Bisenge, Mico Mariette
Mico Mariette Bisenge is an international Global Mission Fellow with the United Methodist General Board of Global Ministries, engaged in a two-year term of service.
The Global Mission Fellows program takes young adults ages 20-30 out of their home environments and places them in new contexts for mission experience and service. The program has a strong emphasis on faith and justice. Global Mission Fellows become active parts of their new local communities. They connect the church in mission across cultural and geographical boundaries. They grow in personal and social holiness and become strong young leaders working to build just communities in a peaceful world.
A lay member of Ryabizige United Methodist Church, Rubavu, related to the Rwanda Annual Conference, Mariette is in charge of children’s and youth ministry. Her educational studies focused on physics, chemistry and mathematics.
Born into a Christian family, Mariette attended Sunday school faithfully and was baptized at age 14. She still claimed two identities: home/church and school.
“Two years later,” she said, “the Holy Spirit convinced me that I need to commit to word and prayer.”
Today, Mariette’s commitment to justice finds its roots in a deep concern for environmental conservation, the sustainable development of agriculture, and the protection of children and youth rights. “These interconnected issues have been a driving force in my personal and professional endeavors,” she said. “For the past three years, I have dedicated myself to building a sustainable future through entrepreneurship, focusing on developing climate-resilient agricultural solutions. This work has not only fostered economic growth but also contributed to environmental sustainability and improved livelihoods for farmers and communities.”
Mariette views Global Mission Fellows as an invaluable opportunity to broaden her understanding of international justice challenges.
“By immersing myself in a diverse and global learning environment,” she noted, “I would be exposed to a wider range of perspectives and best practices in addressing complex social and environmental issues. This exposure would undoubtedly push me to think critically, challenge my assumptions, and develop more innovative and impactful solutions.
“I would gain valuable hands-on experience in project management, community engagement and advocacy, while also developing strong leadership and communication skills. These skills are not only vital for success in the nonprofit sector but also highly transferable to the entrepreneurial world. By learning to navigate complex challenges, collaborate effectively with diverse teams and effectively communicate my vision, I will be better equipped to lead my own ventures and contribute meaningfully to a more just and equitable world.”
Mariette expressed assurance that Global Mission Fellows would prove transformative, expanding her horizons, deepening her understanding of global challenges, and empowering her to become a more effective leader and entrepreneur. “I am eager to contribute my skills and passion to this important work and to learn from the experiences and expertise of others within the fellowship community,” she said.
She imagines herself contributing meaningfully to the community by leveraging her unique blend of entrepreneurial skills, academic knowledge and deeply held interests. “My experience as an entrepreneur in developing climate-resilient agricultural solutions,” Mariette said, “has provided me with invaluable skills in project management, problem solving and innovation. I believe these skills will be instrumental in identifying critical needs within the community, developing sustainable and impactful solutions, and effectively implementing projects that address those needs.”
Mariette’s academic background and personal interest in environmental conservation and social justice resonate with the program’s core values. “I am committed to actively seeking opportunities to collaborate with other fellows, community members and local organizations,” she said. “By fostering strong partnerships and leveraging the diverse skills and perspectives within our collective, we can effectively address complex challenges and achieve greater impact.”
Protecting the rights of children and youth is one of Mariette’s many passions. “I will actively advocate for policies and programs that ensure children and youth have access to quality education, health care and opportunities for growth and development. I believe that empowering young people is crucial for building a just and sustainable future.”
Mariette desires to share her knowledge and expertise in agriculture and sustainability with community members, particularly farmers and youth. “This could involve conducting workshops on sustainable agricultural practices, providing technical assistance to farmers and promoting the adoption of climate-resilient farming techniques,” she explained. “By sharing my knowledge and empowering others, I hope to contribute to the development of a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector.
“I am confident that by actively engaging with the community, collaborating with others and utilizing my unique skills and knowledge, I can make a significant and lasting contribution to the development of just and sustainable communities.”