Inzozi AcademyStudent Story

When the Quiet Ones Rise: Frank’s Story

Meet Frank, a quiet six-year-old boy with deep, observant eyes and a heart full of untapped potential. When Frank first joined Hagari, he was in a fragile state—his mind seemed distant, and his ability to focus or engage in any activity was alarmingly low. Something wasn’t right, and those around him could sense that he was not thriving the way a young child should.

Coming from a home with limited resources, Frank’s family was doing their best. They are a humble household of five, including Frank and his two siblings, trying to make ends meet without a stable source of income. Life for them was not easy. But what they lacked in finances, they made up for in love and resilience. Frank’s parents seized every opportunity to work—no task was too small if it meant bringing food to the table or sending their children to school.

Still, the weight of their struggles reflected in Frank’s demeanor. At first, he was withdrawn, often lost in his own world, barely engaging with teachers or peers. His teachers, however, saw something in him —an inner spark waiting to be lit. That’s when Ms. Grace and Mr. Simon stepped in, not just as educators, but as mentors, cheerleaders, and anchors in his life.

They refused to let Frank slip through the cracks. With calm patience and gentle encouragement, they drew him out of his shell. Their classroom became a safe haven where Frank was never rushed but was always noticed. Through play-based learning, storytelling, and quiet one-on-one moments, Ms. Grace and Mr. Simon unlocked a side of Frank that had long been hidden.

Over time, that spark turned into a steady flame. Frank began to show signs of awareness, curiosity, and a love for details. He may not be the loudest in the room, but he became one of the most attentive. His ability to observe, notice patterns, and quietly grasp concepts others missed made him stand out in a whole new way. He grew more active—not just at school, but even at home, where his parents say he now contributes and expresses himself more.

The transformation wasn’t just in Frank. His parents also began to change, thanks to Hagari’s Family Development Plan sessions. These classes opened their eyes to new ways of thinking about parenting, saving, and future planning. They no longer felt stuck but instead empowered to slowly change the course of their family’s story.

Today, Frank is thriving. His eyes are alert, his thoughts clearer, and his presence in the classroom undeniable. He walks into school not just as a student, but as a young boy who has been nurtured into believing in himself. And behind this quiet miracle are two remarkable teachers—Ms. Grace and Mr. Simon—whose faith in Frank helped him rediscover his mind, his joy, and his future. Frank’s story reminds us that growth doesn’t always roar—it sometimes whispers. And in those whispers are the echoes of love, support, and the right people showing up at the right time. Because when we believe in children, even the quietest ones can rise. 

Student Story

Raised by Hagari: Yvonne’s Story of Hope

My name is Yvonne, I am 19 years old and currently in Level Five (11th grade). I am a proud child of Hagari Rwanda—a place I have called home and family for many years.

Before Hagari came into my life, I had no idea what my future would look like. I never expected to study in a good school or speak English. Life was uncertain, and I didn’t have the confidence or hope that I have now. But everything changed when Hagari took me in and began to walk with me.

Hagari Rwanda has raised me, guided me, and shaped me into the person I am becoming today. They have not only provided for my basic needs but also built my character, my faith, and my vision for the future. They have taught me how to live well in society, how to respect myself and others, and how to carry myself as a confident, well-behaved young woman.

Because of Hagari, I now try my best in school and in life. I have grown in confidence. I can now stand in front of people and speak without fear—a dream I never imagined would come true when I was younger. They also taught me the values of a Godly girl—honesty, obedience, humility, and love. I now have the Holy Spirit and the Word of God in me. I know how to pray, how to make wise choices, and how to believe in myself.

Whenever I make a mistake, they correct me with love. They are not just my mentors—they are my closest friends. They guide me, encourage me in my studies, and remind me that I have a future full of hope.

I especially love the moments when we go on outings together, visit beautiful places, or have celebration days. Those parties and get-togethers remind me that I am not alone. I belong to a big family that loves me.

In the future, I dream of becoming a woman of influence, someone who can give back to society and raise others the same way Hagari raised me. I want to become a legend in my country and a pillar in my family—and I know I can, because Hagari Rwanda believes in me.

I am deeply thankful for the love, care, and investment they have poured into my life. Their impact will remain in my heart forever. 

Family of Hagari

Brick by Brick: A Mother’s Journey

Rachel, lovingly known in her community as Mama Messi, is a devoted mother whose journey reflects courage, resilience, and transformation. Her children, Messi and Belinda, have been supported for their education by Hagari since nursery school—a foundation that has helped shape not only their lives but also their mother’s.

In 2023, Rachel and her husband took a bold step toward securing stability for their family: they set out to obtain legal ownership of their land. This dream, long held and deeply rooted, became a reality by the end of 2024—made possible through disciplined saving from Rachel’s salary as a cleaner at Hagari and regular contributions to her neighborhood savings group, Tuzamurane Radari.

But their path was not without obstacles. They faced financial strain from uncooperative land co-owners who delayed the process, the emotional and economic challenge of an unplanned pregnancy despite using family planning, and the sudden need to cover school transfer expenses for one of their children. Amid these pressures, they were also preparing for the birth of their baby— saving each month for essential items and expanding their home to create a welcoming space for their growing family.

Despite these trials, Rachel and her husband pressed on with determination. Drawing on the practical knowledge and life skills gained from Hagari Rwanda’s Family Development Plan—especially in budgeting, goal setting, and planning for emergencies—they overcame each hurdle with grace and perseverance.

Today, Rachel proudly holds the official documents to their land. Their once- crowded home is now expanded and filled with warmth and laughter. Her children are flourishing in school, and Rachel herself stands as a symbol of an empowered motherhood.

She expresses heartfelt gratitude to Hagari Rwanda—not only for supporting her children’s education, but also for walking alongside her as a parent through stable employment, financial literacy, and access to health insurance. Her story is a powerful reminder that with determination, planning, and the right support, even the most difficult dreams can come true.