Norfolk, Va.— Rose Mapendo, a survivor of the genocidal violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo, will share her harrowing and poignant story during an appearance at Norfolk State University. Mapendo will talk about her fight for survival, separation from her family and reunification at 7 p.m., Wednesday, September 14 at the L. Douglas Wilder Performing Arts Center.

The evening will include the showing of the film, Pushing the Elephant: The Rose Mapendo Story, which demonstrates the virtues of human resilience, empowerment and family bonds. Mapendo believes that the influence of one can be powerful, but the capacity of many can make a difference. “One person alone cannot push the elephant,” says Mapendo, “but many people together can.”

Despite her suffering and loss, Mapendo has emerged as an advocate for forgiveness and reconciliation. She now serves as a global activist for peace. Along with her brother, Dr. Kigabo Mbazumutima, Mapendo co-founded Mapendo New Horizons — a nonprofit organization committed to educating the global audience about the effects of war on women and children; providing assistance to the victims of war; and offering underserved regions access to medical technology. A mother of 10, she has been recognized for her beneficence by the United Nations Commissioner on Refugees, which presented her with the 2009 Humanitarian of the Year award.

Mapendo’s appearance is free and open to the public; however, donations toward NSU’s African Students Scholarship Fund will be welcomed. The fund will support scholarships for African students who attend Norfolk State University full time. Preference will be given to students who are recruited as a result of the Rose Mapendo Congo Initiative. For more information, call (757) 823-8373 or visit www.nsu.edu/RoseMapendo.

Editor’s Note: As a prelude to this exciting event, you are also invited to attend a panel discussion about the Rwanda/Congo conflict and showing of the film, Hotel Rwanda, at 7 p.m., Tuesday, September 13 in the New Student Center, Room 149.