Christelle Onwu, Director of the Social Work Unit and African Diaspora Lead Advisor at the New York City Commission on Human Rights, has been recognized as one of City & State’s 40 Under 40 Rising Stars of 2021. This prestigious award highlights Onwu’s exceptional leadership and tireless advocacy for New York City’s vibrant African community. Her work addresses a critical gap in resources and representation, ensuring that the voices of this diverse and often overlooked population are heard within city government.
Onwu’s journey into social work began after a transformative experience in law school, leading her to pursue a master’s degree and dedicate her career to helping others. Her passion for policy and advocacy ignited while working with the Sauti Yetu Center for African Women, where she witnessed firsthand the disparities faced by African immigrants in accessing essential resources.
Discover how Onwu’s unwavering commitment to the African diaspora led her to create the groundbreaking position of African Diaspora Lead Advisor at the NYC Commission on Human Rights. Learn more about her impactful work, her vision for a more inclusive city, and the recognition she has received as a rising star in New York City politics.
Historically, the number of migrants from Africa’s 54 countries has been so low that U.S. authorities classified them as “other,” a category that has grown exponentially, driven recently, officials say, by fast-rising numbers from the continent.
According to government data obtained by The Times, the number of Africans apprehended at the southern border jumped to 58,462 in the fiscal year 2023 from 13,406 in 2022. The top African countries in 2023 were Mauritania, at 15,263; Senegal, at 13,526; and Angola and Guinea, which each had more than 4,000.
Nonprofits that work on the border said that the trend has continued, with the absolute number and share of migrants from Africa climbing in recent months as potential destinations in Europe narrow.
