Kwame Botchway radiated positivity, intelligence, laughter, and kindness. For Global Cleveland, Kwame was a constant presence, an ardent supporter, and a steadfast advocate. Above all else, he was a friend and brother to our team and to so many international newcomers in Northeast Ohio.

It was during his time as an inaugural member of our Global Rising International Leadership Program that Kwame first became beloved by our staff. His work ethic, compassion, and drive to make a difference was abundantly clear. Kwame became one of our go-tos when seeking advice or guidance. He was always willing to help Cleveland’s international community, and he touched countless lives in the process.

Kwame embodied our mission. One only had to look at Kwame to see the truth in our tagline: We Strengthen Our City By Welcoming Our World. Cleveland and Northeast Ohio were strengthened by Kwame’s presence here. We were changed by his work, inspired by his commitment and drive. He made us smile. He made us laugh. He made us stronger. How lucky we were to have him in our lives…

A native of Ghana, Kwame came to Cleveland to study at Case Western Reserve University. He supported many projects and endeavors and spoke frequently as an international leader here in Cleveland. He helped advise us on what it was like being an international newcomer and how we could all make the ride smoother and less steep for fellow immigrants and international students.

Kwame’s work on community and economic development in cities captured the attention of the globe. He spoke at the Davos World Economic Forum, one of only 50 people from around the world and one of four from the US to participate. He was a force for good in lifting the voices of young leaders, of Black leaders, and of seeing truly seeing the African immigrant community here in northeast Ohio for the blessing it is and teaching us what a welcoming community looks like.

Kwame, with Crystal Bryant, forged the relationship between Tema, Ghana and Cleveland Ohio as the newest of Cleveland’s Sister Cities. The Tema Ghana Sister City relationship is so critical as it embodies the close ties between great cities, places, and people. For Kwame it was always about people – with his smile and sense of humor AND keen ears, he showed up at meetings, forums, and events to get to know the people who were like him a few years ago: new to the city and nation, seeking connections and futures. He was always finding friends in cups of coffee, gatherings, and doing the biggest, best thing one can do: see our international sisters and brothers for who they are and for what dreams they worked to pursue.

Kwame was a source of life and light. His superpowers came from his brilliant analytical mind and the way he worked to improve conditions in Cleveland for all Clevelanders. His superpowers came from his heart; he showed up, he cared, and he lifted as he rose. What a blessing we have been given to know him and see him and experience his energy, even if it was too short – too painfully short for those lucky enough to call him friend and brother.

Kwame lived in a way that directs us to do the work of building this city and region by welcoming the world. We pick up where he left off, and our work is a tribute to him.