WALK TOWARD THE RISING SUN FOUNDATION
Who We Are
More About The Team
01.
— GER DUANY
Author, actor, model, and a Goodwill Ambassador to UN Refugee Agency, UNHCR. A child soldier and refugee, resettled to the United States at 15 Duany has used his life experiences to advocate for other refugees.
02.
— CHRIS FRIESEN
Internationally recognized as a leader in the refugee and immigrant sector; Chris served as Immigrant Services Society of BC (ISSofBC) Settlement Services Director for almost 30 years. For over 10 years, he was the Co-Chair of Canada’s National Settlement and Integration Council. He is the recipient of the 2024 National Metropolis Service Provider Award of Excellence.
03.
— KUETH DUANY
Philanthropist, Refugee, and Captain OF THE 2003 SYRACUSE NCAA National Championship team. Kueth is CEO of Gold Leaf MINING; a mineral exploration company with a focus on metals that are critical to society’s zero-carbon future.
04.
— DOUGLAS HESKE
Founder & CEO OF Newday Financial Technologies. A game changing and awards winning business leader in fintech and philanthropy. He brings more than 25 years of investment management, Impact, and leadership experience.
05.
— NHIAL TUTLAM
Assistant Professor at Brown School, his research centers on the intersection of mental health impact of war trauma and risk of health outcomes. Currently leading a study in refugee settlements in Uganda conducted through the International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD).
Our Approach
Empowering Communities. Inspiring Brighter Tomorrows.
Walk Toward the Rising Sun Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization established to empower individuals and strengthen communities through education, mental health support, and sustainable opportunity. We believe that access to knowledge, well-being resources, and inclusive community spaces creates the foundation for long-term growth and resilience.
Our work focuses on expanding educational opportunities, facilitating access to mental health services, and supporting the development of public spaces that encourage leadership, engagement, and connection. We also promote entrepreneurship and community-driven economic initiatives that foster self-sufficiency and lasting impact.
Through strategic partnerships and responsible stewardship of resources, the Foundation provides grants and supports innovative programs aligned with our mission. Guided by integrity, accountability, and a commitment to the public good, we are dedicated to helping communities rise toward brighter, stronger futures.
— Our Mission
To provide quality educational opportunities and facilitate access to mental health services that empower individuals and communities while promoting overall well-being.
— Our Vision
To build empowered, resilient communities where education, mental health support, leadership, and sustainable economic opportunities enable individuals to thrive and create lasting positive impact.
— Our Story
Walk Toward the Rising Sun Foundation was founded on the belief that strong communities are built through access to education, mental health support, and sustainable opportunities. Established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Foundation exists to empower individuals, foster leadership, and create lasting, community-driven impact.