Our Team

Leonard Bagalwa is a successful entrepreneur based in the United States, originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). After immigrating to the U.S. as a refugee, he built a strong professional career grounded in business leadership, community development, and public service. He holds a master's degree of Business Administration (MBA) and a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health from Utah Valley University.

In 2020, Leonard returned to his native village in the DRC, where he witnessed the severe challenges facing rural communities, including hunger, poverty, conflict, food shortages, climate change, and limited agricultural infrastructure. Motivated by his commitment to his homeland, he began working to create practical solutions that support food security and sustainable rural development.

Leonard is the Founder and CEO of FAB, an agropastoral enterprise dedicated to strengthening resilience, improving food security, and supporting sustainable farming communities. Through FAB, he focuses on agricultural development, economic growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability. With experience in both the for-profit and nonprofit sectors, Leonard is committed to creating lasting impact in the DRC and beyond.

Jessie Oyler joined FAB Projects in 2026 as Policy Analyst and Compliance Officer, bringing valuable experience in public administration, compliance, program management, budgeting, and community-focused service delivery.

In this role, Jessie supports FAB Projects by helping develop and review policies, strengthen internal procedures, ensure organizational compliance, and promote responsible project implementation. Jessie’s background in housing programs, public service, and operational leadership provides FAB with important expertise in accountability, governance, and sustainable program management.

Through this work, Jessie contributes to FAB’s mission of advancing sustainable agriculture, rural development, food security, and long-term community impact in the Democratic Republic of Congo and across Africa.

Bernard Balibuno, MPA joined FAB Projects in 2020 as Finance and Projects Advisor. He holds a Master of Public Administration from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, USA, and brings extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, humanitarian response, financial oversight, project planning, and community development.

At FAB Projects, Bernard provides guidance on financial strategy, project design, accountability, and sustainable development. His deep knowledge of the Democratic Republic of Congo and experience working with vulnerable communities help FAB strengthen its programs in food security, rural development, and community resilience.

Through his advisory role, Bernard supports FAB’s mission to build sustainable agricultural and agropastoral systems, promote responsible growth, and create long-term impact for rural communities across the DRC.

Aubree Childs serves as the International Business Development Associate for FAB Projects, where she supports global outreach, strategic partnerships, donor engagement, and business development opportunities.

Aubree brings valuable experience in nonprofit leadership, advocacy, communication, and community engagement. As the founder of Fight Therapy Foundation, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to empowering vulnerable communities and building mission-driven programs.

At FAB Projects, Aubree helps expand international relationships, connect with investors and partners, and support initiatives that advance food security, sustainable agriculture, rural development, and long-term community impact in the DRC and across Africa.

Through her leadership and relationship-building skills, Aubree contributes to FAB’s efforts to attract resources, strengthen partnerships, and create long-term community impact.

Jacques Zirimwabagabo serves as the Country Representative and Operations Manager for FAB Projects. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Project Management and plays an important role in coordinating FAB’s work in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In his position, Jacques supports field operations, project implementation, local coordination, and partnerships with communities and stakeholders. His project management background helps ensure that FAB’s agriculture, agropastoral, and rural development initiatives are well-planned, organized, and effectively executed.

Jacques brings to FAB Projects strong leadership, operational coordination, local knowledge, and practical project management skills. His work supports FAB’s mission to improve food security, promote sustainable rural development, create economic opportunities, and strengthen communities across the DRC.