Paul Rusesabagina

Presented by International Student Development and International Relations Student Association

We are delighted to welcome an internationally renowned humanitarian and a hero of the Rwandan genocide, Paul Rusesabagina. Mr. Rusesabagina will share his experiences and will be taking questions from the audience. This free event is hosted by UBC International Week with the support of IRSA and will be one of the main events of International Week 2010.

Mr. Rusesabagina was the manager of the Sabena Hôtel des Mille Collines, and sheltered hundreds of Tutsis and moderate Hutus people for a hundred days using all available resources to him. His courageous efforts thwarted bands of genocidal militia while Rwanda descended into outright genocide and civil war, and was celebrated in the Hollywood movie production, “Hotel Rwanda”.

A recipient of numerous international awards, including the Wallenberg Medal and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, Mr. Rusesabagina is a powerful speaker with a story of heroism and humanity in inhumane conditions. In addition to his experiences during and after the Rwandan genocide, Mr. Rusesabagina will share his insights into the nature of the conflict, the failure of the West to stop it, and the challenges of reconciliation.