AUSTIN, Texas — "Out of Many, One: Portraits of America’s Immigrants," a book of oil-painted portraits by former President George W. Bush, highlights immigrants from all over the world and their remarkable stories.
Gilbert Tuhabonye, a gifted athlete and author, is one of 43 immigrants featured in the book.
Landing the center picture on the front cover, Tuhabonye, who is 46 years old, said he was blown away by the president’s talent and honored to be acknowledged by the former commander-in-chief.
“It’s been a great feeling to see my photo, my portrait right in the gallery in the Bush library, standing among 43. It takes me back to my journey of where I came from and what I’ve been through to be recognized by the president,” said Tuhabonye
Tuhabonye said he’s never met the president prior to getting the call about the book. As an athletics trainer, Tuhabonye coached Jenna Bush in college.
"I guess I made an impact on her life to the point that she told her dad,” explained Tuhabonye.
Tuhabonye’s journey began in Burundi, a country in East Africa where he first dreamed of becoming a professional runner.
Throughout his career, Tuhabonye achieved many accolades, including carrying the Olympic torch for Burundi in the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta.
“Growing up I didn’t have much. I didn’t have what average Americans have. We didn’t have water or electricity in the house. Of course I had big dreams — one of them was running for a college in the United States, ” said Tuhabonye
He explained he was a victim of genocide in Burundi and survived a deadly fire that nearly ended his life, possibly shattering his dreams of ever running again.
“I spent three months in the hospital. I was told I would never run again, until I received a note. Actually, it was a letter from here in the United States from Tulane University in Louisiana, asking me to run on a full-ride scholarship”
He received a sign in the form of a letter — a symbol of hope that encouraged him to get better and chase his dream in America.
For nearly 20 years, Tuhabonye has called Texas home, forming Gilbert’s Gazelle’s, a health training group for runners of all ages.