When you meet Mwamini Ramazani, one of the first things you’ll notice is her calm and assuring presence, the kind that instantly puts people at ease. It’s a quality that serves her well in her work supporting our clients as they navigate new systems, languages, and beginnings in the U.S.
At just 23 years old, Mwamini brings a depth of compassion and wisdom beyond her years. Originally from Congo, she grew up in Burundi and lived in Malawi before coming to the United States with her family as refugees when she was about 11 years old. Utah has been home ever since. After earning her Bachelor of Social Work and a minor in Business Management from the University of Utah, she joined AAU, the very agency that helped her own family rebuild their lives.
“When we arrived in Utah as refugees, AAU helped my mom and my family become self-sufficient,” she recalls proudly. “Now my mom runs her own home-based daycare that operates from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. It’s called Cecilia Nahimana daycare, and we all help her run it. I wanted to give back to the same community and the same agency that supported my family; that’s why I’m here.”
A Day in Her Work
A typical day for Mwamini includes meeting clients face-to-face, whether at the office, during home visits, or accompanying them to appointments with other service providers. Her role is diverse, connecting clients with housing, healthcare, legal and immigration aid, education, and other resources to support their path toward self-sufficiency.
“I spend a lot of time researching, calling places, and collaborating internally and externally,” she explains. “If I don’t know the answer, I do my best to find the solution.”
It’s a job that requires patience, with systems, expectations, and even oneself. “You have to take care of yourself to be able to help others,” she adds.
Staying Grounded and Motivated
When the work gets tough, Mwamini finds strength in her team. “Knowing that I can rely on my team keeps me motivated. My team members are amazing. They support me and keep me going,” she says.
Her natural gift for forming genuine human connections is one of her biggest strengths. “I’ve been told it’s my calm and assuring demeanor,” she says modestly. “I’m able to build trust with clients easily, and that makes the work meaningful.”
To recharge, she turns to meditation; a practice she began in high school to manage stress and anxiety. “Even between meetings, I’ll meditate for five minutes. It helps me stay centered.”
Reflections and Wisdom
From her clients, Mwamini has learned patience and resilience; “how, even in the hardest moments, people find the strength to keep going.” From her team, she’s learned the power of being believed in: “It feels so good knowing your team has confidence in your ability.”
Her advice to new professionals in the field?
“Don’t put too much pressure on yourself and don’t seek perfection. Mistakes will happen. We’re all human and we learn as we go.”
And her hopes for the future reflect her heart for service and growth. “For our clients, I hope they become so independent and successful that they don’t need us anymore,” she laughs. “And for our agency, I hope it keeps growing. I’ve seen firsthand how it can change lives.”
Beyond Work
Outside of work, Mwamini loves spending time with her sisters and friends exploring new restaurants around Salt Lake City. Her current favorite is Tokyo Tower, a local Japanese sushi spot. She’s also a big fan of cozy weekends in Park City during winter, sipping hot chocolate and watching the snow fall.
Despite her busy schedule, she still finds time to unwind with a good show. “I’m not big on music, but I love TV shows and movies. The Vampire Diaries is my all-time favorite. I’m actually watching it again right now!” she says with a laugh.
And one thing most coworkers don’t know? “I’m actually really funny and outgoing!”
Her mother’s advice continues to echo in her life: “Stop being too hard on yourself.”
It’s a lesson she carries with her as she continues to grow; as a professional, a young woman building her future, and a role model giving back to the very community that once gave her family a fresh start.
