The Charlotte, North Carolina, community is grieving the loss of Ms. Juliana Umba Nzita, a 16-year-old girl originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo, who passed away on May 8, 2026.
Born on October 20, 2009, Juliana was described by those who loved her as a young woman who gave love freely to everyone around her, even as she carried burdens that those closest to her say no child should ever have had to bear.
Juliana was reported missing on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. For days, family members, friends, and community members held onto hope as they searched and prayed for her safe return.
That hope was shattered on Friday, May 1, 2026, when she was found deceased. Her official date of death is recorded as May 8, 2026.
The news sent shockwaves through the Charlotte community and beyond, particularly among members of the Congolese diaspora who knew her family personally.
Those close to Juliana say her struggles began at a young age. Around the age of 12, she endured severe bullying at school, an experience that left deep emotional scars and affected her for years afterward.
Her story has since become a painful reminder of how bullying can leave wounds that are not always visible but are very real.
Family and friends want the world to understand that Juliana’s life was not defined by her suffering, but by the love she gave and the person she was trying to become.
A Community Rallies to Honor Her Memory
In the wake of her passing, family friend Bueia Umba launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses, transportation, and burial costs, and support for Juliana’s family members during this devastating time.
The campaign, set up to benefit Simelie Khonde Tedika, has already received donations from over 70 people and raised more than $2,500 toward an $8,000 goal.
Donors from across the country have contributed, with many leaving words of comfort and solidarity for the grieving family.
The fundraiser has struck a chord with many people who see Juliana’s story as a broader call to pay attention to the young people around us who may be quietly suffering.
Organizers are encouraging those who cannot donate financially to share the campaign and keep the family in their thoughts and prayers.
Formal services for Juliana are being handled by House of Rosadale Home of Funerals and Cremations, located at 5216 E. Independence Blvd in Charlotte, NC.
A family visitation will be held on Friday, June 26, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, followed by a Homegoing service on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Both services will take place at the House of Rosadale Independence Chapel.
Flowers and memorial gifts can be sent to the family through the funeral home’s sympathy store. Those wishing to attend or send condolences can reach the funeral home at (704) 596-1929 or visit houseofrosadalecharlotte.com.
Juliana Umba Nzita was 16 years old. Her family asks that she be remembered for the life she lived and the love she gave, not the pain she endured.
