Immaculée Ilibagiza

Overview

Immaculée Ilibagiza born Mataba, Kibuye, Rwanda January 14, 1972. Tutsi survivor of genocide 1994; stared down man with machete; forgave mother’s and brothers’ killers; Gandhi Award for Reconciliation and Peace 2007.

Quotations

“The love of a single heart can make a world of difference. . . I knew that my heart and mind would always be tempted to feel anger—to find blame and hate. But I resolved that when the negative feelings came upon me, I wouldn't wait for them to grow or fester. I would always turn immediately to the Source of all true power: I would turn to God and let His love and forgiveness protect and save me.” (Left to Tell; photo immaculee.com)