience, hard work, and the transformative power of community.”
– Khalid Ahmadzai
A Personal Connection
I first met the Kalulu family in 2018, shortly after they arrived in Northwest Arkansas. We were neighbors in Fayetteville’s Lightbearers Apartments, and I had the unique honor of watching their journey unfold. From the start, Lusia’s resilience, kindness, and unwavering faith stood out. She embodies the strength and spirit of a thriving community builder.
A Journey Rooted in Resilience
Lusia’s story began in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where she and her husband were forced to flee during the Second Congo War in 1998. Seeking safety, they rebuilt their lives in Kenya, raising five children and adopting two more.
“We worked hard to survive,” Lusia recalled. “I ran a small hair salon and sold vegetables to support our family. It wasn’t easy, but we made it work through faith and determination.”
For nearly 20 years, they endured the challenges of displacement. In 2018, their lives changed when they were accepted into the Refugee Resettlement Program and prepared to start anew in the United States.
“When we were told we were flying to Los Angeles, we thought we’d be living there,” Lusia said, laughing at the memory. “But it was just a one-night stop on our way to Arkansas.”
A Community That Opens Doors
Arriving in Arkansas, Lusia and her family faced the daunting task of rebuilding their lives. The chilly Fayetteville winter added to their challenges, but they found warmth and support through Canopy and other individuals.
The First United Methodist Church, acting as their co-sponsor (now called Circle of Welcome), helped them navigate their new environment. “They cooked for us, helped us settle in, and even came to the airport to welcome us,” Lusia shared with gratitude.
Hard Work and New Beginnings
Determined to provide for her family, through Canopy’s employment program, Lusia quickly secured a job at a poultry company, handling physically demanding tasks like leg deboning. “It wasn’t easy, but I wasn’t afraid of hard work,” she said.
With encouragement from Canopy’s Career Advancement Program team, Lusia began pursuing her dream of becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). “I was hesitant because of my English, but they believed in me,” she said. With Canopy’s support, she enrolled at Petra Allied Health Inc., where Canopy provided everything she needed—books, uniforms, and fees.
Making an Impact
In 2019, after earning her CNA certificate, Lusia began working at Butterfield Trail Village, a long-term care facility. Her dedication and compassion quickly made her an indispensable team member.
“It’s more than a job to me,” she explained. “Helping people is my passion.”
Her commitment shone even brighter during the COVID-19 pandemic. While it was scary time, Lusia stayed. “I couldn’t abandon the residents,” she said. Her exceptional service earned her recognition from her employer, a testament to her unwavering dedication.
A Family Thriving in Arkansas
Lusia’s story isn’t just about her; it’s about her family’s success. Her children are excelling in their pursuits—one is studying civil engineering, another is advancing in mechanical engineering and has joined the National Guard.
“They’re building a brighter future,” she said proudly. As a grandmother, she finds joy in nurturing the next generation while cherishing the journey her family has taken together.
Gratitude and a Vision for Giving Back
Lusia is quick to acknowledge the support she’s received from Canopy. “Canopy has been like family to us,” she said. “They’ve helped with everything—employment, transportation, and even emotional support when we needed it. Five years later, they’re still here for us.”
She also credits the broader Northwest Arkansas community. “This place is special,” she said. “People open their hearts and hands to help.”
Looking to the future, Lusia dreams of opening a daycare to support newly arrived families and starting a business to assist families in Congo and Kenya. “I’ve been helped so much,” she said. “Now, I want to give back—to help others like me find their way.”
Her advice to new refugees? “Work hard, stay positive, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. And when you can, lend a hand to someone else.”
Small Steps, Big Dreams
As we wrapped up, Lusia shared a Swahili proverb: “Haba haba hujaza kibaba”—small steps fill the jar. Her journey is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when individuals and communities come together.
Through every challenge, Lusia Akilimali shines as an example of resilience, determination, and the transformative power of kindness. Her story inspires us all to take small steps toward building a better, more compassionate world.
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