1994 – · Greece: Athlete
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Born in Greece to Nigerian immigrant parents, Giannis grew up in difficult circumstances and helped his family make ends meet. He went on to become an NBA…
Immigrant Spotlight
Individuals and families have immigrated to this country for many years and for many reasons. The United States was founded long after it first became a destination for those seeking rich opportunities or freedom from oppression. Following is an alphabetical list of just a few of the noteworthy immigrants who have left their homelands to make the U.S. their home. It is our intent to continue adding to this page.
All Stories
1963 – · Nigeria: Athlete
Hakeem Olajuwon
Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Hakeem moved to Houston to play college basketball at the University of Houston. He became a two-time NBA champion, MVP, Hall of Famer,…
1994 – · Cameroon: Athlete
Joel Embiid
Born in Cameroon, Joel Embiid moved to the United States as a teenager to pursue his basketball dreams. He went on to become an NBA MVP and one of the league’s…
1995 – · Serbia: Athlete
Nikola Jokić
Born and raised in Serbia, Nikola Jokić developed his basketball career in Europe before moving to the United States to play in the NBA. Drafted 41st overall,…
1971 –
Elon Musk
He is a businessman and former public official who is the CEO and largest shareholder of Tesla and SpaceX. Musk has been the wealthiest person in the world…
1937 – · Czech Republic: Politics
Madeline Albright
Formerly Secretary of State under President Clinton, Madeline Albright was born Marie Jana Korbel. She fled the Nazis with her family during WWII; first to the…
1942 – · Chile: Literature
Isabel Allende
Born in Lima, Peru, Isabel moved around the world due to her stepfather's career as a diplomat. She lived in Chile, Bolivia, Europe, and the Middle East, but…
1940 – · Italy: Sports
Mario Andretti
The race car driver saw the Italian Grand Prix at Monza as a small child. He left war-torn Italy in 1955 with his family and came to Pennsylvania. Andretti…
1904 – 1983 · Russia: Performing Arts
George Balanchine
Son of a composer and student of music, Balanchine graduated with honors from the St. Petersburg Imperial Theater School's ballet section. He came to the U.S.…
Immigrant Spotlight
Every immigrant has a story worth telling. Immigrant Spotlight celebrates individuals from around the world who have made meaningful contributions to their communities, their professions, and the United States. Each week, we'll feature the true story of an immigrant whose faith, perseverance, innovation, or service is making a positive impact. By sharing these inspiring journeys, we hope to remind others that behind every immigration story is a person created in God's image with unique gifts, dreams, and the potential to bless those around them.