As part of a weeklong series celebrating new American citizens, NPR hosts Leila Fadel and Steve Inskeep highlight the journey of Didier Kindidi from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Kindidi shared his story during a naturalization ceremony in Baltimore, where he reflected on his path to becoming a U.S. citizen.
Having moved to the U.S. in 2016, Kindidi initially lived in Seattle before relocating to Maryland in 2019. He had pursued education in his home country and aimed to broaden his horizons by studying in the U.S., initially seeking admission to a university in Seattle before arriving as an immigrant.
Kindidi’s perception of America was shaped by the country’s portrayal in music and movies, which influenced his decision to pursue opportunities there. He believed the U.S. offered more prospects due to its advanced technology and robust job market.
Despite his optimism, Kindidi faced significant challenges during his first year in the U.S., including cultural and language barriers, which made him consider returning home. As the first in his family to live in North America, he navigated these obstacles largely on his own, utilizing technology and popular culture to learn English and adapt to American life.
NPR Highlights Journey of New American Citizen Didier Kindidi from the Democratic Republic of Congo
Over time, Kindidi found support within the Seattle community, which played a crucial role in easing his transition. His aspiration to work as a government contractor or in a similar capacity faced a major hurdle due to his non-citizen status.
Achieving U.S. citizenship has been pivotal for Kindidi, opening doors to new career opportunities that align with his long-term goals. Citizenship, for him, is not merely a status but a gateway to future success and personal fulfillment.
With his newfound citizenship, Kindidi feels a profound sense of responsibility and a desire to contribute to the country that has offered him these opportunities. He expresses a mixture of happiness and stress, recognizing the significant impact of this milestone on his life and career aspirations. As he plans for the future, he is motivated to advance his position and make meaningful contributions to his new country.
This personal narrative is part of a larger series by NPR that continues to explore the experiences and aspirations of newly naturalized American citizens, offering insights into their diverse backgrounds and the unique challenges they overcome in pursuit of the American dream. Through these stories, NPR aims to celebrate the spirit of independence and the ongoing contributions of immigrants to the United States.
