CEO / PDG Centre Francophone du Grand Toronto| Récipiendaire: Ordre de la Pléiade (Officière) et d’Ordre de l’Ontario, “Top 25 Immigrants in Canada, Prix Inclusion (FCFA), Top “100 black women”
From Princess to Refugee: A Journey of Resilience and Dedication
Born as a princess in Burundi, Florence Ngenzebuhoro found herself a refugee in Canada. Despite the drastic change in circumstances, she turned her life around, becoming a mother, a former public servant, and a community leader. She has spent her adult life advocating for the rights of refugees, new Canadians, and Francophone minorities. Her journey is a testament to her resilience, dedication, and a passion to serve and defend those who are vulnerable in our society.
Key Takeaways
- Resilience and Dedication: Florence’s journey is a testament to her resilience and dedication. Despite the challenges, she remained committed to her mission of advocating for the rights of refugees, new Canadians, and Francophone minorities.
- Leadership: Florence’s leadership skills are evident in her roles at the Centre de santé communautaire Hamilton/Niagara, the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services, and the CENTRE FRANCOPHONE DU GRAND TORONTO.
- Advocacy: Florence’s work in various programs for women affected by violence, newcomers, and mental health programs for young people showcases her strong advocacy skills.
- Recognition: Florence’s work has been recognized at the highest levels, with prestigious awards such as the Officer of the Order of la Pléiade and the Order of Ontario.
A Leader in the Making
Florence’s career began at the Centre de santé communautaire Hamilton/Niagara, where she served as the Director of Programming for 13 years. During her tenure, she implemented programs for women affected by violence, newcomers, and mental health programs for young people. Her work laid the foundation for the creation of the Francophone Immigration Network of Centre Sud-Ouest and the MOFIF (Mouvement Ontarien des Femmes Immigrantes Francophones).
In May 2007, Florence joined the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services as the Director of French Services. For over a decade, she worked tirelessly to strengthen the French Services Act among designated agencies in the Hamilton-Niagara region. She managed the administration of programs and funding aimed at programs for women and children affected by violence, including shelters for women victims of violence, transitional support programs, and programs for children witnessing violence. She also managed mental health programs for children and adolescents.
A Visionary at the Helm
In October 2017, Florence took the helm of the CENTRE FRANCOPHONE DU GRAND TORONTO (CFGT) as the Executive Director. Under her leadership, the CFGT has contributed to the well-being of Francophones in the Greater Toronto Area in all their diversity. Her work spans across primary health care, health promotion, HIV/AIDS programs, mental health, childhood and family services, newcomer services, legal aid, and employability.
In June 2022, Florence was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of CFGT, a role she continues to serve with unwavering commitment and passion.
A Legacy of Excellence
Florence’s exceptional leadership skills have not gone unnoticed. She is a recipient of the prestigious Officer of the Order of la Pléiade and the Order of Ontario. She has also been recognized as one of Canada’s Top 25 Immigrants and received the Prix Inclusion (FCFA). She is also among the Top “100 black women” to watch in Canada.
Education and Certifications
Florence pursued her passion for law and social justice at the Université de Burundi Faculté de Droit, where she earned her LL.B. in Civil Law in 1990. She later obtained her Master’s in Social Work from Laurentian University in 2002. Florence continued her education at Harvard Business School Executive Education, where she completed the Strategic Perspectives in Nonprofit Management program in July 2023. She also attended the Stanford University Graduate School of Business, where she completed the Executive Program for Nonprofit Leaders in May 2023.
Five Leadership Lessons
- Passion for Service: Passion is the driving force behind Florence’s work. Her passion for serving her community is evident in her dedication to advocating for the rights of refugees, new Canadians, and Francophone minorities.
- Resilience: Florence’s journey teaches us the importance of resilience. Despite the challenges, she remained steadfast in her mission.
- Continuous Learning: Florence’s pursuit of higher education, even while working, shows the importance of continuous learning in leadership.
- Collaboration: Florence’s work at the CFGT highlights the importance of collaboration in achieving organizational goals.
- Recognition of Effort: Florence’s numerous awards and recognitions teach us that hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed.
Editorial Notes
Florence Ngenzebuhoro’s story is a shining example of leadership, resilience, and dedication. Her journey from a law student in Burundi to the CEO of CFGT is not just inspiring but profoundly moving. As we delve into her life and career, we are reminded of the power of passion, the importance of resilience, and the impact of dedicated service. Her story leaves a lasting impression, a testament to her remarkable leadership and unwavering commitment to her community. It’s a story of hope, leadership, and the power of service.
