Dr. Ornella Umubyeyi is a trailblazer leader, mentor, change catalyst, incredible master of ceremonies, impactful public speaker and a big advocate of wellness and mental health. She is also known for her thought-provoking messages known as “Hot Tea”. Her messages are multi-ethnic, multigenerational, and multicultural. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Religion and Leadership at Ripon College in Wisconsin.

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She completed her Masters of Arts in Pastoral Care and Counseling at Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary in Chicago and went on to complete her Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral care and Counseling at Gardner-Webb University.

 

She has published three books. She was certified as a life coach in 2014. She was ordained to the work of the pastor's office on October 28th, 2012 under Zion Temple and the Authentic Ministries in Illinois. She has served as an associate pastor and youth pastor in Zion Temple Celebration Center Illinois.  She recently was nominated and honored in the "Faithful 50" of black Alum who exemplify faithfulness, passion, and commitment through the work of academics, ministry, and congregational settings by the Center of the Church and Black Experience at Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary. She was recently nominated for the “​2019 Outstanding Young Alumna Award​ ” by Ripon College for her leadership, pastoral works, and numerous career achievements in philanthropic efforts in both the United States and around the world.  

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She received the ​“Myrtle Saylor Speer Award”​ for her contribution to the expansion of the vision of women in ministry and theological scholarships in 2015 from Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary. She has received the​ CYRWA award​ in 2011, from the First Lady of Rwanda, for her work toward orphans and streets children. She received the “Miriam Emerson Peterson Award” in 2009 for her contribution to the cause of international understanding. She was nominated “​Activist of the Month​ ” by the Teen Voice Magazine in 2009 in Boston. She received the “​Peace Maker Award​ ” by Traprock Peace Center for her intentions, effort, and achievement toward realizing peace and justice in the world in 2007.

 

She has also worked as a chaplain both in Davenport, Iowa and Gastonia, North Carolina.  When Dr. Ornella is not giving lectures at universities, preaching at churches, or being a motivational speaker, she enjoys writing and performing poetry,playing video games, watching Kdramas, and doing photography. She resides in Charlotte, NC. 

She is currently serving as the Director of Children's and Youth Ministries at C.N. Jenkins Memorial Presbyterian Church