Mama Sammy 1
Family of Hagari

From Dependence to Self-Reliance

Before joining Hagari Rwanda, Mama Sammy (Emmerance), a mother of two children, lived in a difficult situation. She did not have a stable source of income, and meeting daily household needs was a constant struggle. Although her husband tried to support the family, the support was not consistent. Mama Sammy made several attempts to find work and even tried to obtain a driving license to improve her chances of employment, but these efforts were unsuccessful. Over time, this left her feeling discouraged, confused, and unsure about her future.

At that stage, Mama Sammy lacked direction, start-up capital, and the knowledge needed to begin an income-generating activity. The responsibility of caring for her children weighed heavily on her, and she needed more than financial help. She needed guidance, emotional support, and hope.

After joining Hagari Rwanda, Mama Sammy began receiving regular home visits, counseling, and close follow-up from a social worker. Through these visits, her challenges were discussed, goals were set, and progress was monitored. She also participated in Family Development Plan (FDP) training and discipleship sessions. These sessions helped her learn how to plan, save, work with discipline, and make wise decisions. She was encouraged to start small, remain patient, and trust the process.

Even though she had no personal capital, Mama Sammy took a brave step by borrowing a small amount of money from her mother to start a small business. With guidance, regular follow-up, and hard work, she managed the business carefully and responsibly. She was able to repay the borrowed money and slowly began saving. As her confidence and skills grew, she used her savings to open her own shop, applying the business and financial lessons she had learned through the program.

Today, Mama Sammy’s shop is operating well and continues to grow. The income from the business allows her to meet her household needs, support her children, and increase her savings. She no longer depends on begging or waiting for help, but works with dignity, confidence, and independence.

In addition to economic improvement, Mama Sammy experienced positive emotional and spiritual growth. Through discipleship provided by Hagari, her faith became personal and strong. She learned to pray regularly and trust God in her daily life. This new understanding gave her peace, hope, and motivation.

Mama Sammy also benefited from parenting and family life teachings. Before, she believed that discipline meant only physical punishment. Through training, she learned positive ways to guide her children—correcting them with understanding and appreciating their efforts. As a result, family relationships improved, and her home became more supportive and peaceful.

Today, Mama Sammy is a confident and self-reliant woman (kwigira). She is able to provide for her children, manage her business, and make informed decisions for her family. Her story shows how continuous support—through counseling, training, follow-up, and spiritual guidance—can help vulnerable families move from dependence to lasting self-reliance and hope.

Copy of Mama Alex and Alex N2 Jan 2026
Family of HagariInzozi Academy

Strengthened at Home: Alex’s Story

For a long time, Alex’s family carried deep concern about whether they would be able to provide him with a consistent education. The pressure of school fees weighed heavily on his parents, Cecile and Anastas, and uncertainty about the future caused ongoing worry. Through Hagari Rwanda’s partnership with Inzozi Academy, that burden began to lift, opening the door to learning, peace of mind, and renewed hope for their household.

Cecile and Anastas are devoted to building a stable, loving home for their two sons. Through Hagari Rwanda’s teachings and guidance rooted in the Word of God, their family experienced meaningful transformation. These lessons reshaped their mindset, strengthened unity within the home, and guided them toward healthier decision-making. As a family, they learned to manage resources wisely, live with mutual respect, and grow together in faith.

As their stability increased, Anastas was able to acquire a motorcycle for work, which is now fully paid and serves as the family’s main source of income. This step marked an important milestone, strengthening their ability to provide for their children and plan for the future. Their journey reflects the holistic impact of Hagari’s work—where spiritual growth, emotional wellbeing, and economic stability develop hand in hand.

This transformation is clearly reflected in Alex’s progress at Inzozi Academy. Now a Nursery 2 student, Alex has shown remarkable growth across many areas of development. He interacts confidently and positively with peers and teachers, communicates clearly in English, and participates actively in classroom discussions. His creativity and independent thinking have grown, and he shows increasing confidence as he understands and applies new concepts.

Alex is a joy to teach and a positive presence in his classroom. He is kind, helpful, and respectful, and he builds friendships easily—especially during playtime on the playground, where he enjoys playing on the small play structure with his peers. His favorite meal is rice and beans, and he approaches learning with curiosity and enthusiasm. When asked about his future, Alex excitedly shares that he dreams of becoming a pilot.

Alex’s story is a picture of what is possible when faith, family, and education come together. Through God’s work and the holistic support of Hagari Rwanda, a once-uncertain path is being reshaped into one filled with growth, confidence, and hope for the future.

Copy of Mama Breven 1
Family of HagariInzozi AcademyStudent Story

One Family, One Child, A Hope-Filled Future

For the past five years, Mama Breven and her family have built a peaceful, resilient life grounded in unity, faith, and shared purpose. Their household includes Papa Breven, who works as a delivery driver transporting goods, Mama Breven, who supports the family through tailoring, and their son, Breven. From the beginning of their marriage, Papa and Mama Breven made a thoughtful decision to practice family planning, choosing to raise one child so they could strengthen their family’s wellbeing and economic stability.

Guided by mutual respect and prayer, the family has faced life’s challenges with hope. They actively participate in savings groups, which help them meet essential needs such as rent, food, clothing, and other household expenses. Living peacefully together and putting God first have been central to their growth and progress. Even when difficulties arise, Papa and Mama Breven make decisions together, support one another, and pray as a family. While Papa Breven often works on Sundays and cannot regularly attend church, Mama Breven faithfully attends a Protestant church and continues to pray on behalf of her entire family.

The family has experienced God’s grace in a special way since Breven began receiving educational support from Hagari Rwanda. This support, which helps cover his school fees, has been a source of provision and encouragement beyond what they expected. Mama Breven shares deep gratitude for the teachings and training she has received through Hagari Rwanda, explaining that they have transformed her mindset, strengthened her relationships, and empowered her to build a better future for her family.

That transformation is clearly reflected in Breven’s growth at Inzozi Academy. Now a Nursery 1 student, Breven has made remarkable progress in both practical life skills and cognitive development. He confidently completes daily tasks such as pouring liquids, washing towels, cleaning shoes, carrying a tray, and turning book pages. His curiosity and problem-solving abilities shine through activities like sound recognition and role play, and he loves learning about plants, animals, and different forms of transport.

Breven demonstrates strong numeracy skills, well-developed motor abilities, and enthusiasm during games and group activities. He is compassionate and kind, often helping his peers and taking responsibility for his belongings. Most of all, he is passionate about learning. He eagerly expands his English vocabulary and delights in using new words in conversation, showing both confidence and dedication to his growth.

Together, the steady strength of Breven’s family and his flourishing development at Inzozi Academy tell a powerful story of hope, dignity, and opportunity. Breven’s progress—and the positive influence he brings to his classroom—reflect the lasting impact of walking alongside families with holistic support. Thank you for being part of this journey and for helping nurture young learners like Breven.

Tricia & Mom
Family of HagariInzozi AcademyStudent Story

Tricia and Her Mother: Strength Growing Together

Tricia is a joyful, curious learner whose presence brings warmth to her classroom at Inzozi Academy. With a laugh that fills the room and a deep love for learning, Tricia has made remarkable progress in just her first term. She confidently greets others, introduces herself, recognizes colors and shapes, and approaches each day with enthusiasm. She loves painting, sorting colors, spending time with her best friend Britta—and she proudly shares that her favorite possession is a red dress. 

When asked about the future, Tricia doesn’t hesitate: she wants to be a doctor.

Behind Tricia’s bright smile is a mother whose strength has carried an entire family. As the eldest child in her family, Mama Tricia is the sole provider for her mother, stepfather, four younger siblings, and Tricia. She relies on daily wage labor and faces the emotional and financial strain of raising her daughter without support from Tricia’s father. For years, the weight of responsibility felt heavy and unrelenting.

Everything began to change when Tricia was enrolled at Inzozi Academy through Hagari Rwanda’s educational sponsorship. With her daughter in a safe, nurturing school environment, Mama Tricia felt a burden lift. Beyond easing financial strain, Hagari Rwanda offered something deeper—community, encouragement, and renewed hope.

“I feel strong and empowered now that my daughter is in a good school and being part of the Hagari Rwanda family,” Mama Tricia shares.

Today, Tricia is thriving, and her mother is no longer walking alone. Their story is one of shared growth—where a child’s opportunity becomes a family’s renewed strength, and hope takes root for generations to come.

Godson Credo and mom 1
Family of HagariStudent Story

Charlotte and Godson: From Survival to Hope

Charlotte—known lovingly as Mama Godson—is a resilient mother whose life has been shaped by both hardship and determination. Orphaned at a young age, she grew up without the stability or support every child deserves. By 19, she had become a mother herself, carrying a deep resolve to give her children the love and security she never had.

Today, Charlotte cares not only for her three biological children but also for two additional children in need. She works tirelessly as a cleaner, taking on any job available to keep food on the table. At home, life has not been easy. Her husband, a motorcycle mechanic, struggles with alcohol addiction, bringing instability and pain into the household. For a long time, Charlotte lived in a constant state of worry—unsure how she would make it through each day.

Everything began to change when her son, Godson, was enrolled in Hagari Rwanda’s Student Partnership Program and joined Inzozi Academy. For the first time in years, Charlotte felt a deep sense of relief. Knowing Godson was safe, cared for, and receiving a quality education allowed her to work without fear. But the impact went far beyond the classroom.

As Godson began to thrive at school, Charlotte was invited into Hagari’s weekly family development trainings. There, she found more than practical tools—she found community. Through lessons on stress management, healthy relationships, and goal setting, Charlotte rediscovered her own strength. Bible studies and prayer sessions helped her reconnect with her faith, restoring hope and courage for the future.

“I used to feel like I was just surviving,” Charlotte shares. “Now I feel like I’m growing. I have peace. I have community. And I believe things can be different for my children.”

That transformation is evident in Godson every day.

Godson is one of the shining stars at Inzozi Academy. He comes to school full of joy and curiosity, eager to learn and explore the world around him. He communicates confidently in English, loves storytelling and role-play, and shows remarkable independence in daily routines like hygiene and practical life tasks. His strong motor skills shine during physical activities, and his curiosity extends to topics like animals, plants, transportation, and weather.

Just as remarkable is Godson’s heart. He is kind, generous, and always ready to help his classmates—whether assisting a friend or volunteering for small tasks like washing shoes. He doesn’t like being alone; he thrives in community, showing care and warmth to everyone around him.

When asked what he wants to be when he grows up, Godson beams and says, “I want to drive a firetruck!”

Because of your generosity, Charlotte’s story is no longer one of survival—it is a story of healing, growth, and hope. And Godson’s future is no longer uncertain—it is full of possibility.

Thank you for standing with families like Charlotte’s. Your support is changing lives—one mother, one child, one hopeful future at a time.

Mama Joy
Family of HagariInzozi AcademyStudent Story

A Mother’s Prayer, A Child’s Promise

Harriette—also known as Mama Joy—once carried a heavy worry that no parent should bear.

With her daughter Christa reaching school age, she longed to give her a strong, quality education, yet she struggled even to afford one meal a day. The dream of enrolling her child in a good school felt far beyond reach. She prayed for a way, wishing she could offer her daughter opportunities she never had herself.

Everything changed the day she learned that Christa had been given the chance to study at Hagari. Though she was unfamiliar with the school at first, Mama Joy quickly began to notice meaningful changes. Her daughter came home speaking new English words, showing a newfound confidence, and embracing learning with joy. The weight on Mama Joy’s heart lifted—replaced by peace and the reassurance that her child was finally receiving the education she dreamed of providing.

Today, Mama Joy works hard to meet her family’s other needs, knowing Christa is learning in a safe, supportive, and high-quality environment. She expresses deep gratitude for Hagari and its leadership, praying for God’s continued blessings on all who have restored hope to her family and reminded her that she is not alone.

And Christa truly is thriving.

Since the beginning of the term at Inzozi Academy, she has shown remarkable growth in every area. Her social confidence has flourished—she interacts warmly and positively with her classmates. Her English communication skills have strengthened, and she now expresses herself clearly both with peers and teachers. Christa’s creativity has blossomed through her love for drawing and storytelling, where she retells stories in her own imaginative way. She grasps new concepts with increasing ease, approaching each lesson with curiosity and joy.

Her cheerful spirit, kindness, and eagerness to help others make her a delight in the classroom. When asked about her dreams, Christa answers with conviction: She wants to become a teacher—so she can help children learn and grow, just as her teachers have helped her.

As Christa continues her beautiful journey of learning, confidence, and creativity, we invite you to keep her—and all our learners—in your prayers. May they continue to shine brightly, growing in wisdom and walking in love as they pursue their God-given dreams.

Isimbi
Family of HagariInzozi AcademyStudent Story

A Brighter Path for Isimbi

Agnes,mother of young Isimbi, remembers a time when her family stood at a difficult crossroads.

With limited resources and growing needs at home, she feared she would never be able to give her daughter the quality education she deserved. When Hagari Rwanda stepped in, offering Isimbi the opportunity to attend a good school, it lifted a heavy burden off her family. Agnes speaks with deep gratitude about how this support arrived at exactly the right moment.

With the sponsorship easing the cost of education, the family could redirect their limited resources toward supporting Isimbi’s younger sibling, bringing renewed stability and peace of mind into their home. For Agnes, the change has been deeply encouraging—an answer to prayer and a reminder that her family is not alone on this journey.

And from her very first days in the classroom, little Isimbi began to shine.

Her teachers immediately noticed her enthusiasm and natural love for learning. Within just a few days, she had already mastered basic greetings and polite English expressions. She confidently introduces herself—sharing her name, her school, and even her class with pride.

Isimbi’s curiosity is contagious. She delights in identifying colors in English, asks thoughtful questions, and models excellent behavior for her classmates. Her confidence and positive attitude have made her a quiet leader among her peers, uplifting the entire classroom environment.

Her rapid growth is a beautiful testimony to what can happen when a child is given the chance to learn in a supportive, nurturing environment.

As this family continues moving toward a brighter future, we invite you to keep them in your prayers. May God strengthen them, provide for their needs, and bless Isimbi as she continues to grow in confidence, knowledge, and joy.

Thank you for your unwavering support—your partnership is shaping the future of children like Isimbi every single day.


 

Francine
Family of Hagari

A Mother’s Triumph

Francine’s Journey from Despair to Hope

Francineis a mother of five children whose story reflects the incredible power of faith, resilience, and love.

When her husband passed away, Francine was left to raise her children alone. Life became unbearably difficult. She rarely smiled or spoke with others and often found herself resenting children who still had fathers — a painful reminder of what she and her children had lost. Having grown up without a father herself, she felt history was repeating itself in her own family.

Everything began to change when Hagari Rwanda found Francine. Through the program’s teachings and community support, her heart began to heal. She started learning the Word of God, and little by little, she found freedom from the bitterness and despair that once defined her days.

One of the most life-changing lessons she learned was about stewardship and love. There were moments when the weight of poverty felt unbearable — times when Francine considered abandoning her children because she could not feed them. But Hagari’s teachings transformed her perspective.

“Hagari taught me to never give up on my children, even in the darkest times,” Francine says.

The second lesson that shaped her journey was about saving and self-reliance. With courage and determination, Francine borrowed a small amount of money from her peers to start selling fruit along the roadside. From her earnings, she repaid her debt and continued saving little by little.

Francine

Today, Francine proudly runs her own small business. She has built her capital to 50,000 RWF ($35) — all her own, with no debts — and continues to save faithfully. Her children no longer go hungry as they once did. They are healthy, in school, and full of life and laughter.

Francine gives all the credit to Hagari Rwanda, whose compassion and teachings gave her a new beginning.

“Before Hagari, I thought my children and I had no future,” she says. “Now I smile again, I can feed them, and I believe tomorrow will be better.”

Through her journey from grief to growth, Francine has rediscovered her dignity and her strength as a mother. She stands as a living testimony of hope — proof that with faith, opportunity, and support, a mother’s love can overcome even the darkest of days.

 
Chanceline
Family of HagariStudent Story

From Grief to Greatness

The Determination of a Future Innovator

Chanceline is a bright and determined Senior Five student specializing in IT and Computer Systems. Chanceline is now in Senior 5 (11th grade) and with each passing term, she is one step closer to the future she dreams of building.

Chanceline comes from a family of four children who live with their father in the wake of deep loss. After her mother passed away, she went through a painful period of grief and depression. But with her father’s love and support, she slowly found her strength again.

Her educational journey has been made possible through Hagari’s student partnership program, which has supported her by paying school fees and ensuring she receives a quality education. At the same time, her father has also benefited from Hagari’s teachings, helping him make progress in his own life. Together, their family has experienced a gradual but steady transformation.

Chanceline

Last year, Chanceline faced another challenge — a serious illness that caused her to miss many classes and often return home for treatment. Despite her poor health, she made herself a promise: even if she was sick, she would score above 70% in her exams. Through sheer determination and perseverance, she not only met that goal but surpassed it.

Chanceline attributes her resilience and strength to the support she receives from Hagari, whose consistent encouragement and care have given her the confidence to keep striving for excellence.

Looking ahead, Chanceline dreams of becoming an IT specialist, designing and creating machines that make work easier — especially in the medical field or the military. She is determined to bring innovation to life and use her knowledge to help others.

Chanceline’s story is one of courage, healing, and purpose. From grief to growth, she stands as a powerful reminder that with hope, mentorship, and opportunity, even the deepest pain can give rise to greatness.

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Inzozi AcademyStudent Story

A Journey of Growth and Confidence

Meet Divine

Divine is a bright ten-year-old girl in Primary Four at Inzozi Academy. Though her parents are alive, Divine lives with her aunt, who lovingly cares for her and ensures she continues her education.

When Divine first joined Inzozi Academy, she faced many challenges — especially with understanding and speaking English, the language used for instruction. Lessons felt overwhelming, and her confidence in class began to fade. She often sat quietly, hesitant to speak or participate, unsure of how to express herself. Her struggle with English made it hard to concentrate, and over time, her academic performance began to drop.

Another obstacle Divine faced was the long distance she had to walk each morning to reach school. The tiring journey left her exhausted and often late, which made it even harder for her to stay focused during lessons.

Seeing her struggles, her teachers decided to step in. They reached out to her guardian to discuss how to make her daily journey easier. Together, they found a solution — supporting Divine with bus fare every morning so she could travel comfortably and arrive on time.

The change was remarkable. Almost immediately, Divine began coming to school early, full of energy and excitement, ready to learn. She became more attentive in class and started to enjoy her lessons. Her teachers also introduced engaging classroom activities that helped her build confidence and gradually strengthen her English skills.

Week by week, Divine’s progress became clear. Her spoken English improved, her voice grew stronger, and her confidence began to shine. She started answering questions, engaging with her classmates, and even helping others who struggled as she once did.

Today, Divine is a transformed learner. Her academic performance has improved significantly, and she’s now one of the most cheerful and enthusiastic students in her class. She comes to school with joy, participates eagerly, and radiates confidence in everything she does.

Divine’s journey is a beautiful reminder of what happens when teachers and guardians work hand in hand to support a child. With just a little understanding and encouragement, a child’s potential can truly shine.

For Divine — the girl who once sat quietly, unsure of her words — school has now become a place of confidence, growth, and endless possibilities.

Mama Kevin (Stella) 2
Family of Hagari

The Power of a Mother’s Will

Stella's Story

In the heart of Busanza, Rwanda, lives Stella, affectionately known as Mama Kevin — a hardworking mother of three whose quiet strength and determination sustain her family. Her livelihood comes from selling fish by the roadside — a modest yet steady business that keeps food on the table and her children’s basic needs met.

At the beginning of this year, Stella set a goal that reflected both her love and her vision for her children’s future. Her eldest daughter, Gatesi, is studying Computer Science, but she often struggled to keep up in class because she didn’t have her own computer. Stella decided she would change that. She made it her mission to buy a second-hand computer before the 2025–2026 school year began — even if it meant saving every franc she could from her small business.

With determination, sacrifice, and an unshakable sense of purpose, Stella met her goal. After months of saving, she purchased a second-hand computer for 180,000 RWF (about $125). Today, Gatesi attends her lessons with confidence, no longer depending on classmates’ laptops.

Stella
"Mama Kevin"

But this achievement is only part of Stella’s story. Despite the daily struggles of single motherhood, she continues to provide for every need in her household — from school supplies, rent, and food to medical care and clothing. At times, she has borrowed from her savings group to cover urgent expenses, yet she has never wavered in her commitment to repay, save, and move forward.

Stella says her greatest source of strength has been seeing how Hagari Rwanda supports her children’s education. Inspired by that example, she felt it was her responsibility to do her part as a mother. Knowing that her daughter’s studies required a computer, she reminded herself that “there was no one else who would do it for Gatesi.”

Through this journey, Stella discovered powerful lessons:

  • Every achievement requires sacrifice.
  • Saving is essential for progress.
  • And above all, a parent must always strive to play their part.

When she finally reached her goal, Stella’s heart overflowed with joy and renewed confidence in her ability to shape her children’s future. Gatesi, equally grateful, expressed deep appreciation for her mother’s love and commitment.

Stella remains profoundly thankful to Hagari Rwanda for walking alongside her family. She recalls a time when she had lost all hope that her children would ever attend school — but Hagari Rwanda stood by her, encouraging her to dream again, set goals, and believe in what was possible.

Today, Stella’s story stands as a shining example of the power of a mother’s will — and the life-changing impact that compassion and partnership can bring.

PHOTO-2025-09-19-18-04-00
Project Serve

From Construction Site to Heart Transformation

The Story of Project Serve

The dust, or mud, of Rwanda’s Northern Province, specifically Burera, often holds the untold stories of hardship. But for 19 young men and women from the Hagari’s Student Partnership Program, the days of August 7th-17th, 2025, were dedicated to writing a new story—one of hope, hammers, and profound change. This was Project Serve.

Building a Home, Restoring Dignity

Project Serve was more than just an outreach program; its’ goal was to lay the foundation of a new home for a poor family with a child who has special needs. Their living conditions were incredibly difficult. From 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. each day, the Hagari participants worked tirelessly on the construction site.


For the mother, Uzamukunda, this new structure was a miracle. “It’s a new beginning for us—a family that has endured so much,” she shared, her heart full of joy. Receiving the house brought not just physical shelter, but also hope, peace, and a strengthened faith in God. As she said,
“We now have a safe place to call home, and our hearts are full of joy. We are encouraged to serve God even more. We feel loved…”. By the end, the teamwork of these young people had
helped restore the family’s dignity.

The Hagari Students: Leaders and Servants

The true impact of Project Serve is seen in the transformation of the young participants themselves. The project was designed to empower and promote servant leadership. Every day was a lesson in responsibility: team coordinators Bonfils and Sharon were given the opportunity to practice their leadership skills. 

For Emmanuel, a participant, it was deeply personal: “Project Serve taught me the value of teamwork and helping those in need. Since I have also been helped, it felt good to give back. It was a great joy to see the family so happy as we built their home”.

Spiritual Foundations

Beyond the worksite, the students engaged in spiritual growth activities. The core lesson centered on Ecclesiastes 12:1, urging them to “Remember your Creator in the days of your youth.” These Bible study sessions and powerful worship moments, joined by the Dutch team, inspired them to seek God while they are still young.

For a young man named Desire, the sessions were life-changing. He strengthened his
relationship with God, learned new Bible verses, and recognized the power of making Godly choices early in life. The experience touched his heart, inspiring him to be an example among his friends and keep his faith strong long after the project ended.

Hope, Love, and Transformation

The entire experience was a testament to the power of unity and generosity. The work was made faster and easier by the sheer number of hands, a fact the family deeply appreciated. The involvement of the Dutch team brought “more energy and motivation,” showing the students and the family that support can come from anywhere. The family was especially thankful that people came all the way from another country to help, admiring their kindness, humility, and willingness to give without expecting anything in return.

Project Serve truly brought hope, love, and transformation to everyone involved. Through their selfless service, the Hagari students grew stronger in their faith and character, and in doing so, they gifted a deserving family a new beginning, reminding all of us that helping others with a humble heart can make a strong and lasting difference.