Joanna Abera Nsenga (‘17)

Quick Facts

Program: Architecture, BA
Graduation Year: 2017
Hometown: Rwanda

Achievements

Since graduating from CBU, I've built a career centered on humanitarian architecture, sustainable development and elevating design in underserved communities. I've had the opportunity to work across East Africa, the U.S. and Southeast Asia, leading projects that range from community centers and schools to medical facilities and resilience hubs. Today, I serve as the Head of the JI Africa Office and Senior Project Manager for Journeyman International (JI), where I guide multidisciplinary teams through the design of social-impact projects across Africa and support our JI Asia location. I also represent Rwanda through several professional bodies, including my service as the RIA Representative on the East African Institute of Architects Board of Practice & Ethics, and my recent appointment to the Commonwealth Youth for Sustainable Urbanization Steering Committee.

The Impact

My time at CBU is foundational to everything I do today. The program gave me both the technical discipline and the deep sense of purpose that guide my work. CBU's focus on service, global responsibility and design rooted in empathy shaped the lens through which I approach every project - not just as buildings, but as tools for healing, dignity and long term impact.

What is a fond memory that you have of your time at CBU?

One of the most valuable lessons I carried from my time at CBU, and one I now share often with the aspiring architecture students we mentor at JI, came from a professor who encouraged us not to limit ourselves after graduation. She reminded us to explore widely: try small, medium and large firms; immerse yourself in different environments; absorb everything; and allow those experiences to reveal your strengths and your niche. Following that advice shape my entire trajectory. By exposing myself to diverse scales, cultures and practice models, I discovered not only what worked for me, but where my heart truly lies in this profession.

Life at CBU

Why did you choose your major? What interested you in this particular field of study?

I wanted to pursue a field that combined creativity, technical problem-solving and human
impact. Over time, my interest evolved beyond aesthetics into understanding how architecture
can support communities, sustainability and social development. I became especially
passionate about humanitarian and community-centered design, where architecture can
directly improve quality of life.

What did you like about being in this program at CBU?

What I appreciated most about the program was the faith-based approach to teaching
architecture and design. It was not just about learning technical skills or creating buildings, but
also understanding how to use your God-given purpose, creativity and talents to serve others.
That perspective deeply resonated with me and shaped the way I approach architecture today,
especially in humanitarian and community-focused work.

What did you think about your professors?

One of the most unique aspects of the program was that we were essentially the “guinea pigs”
or pioneers helping shape and grow the architecture program in its earlier stages. Because of
that, the professors were incredibly invested in student success and genuinely cared about
mentoring and supporting us.

Did you complete an internship?

Yes. I initially completed an internship with Fender Andrade Architects through a connection
made by the Dean at the time. That opportunity was incredibly valuable because it gave me my
first real exposure to the day-to-day operations of an architectural office and professional work
environment. It helped bridge the gap between academics and practice, while also opening the
door to another professional opportunity in the Dallas area after graduation.

How did you grow (spiritually, socially, educationally) while in this program at CBU?

Spiritually, it helped me deepen my faith and better understand the importance of purpose-
driven work. Socially, I learned how to navigate different perspectives, cultures and
personalities as the international community was fairly diverse at the time. Educationally, I
developed discipline and resilience in my ability to solve complex problems creatively and
professionally.

Life after CBU

What have you done since graduating?

Since graduating, I have built a career in architecture and project management across EastAfrica and internationally. I currently serve as a Senior Project Manager and Architect with
Journeyman International, where I help oversee humanitarian and community development
projects around the world, including schools, libraries, vocational centers and community
spaces.

I have also served as a representative on professional architectural boards in East Africa,
contributed to conversations around sustainable urbanization and youth leadership, and
participated in United Nations-related engagements focused on climate action and women
empowerment. In addition, I founded my own design practice, OMNI Studio, which focuses on
architecture and interiors.

Some of the work I am most proud of involves helping create spaces that directly support
underserved communities and empower local development.

What are your current job duties?

My current role involves managing architectural projects from concept through
implementation. This includes project coordination, client communication, consultant
management, design oversight, strategic planning and supporting international partnerships. I
also work closely with multidisciplinary teams across different countries and help guide
humanitarian and community-based design initiatives.

How has your major and time at CBU prepared you for your life and career after college?

I believe I am living my purpose by using architecture as a tool for positive change. Through my
work, I have the opportunity to support communities by helping create safe, dignified and
sustainable spaces that improve education, health and quality of life. I am especially passionate
about empowering underserved communities and advocating for youth leadership, women
empowerment and sustainable development within the built environment.

Is there anything you learned at CBU that you still use in your professional life today?

Live your purpose.

How are you making a difference in the world? How are you living your purpose?

I believe I am living my purpose by using architecture as a tool for positive change. Through my
work, I have the opportunity to support communities by helping create safe, dignified and
sustainable spaces that improve education, health and quality of life. I am especially passionate
about empowering underserved communities and advocating for youth leadership, women
empowerment and sustainable development within the built environment.

What are your future goals and plans?

My long-term goals involve continuing to grow OMNI Studio into a multidisciplinary design
practice that not only focuses on architecture and interiors, but also helps bridge the gap
between suppliers, materials and the architecture industry across East Africa and beyond. I’m
very interested in creating stronger collaborations between designers, manufacturers and local
industries while continuing to explore sustainable and humanitarian-focused architecture. I alsohope to continue expanding my impact internationally through community-centered projects
and strategic partnerships.

Would you recommend CBU to others?

Yes, I would absolutely recommend CBU. The combination of strong academics, faith-based
values and meaningful mentorship creates an experience that prepares students not only for
their careers, but also for life.