Before joining Hagari Rwanda, Harriet’s life was filled with worry and uncertainty. She often found herself anxious about her family’s future—especially when it came to her first child’s education. “I had no idea where she would go to school,” Harriet shares. “Every day felt like I was trying to figure things out without enough support.”
But when her daughter was accepted into the Hagari program, everything began to shift.
Through Hagari’s support, Harriet’s daughter was able to transfer to Inzozi Academy—a school with a more nurturing and supportive learning environment. “She used to struggle and often ranked near the bottom of her class,” Harriet explains. “Now she consistently performs well. That alone brought me a lot of peace.”
Harriet’s journey didn’t stop with her daughter’s progress. As a parent, she also began participating in Hagari’s family training sessions. These sessions introduced her to new skills—most notably, self-control and patience. “I used to clash with my husband over small issues,” she says. “But now I’ve learned to stay calm and approach things with more understanding. It’s improved our relationship and brought more peace into our home.”
One training that made a particularly lasting impact on Harriet was about self-reliance. “I used to depend entirely on my husband, even to start a small business,” she says. When he refused to give her the capital she requested, Harriet took matters into her own hands. She began sewing clothes and used the small income she earned to start saving. Even grocery money, when carefully managed, became an opportunity to set aside a little extra.
With time and persistence, Harriet expanded her work. She continued sewing and began selling children’s shoes. “Hagari helped me realize that saving doesn’t require a lot of money—just consistency and discipline,” she explains. That mindset has transformed how she handles daily responsibilities, especially during the times her husband is away.
Recently, Harriet even took a bold step toward future independence: she applied for a national identification document so she could pursue a motorcycle driving license. “My husband didn’t fully support the idea,” she says, “but I chose to move forward anyway. I want to be able to support our family—with or without help.”
Throughout her journey, Harriet has leaned on the guidance of Hagari’s dedicated social workers. “They’ve given me direction and advice whenever I needed it,” she says. “Because of this program, I now think differently and manage my life more intentionally.”
Harriet’s story is one of quiet, determined transformation—a testament to how steady support, education, and encouragement can empower families to thrive.
“I’m truly grateful for all the positive changes that Hagari has brought to my family,” she says.
