Meet Diane!

 My name is Diane! I have been in foster care since I was twelve years old. I was born and raised in Rwanda, Africa, and immigrated to the United States for educational opportunities and safety. 

  In 2014, I immigrated with my grandparents and siblings to the United States. When we arrived in the United States, my life instantly changed. At the airport, I was told I would be placed in a foster home because the government felt my grandparents were not capable of taking care of my siblings and me. I felt confused, broken, and alone. My grandparents were the only caregivers I knew. Not only was I being affected by the U.S. government's choice in my life, but I also had to learn a new language and adapt to a new culture. Living with strangers who did not speak my language or look like me was especially difficult for me. The process was complicated; however, it made me stronger and more resilient. My foster care journey was never stable and I moved from home to home throughout my childhood until I aged out in January of 2033 at the age of 21. Regardless of all the barriers and trauma that the foster care system exposed me to, I choose to focus on being a student and excelling in whatever I choose to pursue. During my time in the foster care system, I was a part of the First Star program, which supported the pursuit of higher education. 

I am currently a 3rd-year student at the University of Utah, and intend to graduate with a bachelor's degree in psychology, and a minor in human development and family studies in spring of 2025.

 I am ecstatic to be a co-founder of the 1999 collective in working with my team, to ensure that Utahns, who experienced foster care after the age of 13 are given resources connected, and supported through early adulthood and beyond.

 "Every kid is one caring adult away from being a success story."- Josh Shipp