Our Team
Madeleine Udahogora, PhD
Board Member
Dr. Madeleine UDAHOGORA, a distinguished Natural Sciences Ph.D. holder, combines cutting-edge research with practical project management in ecosystem restoration and climate change adaptation. Throughout her career, she has bridged the gap between scientific research and implementation, leading large-scale restoration projects and developing innovative climate-resilient strategies. Her expertise spans from coordinating multidisciplinary teams and fostering institutional collaborations to publishing extensively on restoration ecology and climate adaptation. Dr. UDAHOGORA’s significant contributions include developing influential frameworks for ecosystem resilience and creating innovative monitoring systems that have become standard practice in restoration initiatives across various organizations.
Favorite Iradukunda, PhD, MSN, RN, FAAN
Board Memeber
Favorite Iradukunda, PhD, MSN, RN, FAAN, is an assistant professor at the Elaine Marieb College of Nursing, teaching and mentoring graduate and undergraduate students. She is devoted to advancing the holistic well-being of Afro-diasporic women, families, and communities. Her research focuses on the intersection of multiculturalism, immigration, and health outcomes for women and birthing people and on addressing maternal health disparities through community-centered and culturally congruent interventions. Dr. Iradukunda is also dedicated to transforming nursing education through decolonial knowledge co-creation processes. Globally, Dr. Iradukunda has worked at the intersection of nursing education, women’s health, and community health.
Salem Rumuri Nyacyesa
Board Member
I am a Master’s student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, a lifelong science enthusiast with a strong interest in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. Outside of academia, I enjoy playing basketball and watching NBA games (my favorite way to unwind).
Giving back to the community is a core value of mine. As part of the NextGen Initiative, I am passionate about creating opportunities and supporting initiatives that empower disadvantaged youth through education and other meaningful efforts.
Therese Uwamahoro
Board Memeber
Mrs. Therese Uwamahoro is a dynamic entrepreneur and passionate community enthusiast who has dedicated her career to empowering underserved populations through innovative social programs and healthcare initiatives. As the Founder and Executive Director of NextGen Initiative, she works to improve access to quality education and health services for low-income youth in Maine and Rwanda, while simultaneously working for Bridge Support Services LLC and serving as a co-founder of Safe Residential Care LLC. Currently pursuing a degree in Health Science and Psychology at the University of Southern Maine, combined with her experience as a Cardiovascular Technologist and Dental Assistant, Mrs. Uwamahoro brings a comprehensive understanding of healthcare and social services to her work. Her proven track record includes expanding educational support programs to reach over 50 students, improving client outcomes through personalized development programs, and consistently demonstrating her commitment to fostering positive change in both local and international communities.
Make a difference.
Your involvement with NextGen Initiative helps empower young people with the resources they need to succeed—scholarships, mentorship, and vital health programs. By donating, volunteering, or joining our mentorship program, you’re creating opportunities that change lives and strengthen communities in Maine and Rwanda.
