Fredrick Shema, originally from Rwanda, moved to Uganda as a refugee. Fredrick’s family was resettled in Boise, Idaho in 2012. Fredrick graduated from the University of Idaho with an undergraduate degree in International Studies and a minor in Economics, and he is fluent in Kinyarwanda, Swahili, Luganda, and Kirundi 

He recently joined the International Rescue Committee as Youth Success Specialist in February of 2020 where he supports newly arrived refugee youths in school enrollment and implement programs that support refugee youths in their communities. 

Fredrick applied for the Boards and Commissions Fellowship program because he aspires to advocate for our refugee populations, and he believes this program gives him an opportunity to learn and grow as a Black leader. Fredrick hopes to improve his communication skills, leadership, and advocacy skills from this fellowship. 

Fredrick Shema enjoys playing and coaching soccer during his free time. He’s currently coaching for Nations United where he coaches the U12 boys’ team. He also loves reading in his leisure time in pursuit of improving his thinking and he hopes to one day to practice law and speak up for the voiceless.