Sammy 1
Inzozi AcademyStudent Story

LEARNING, GROWING, BELIEVING

Meet Sammy, a five-year-old boy in Nursery 3 whose journey at school began with quiet struggles that were not always easy to notice at first glance. Born as the second child in his family, Sammy entered the term with undeveloped gross and fine motor skills that made even the simplest classroom tasks feel overwhelming.

From the start, it was clear that Sammy found it difficult to keep up with activities that required coordination and control. Tasks like holding a pencil, gripping crayons, or cutting with scissors were a challenge.

During practical life lessons and physical education, he often struggled to complete activities that his peers handled with ease. While other children played and interacted freely, Sammy kept to himself. He rarely socialized, choosing instead to work alone, quietly navigating a world that felt just a little too demanding for him. Academically, his difficulties showed in the smallest but most important skills. He could not confidently hold writing tools, making it hard for him to form letters or participate fully in classroom exercises. Behaviorally, he hesitated to speak, avoided group interactions, and preferred isolation over engagement. It wasn’t that he lacked ability—it was that he needed time, patience, and the right support to unlock it.

Then, a gradual transformation began.

His teachers recognized that Sammy didn’t just need instruction—he needed intentional guidance. They introduced consistent, hands-on activities aimed at strengthening his fine motor skills. Day after day, he practiced folding materials, squeezing towels, cutting shapes, and engaging in structured tasks that built his hand strength and coordination. During physical education, his teachers patiently simplified activities, breaking them down into manageable steps and slowly increasing the level of challenge as his confidence grew. Equally important was the emotional support he received. His teachers gently encouraged him to answer questions in class, to stand and present, and to join his peers during playtime. They created a safe environment where Sammy felt seen, supported, and capable.

At home, his parents played a vital role in reinforcing this progress. They worked closely with the teachers, seeking guidance on how to support their son beyond the classroom. Following the school’s advice, they reduced his screen time and involved him in simple but effective activities like sorting beans and rice—small tasks that strengthened his coordination. They encouraged him to engage in light physical activities such as jogging and made sure he had opportunities to play with other children in the neighborhood. Their consistency and patience became a strong pillar in Sammy’s growth.

Today, Sammy is a completely transformed child.

Academically, he can now confidently hold a pencil and write letters, words, sentences, and even short texts. His artwork reflects remarkable improvement —he pays attention to margins and boundaries, and his coloring and painting are much clearer and more controlled.

Behaviorally, the change is just as powerful. Sammy no longer isolates himself. He interacts freely with his classmates, chats comfortably, and willingly answers questions during lessons. He actively participates in group assignments, showing a sense of belonging that was once missing.

Even more inspiring are his strengths. Sammy now demonstrates precision in practical life activities, carefully completing tasks that once seemed impossible. During physical education, he shows determination, often pushing himself to complete more complex activities with growing confidence. Sammy’s journey is a powerful reminder that growth does not happen overnight—but with patience, consistency, and collaboration, it always comes. Through the dedication of his teachers and the unwavering support of his parents, Sammy has moved from hesitation to confidence, from isolation to connection.

Today, school is no longer a place of struggle for Sammy. It is a place where he thrives, explores, and believes in his own abilities—a place where a once- quiet boy is now boldly writing his own story. 

Mama Belyse
Family of Hagari

Building Hope One Step at A Time

Alphonsine is a resilient mother of three children, living with her husband and raising a family of five. Her journey reflects determination, faith, and the power of consistent effort supported by community empowerment.

Alphonsine joined a Hagari Rwanda savings group with a vision to improve her family’s livelihood. With a starting capital of 5,000 Rwandan francs ($3.45), she launched a small vegetable business near her home, selling items such as carrots, eggplants, tomatoes, and onions. She focused not only on selling but also on building trust with her customers, even offering home delivery services to strengthen relationships and grow her client base.

Through discipline and perseverance, Alphonsine successfully grew her business capital from 5,000 RWF ($3.45) to 20,000 RWF ($13.79). She now earns an average daily profit of 3,000 RWF ($2.07), which has significantly contributed to her household’s stability. Together with her husband, she adopted a structured savings strategy, contributing to three different savings groups: 1,000 RWF (69 cents) daily, 2,000 RWF ($1.38) weekly, and 4,000 RWF ($2.76) weekly. Her husband complements these efforts through casual labor, supporting rent and other basic family needs. Their collaboration and joint financial decision-making have strengthened their partnership and family unity.

After stabilizing her business, Alphonsine set a new and ambitious goal—to acquire land. Despite initially targeting land worth 300,000 RWF ($207), her continued commitment to saving enabled her to surpass this goal. She successfully purchased a plot of land valued at 600,000 RWF ($414) (10m x 20m) in Bugesera District, Eastern Province, marking a major milestone in her journey toward long-term security.

Her path, however, was not without challenges. Alphonsine faced multiple setbacks, including the confiscation of her goods due to informal trading and being repeatedly chased from her selling location. She also endured physical strain during pregnancy while caring for a young child. Despite these hardships, she remained steadfast and refused to give up. Her resilience and work ethic continue to define her progress.

Alphonsine expresses deep gratitude to Hagari Rwanda for its holistic support to her family, particularly in covering her child’s school fees. This assistance eased her financial burden and allowed her to focus on expanding her business. She also values the consistent follow-up and encouragement from the social worker, which has played a key role in maintaining family unity and focus.

Beyond economic growth, Alphonsine experienced a profound spiritual transformation. Through Hagari’s teachings, she gained a deeper understanding of God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. During one of the sessions, she made a personal decision to accept Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. Today, she actively participates in church and testifies that the Word of God has nurtured patience and forgiveness in her life, strengthening her relationship with her husband.

She also celebrates the positive development of her child, who is growing into a responsible and intelligent young girl—an outcome that brings her great joy and hope for the future.

In her own words, Alphonsine shares her heartfelt appreciation:

“Thank you for teaching our children and caring for us as a family. May God bless you and provide all that you need. May Hagari Rwanda continue to grow and impact many more lives." - Alphonsine
Claudine 1
Family of Hagari

Rewriting the Future

Before joining Hagari Rwanda, Claudine’s (Mama Abbia) life was marked by a season of deep uncertainty. When her husband lost his job, the family’s only source of income disappeared almost overnight. With no savings to rely on, each day became a struggle to meet even the most basic needs. In a painful attempt to survive, they began selling their household belongings—furniture, kitchen utensils—anything they could exchange for food.

At home, Claudine cared for her two young children. Though she longed to contribute financially, she felt held back by her limited communication skills, especially her lack of confidence in speaking English. This made it difficult for her to pursue opportunities, leaving her feeling stuck and discouraged.

Then, a turning point came. Her husband found another job, offering a small but steady source of income. Around the same time, Abbia (Claudine’s daughter) was accepting into Hagari’s Student Partnership Program and Claudine joined Hagari’s Family Development Program (FDP)—a moment that would begin to reshape their story.

Through the program, Claudine was introduced to financial management, budgeting, and the importance of saving. She embraced these lessons wholeheartedly. Determined to change their situation, she and her husband made a bold decision: to start saving, no matter how little they had. Together, they opened a bank account and began setting aside small amounts with discipline and consistency.

Slowly, things began to change.

Even as they worked through their debts, they remained committed to their new financial habits. Over time, their efforts bore fruit. Today, the family has built an emergency fund capable of sustaining them for up to four months—a milestone that once seemed out of reach.

With renewed stability, they have restored dignity in their home, replacing the items they once had to sell. They now have a sofa, a bed set with a mattress, kitchen utensils, and even a television. Claudine has also applied knowledge from Hagari’s nutrition trainings, ensuring her children receive balanced meals. The impact is visible—her children are healthy, growing, and well cared for.

Looking ahead, Claudine and her husband now dream beyond survival. They have set a long-term goal to purchase land within the next ten years and build a home of their own—leaving behind the uncertainty of renting.

In addition, through a recently introduced English learning program at Hagari, Claudine seized the opportunity to improve her communication skills. She is gradually building confidence in expressing herself and continues to show encouraging progress.

Claudine’s journey is one of quiet strength and transformation. Through resilience, willingness to learn, and the support of Hagari Rwanda, she has moved her family from a place of crisis to one of stability. Today, their story is no longer defined by struggle, but by hope, purpose, and the promise of a brighter future.

Quente 2
Inzozi AcademyStudent Story

A Voice Unfolding

Meet Quente, a 12-year-old learner in Primary Three whose journey is a quiet but powerful story of growth and transformation.

When Quente first joined the class, he was extremely timid and withdrawn. The classroom, filled with voices, movement, and collaboration, felt overwhelming to him. He often kept to himself, avoiding group activities and shying away from presenting his work. Interacting with others was particularly challenging, and he struggled to find his place among his peers.

Academically, Quente had the ability, but his fear of speaking and engaging held him back. Group discussions, oral presentations, and even team-based activities in Physical Education were areas of difficulty. He preferred working alone, where he felt safe, but this limited his growth in both confidence and collaboration.

Yet, beneath the quietness was a spark waiting to be nurtured.

With intentional support from his teachers, Quente began a gradual journey of change. They guided him patiently, helping him understand the importance of teamwork and creating safe opportunities for him to participate. He was encouraged to share ideas and engage in group tasks. Presentations started in small, familiar groups, allowing him to build confidence step by step until he could eventually speak on his own.

At the same time, his parents played a vital role in reinforcing this growth. His mother closely monitored his progress and ensured that the same encouragement extended beyond the classroom. Recognizing the importance of teamwork, she enrolled him in a football academy, where he could practice collaboration and build social confidence in a different environment.

Slowly but surely, Quente began to change.

Today, he is no longer the timid boy who avoided participation. Academically, he confidently shares ideas with classmates and presents his work without fear. His voice, once hesitant, is now growing stronger with each opportunity he takes.

Behaviorally, he has embraced the value of teamwork. In fact, he has become one of the students who help organize teams during playtime—a remarkable shift from the boy who once struggled to engage with others. He now understands that success is not just about individual effort, but about working together.

One of Quente’s standout strengths is in Mathematics. His ability in the subject is exceptional, often solving problems from Primary Four—well above his current level. This strength continues to shine as his confidence grows in other areas.

While he is still a work in progress—occasionally losing track of his thoughts when speaking—his progress is undeniable. Each attempt he makes is a step forward, and his willingness to try reflects a learner who is steadily finding his voice.

Quente’s story is a testament to the impact of patience, collaboration, and consistent support. With dedicated teachers guiding him and supportive parents reinforcing his growth, he is becoming the confident, capable learner he was always meant to be.

And though his journey is still unfolding, one thing is certain—Quente is well on his way, and his future is full of promise.

1.Trauma Retreat 2026
Youth Ministry

From Hidden Pain to Healing and Hope – A Transformative Journey

What began as a simple gathering of 27 young people at Agahozo Shalom Youth Village became something far deeper—a powerful journey into healing, truth, and transformation.

Over the course of the trauma healing retreat, young men and women between the ages of 16 and 25 were invited into a space many had never entered before: a space to pause, reflect, and confront the pain they had long carried in silence. What emerged was not just individual breakthrough, but a shared experience that deeply impacted every participant.

David arrived at the retreat convinced he did not have any major struggles. But as the sessions unfolded, he began to uncover layers of unspoken emotions and hidden pain.

“I realized there were things inside me I had never faced.”

One of the most profound moments for David came through the theme of forgiveness. He found the courage to forgive his father for past wounds—something he had carried for years. That decision brought him peace and opened the door to restored communication between them for the first time in a long time.

The retreat also introduced participants to the practice of lament—giving them permission to express their pain, confusion, and even their questions toward God. For David, this was a turning point. It allowed him to be honest about what he could not understand, while learning to release what he could not control.

As the days went on, many participants began to open up about their emotions. What started as hesitation turned into deep vulnerability. Together, they discovered they were not alone.

“It felt like a heavy weight was lifted… like chains were broken,” David shared.

Through learning the Cycle of Grief—moving from loss and grief to denial and anger, then to hope and new beginnings—the young people began to understand how unaddressed pain shapes their lives and relationships. More importantly, they learned that healing is possible.

For Chanceline, the retreat was both deeply challenging and profoundly meaningful. She cherished the quiet moments of connection—studying together with the trainer and gathering around the campfire in the evenings. These moments created a safe space where walls came down and trust began to grow.

One of the most powerful experiences for her came during a session where participants reflected on personal memories. As stories surfaced, so did emotions. Many found themselves crying together.

“We realized how much we had been carrying inside.”

This shared vulnerability became a turning point—not just for Chanceline, but for the entire group.

Throughout the retreat, she learned the importance of forgiveness, the courage to express emotions, and the danger of emotional numbness. Like David, she had believed she did not have any real problems. But through the process, she came to see the deeper areas of her life that needed healing.

Though difficult, this realization marked the beginning of her growth.

She also walked away with a renewed sense of faith:

“I understood that God is present and sovereign in every part of my life.”

By the end of the week, it was clear—no one left unchanged.

What started as hidden pain became a journey toward healing. What was once silence became shared stories. And what felt like isolation became connection.

Each young person left stronger, more self-aware, and filled with hope.

For David, for Chanceline, and for every participant, this retreat was not just an experience—it was the beginning of a new chapter.

Keza 2
Inzozi Academy

A Story of Belonging and Growth at Inzozi Academy

At Inzozi Academy, we believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to grow, contribute, and feel a genuine sense of belonging. As a Christ-centered school committed to nurturing each child’s academic, spiritual, physical, social, and emotional growth, inclusion is not just a value we speak about—it is a principle we intentionally put into practice.

Our partnership with Rwanda Down Syndrome Organization (RDSO) has given us a meaningful opportunity to live out this belief. When RDSO approached us with the opportunity to have Keza as an intern, we welcomed her wholeheartedly into our school family. Their mission to create workplace opportunities for young adults with Down syndrome—through internships, part-time, and full-time roles—beautifully aligns with our commitment to dignity, social participation, and holistic development.

Keza, our RDSO Intern

Keza joined our kitchen department, becoming part of the team that supports the daily nourishment and wellbeing of our learners. From the very beginning, she made a remarkable impression. Energetic, joyful, and hardworking, Keza approaches her responsibilities with enthusiasm and dedication. She follows instructions carefully, completes tasks efficiently, and requires minimal supervision. Her reliability and consistency have strengthened the team’s workflow, while her warm personality has brought a refreshing spirit into the department.

At Inzozi Academy, we pride ourselves on fostering a nurturing and enriching environment where every individual is encouraged to dream big and develop their full potential. Keza’s journey reflects this very vision. Over time, we have seen her confidence grow significantly. Her communication skills have improved, enabling her to interact comfortably with staff members and integrate smoothly into the wider school community. She greets colleagues with confidence, carries out her duties with pride, and demonstrates an increasing level of independence.

The impact of this opportunity extends far beyond workplace skills. Each day, Keza arrives with excitement and leaves with a sense of accomplishment. She is not simply completing tasks—she is building competence, self-belief, and a stronger sense of identity. Most importantly, she feels valued and accepted as an essential member of our community. This sense of belonging is transformative. It reinforces that inclusion is not about charity; it is about recognizing capability and creating equitable opportunities for contribution.

For us at Inzozi Academy, this partnership has also been deeply enriching. It has reminded our staff and learners alike that education goes beyond the classroom. As a school that emphasizes creativity, curiosity, and lifelong learning, we understand that growth happens in many forms. By creating space for inclusion within our operations, we are modeling compassion, respect, and social responsibility to our students—values that shape them into empathetic and responsible citizens.

Through our collaboration with RDSO, we are not only providing work experience; we are actively contributing to a culture where diversity is embraced and potential is recognized. Seeing Keza thrive affirms why inclusive opportunities matter. Her progress is a testament to what is possible when institutions open their doors with intention and heart.

Inzozi Academy has truly been the dream of its founders—a place where holistic education and community values intersect. Welcoming Keza into our family has strengthened that dream. We are proud to be part of her journey and grateful for the partnership with RDSO as we continue empowering young adults to reach their full potential and experience the dignity of meaningful work.

Project Serve 2025.2
Project Serve

A Home Built with Hope

Before Mama Jean Claude was enrolled in the Give A Hand program, her family of five was living in constant survival-mode. Each day revolved around care, exhaustion, and uncertainty.

Jean Claude was born with severe physical disabilities. His legs were too weak to support him, and he was unable to use the restroom independently. He depended entirely on his mother for even the most basic daily needs. For Mama Jean Claude, this meant providing continuous care from morning until night. Workingoutside the home was impossible, and even simple household tasks were often leftundone because her son required her constant attention.

Mama Jean Claude and her son

Her husband worked hard to earn what little income he could so there would be food on the table. Still, it was never enough. The meals were small, and the needs were overwhelming. The children carried responsibilities far beyond their years, stepping in wherever they could because their mother simply could not do it all. Poverty weighed heavily on the family, not only physically but emotionally.

The struggle did not go unnoticed by neighbors, yet compassion was not always the response. Because of her son’s disabilities, Mama Jean Claude often felt over looked and isolated within her own community. What began as physical fatigue slowly grew into deep loneliness. She felt invisible and misunderstood, trapped inside a fragile home that offered little safety or comfort. The house itself was in critical condition. There was no electricity, no light after sunset. Evenings were spent in darkness. Cooking was difficult and sometimes unsafe, and caring for Jean Claude at night became an added challenge. The absence of stability affected every part of their lives.

Everything began to change when the family was registered with Give A Hand. Jean Claude started receiving targeted physical therapy to strengthen his muscles andimprove his mobility. Regular home visits provided more than practical support; they restored a sense of dignity and connection. For the first time in a long time, Mama Jean Claude felt seen not defined by her son’s condition, but recognized as a mother doing everything in her power to care for her child.

When it became clear that their home was no longer safe to live in, a new step was taken. Through Project Serve, young people from Hagari joined hands with six young people from the Netherlands in a powerful expression of unity and shared faith. In August 2025, they traveled together to Burera and, side by side with the local community, built a new house for the family.

What was constructed was far more than a physical structure. It was safety where there had been insecurity, light where there had been darkness, and hope where there had been despair. The project was not only about building walls and a roof, but also about building friendships, strengthening faith, and showing what it means to serve one another across cultures and continents. The new home brought electricity, making evenings safer and daily routines more manageable. Cooking became easier, and caring for Jean Claude after sunset was no longer a struggle.

What started as a practical need became a testimony of love in action, young people standing together to make a lasting difference.

The move to a new neighborhood brought an unexpected and beautiful transformation. The family was warmly welcomed. Instead of being avoided, they were embraced. Instead of silence, there were words of affirmation. Neighbors began saying that Jean Claude is a blessing to this world. Those words carried profound healing for a mother who had once felt so alone.

Meanwhile, Jean Claude himself began making remarkable progress. His legs grew significantly stronger, and he reached a milestone that once seemed impossible: he can now walk to the restroom independently. Each step represents not only physical improvement but also restored dignity and a future filled with possibility. 

What once felt like a life defined by limitation is now a story marked by growth.

Today, Jean Claude is loved in his community, and Mama Jean Claude stands as a strong and resilient woman. Her dream is that more children like her son will receive the help they need and that no mother will have to carry such a burden alone. She hopes that with the stability they now have, she will one day be able to work and contribute financially to her family.

Despite the hardships she has endured, she continues to persevere with unwavering faith and determination. Her story is no longer one of isolation and survival, but one of transformation, dignity, and hope that continues to grow.

Sushina learning
Inzozi AcademyStudent Story

Finding Her Way Again

Sushina joined Inzozi Academy as a bright and curious child who began her educational journey with promise. At just ten years old and now in Primary 3, Sushina has been part of the Inzozi family since Nursery school. From the very beginning, she stood out as an intelligent and lively little girl. With the care, patience, and attentiveness of her teachers, she gradually grew into a bold, confident, and smart learner who enjoyed participating in class activities. Her early years at school were marked by steady progress and enthusiasm for learning.

However, as Sushina transitioned into Primary 3, something began to change. The class introduced new academic demands, and the learning content became heavier and more complex than what she had previously experienced. This sudden shift overwhelmed her. Instead of facing the new challenges head-on, Sushina began to withdraw from her responsibilities. Tasks that once excited her started piling up, and she gradually developed habits of disorganization and irresponsibility.

Her teachers noticed the change almost immediately. The once energetic and engaged learner was now struggling to keep up with assignments, particularly in English language lessons. She often left tasks unfinished and appeared distracted during lessons. What worried the teachers even more was that the same pattern was also happening at home. When they spoke with her father, he confirmed that Sushina had also become disorganized in her daily routines and less responsible with her chores.

Rather than criticizing or labeling her as a careless student, Sushina’s teachers chose to approach the situation with understanding and compassion. They realized that the sudden change in academic expectations from the lower classes to Primary 3 had overwhelmed her. Instead of punishing her mistakes, they focused on finding ways to guide and support her back to stability.

Her teachers began encouraging her and reassuring her that she was still capable of succeeding in this new class. They reminded her of the intelligent and confident learner she had always been. To help rebuild her sense of responsibility, they started giving her structured assignments and closely monitored her progress. Multiple tasks were assigned at the same time, but she was held accountable for completing each one. This approach gradually helped her develop better organizational skills and learn how to manage her responsibilities.

At the same time, the teachers worked closely with Sushina’s parents to ensure that the support continued at home. Television time was reduced at home and she was encouraged instead to focus on completing her household chores before moving on to other activities. Following this guidance, her parents created a more structured routine at home, reinforcing the same sense of accountability that her teachers were building at school.

Slowly but surely, Sushina began to regain her footing. With consistent encouragement from both her teachers and parents, she started completing her assignments at school and her chores at home. Her confidence gradually returned, and the sense of responsibility that had once faded began to grow stronger again.

Today, Sushina is doing much better both mentally and academically. She now shows greater concentration in her studies and takes her responsibilities more seriously. Her teachers have also noticed that she excels particularly in practical activities. She demonstrates strong creativity and leadership when organizing role plays and participating in class presentations, areas where her confidence truly shines.

Sushina’s journey is a powerful reminder that sometimes students do not fail because they lack ability, but because they need guidance when facing new challenges. With the support of observant teachers and committed parents, she was able to overcome a difficult phase and rediscover her potential.

Her story stands as a testament to the impact of patience, encouragement, and teamwork between school and home. With the right support system, every child can regain confidence, grow in responsibility, and continue moving forward on their path to success.

Jeshua2
Inzozi AcademyStudent Story

The Power of a Strong Foundation

Meet Jeshua, a bright seven-year-old girl in Primary One, the second born in her family, whose journey is a beautiful reminder that growth takes time, patience, and love.

When Jeshua first joined school, her world felt small and guarded. Though she had been welcomed into the Hagari family back in Nursery One, her early days were marked by silence. She was very quiet, often keeping her thoughts to herself, as if her words were locked behind an invisible door. Expressing herself did not come easily. In class, while other children eagerly raised their hands, Jeshua would lower her gaze, hoping not to be noticed.

Reading, too, was a mountain she struggled to climb. Letters seemed confusing, words felt heavy, and lessons that required reading often left her frustrated. The difficulty in understanding texts made working through her assignments more challenging than it needed to be. Behind her silence was not a lack of ability, but uncertainty — and sometimes anger.

Jeshua wrestled with feelings she did not fully understand. When she felt overwhelmed, her frustration would show. She struggled with anger, and because she could not always communicate her thoughts clearly, misunderstandings happened. At times, interacting with classmates became difficult. Sharing materials during playtime felt like a challenge, and group work sometimes turned into moments of tension rather than teamwork. It was clear that Jeshua needed more than academic instruction; she needed guidance, patience, and a safe space to grow.

Her transformation has been a journey — not an overnight miracle. Since being taken in by Hagari in Nursery One, she has been nurtured with intention. The foundation laid in her early years became the soil in which change would slowly, steadily take root.

Her teachers played a remarkable role in this journey. They saw beyond the quiet exterior and the flashes of anger. Instead of labeling her, they leaned closer. Through gentle one-on-one discussions, they created moments where Jeshua felt heard. In those quiet conversations, she began to find her voice. Her teachers also set aside extra time specifically for reading. Patiently, letter by letter and word by word, they guided her through storybooks, helping her decode sounds and build confidence. They celebrated her small victories — a correctly read sentence, a clearly expressed thought — and those celebrations became stepping stones toward greater growth.

At home, Jeshua’s parents became active partners in her development. They spoke to her about the importance of working well with others and guided her on how to manage her emotions positively. They encouraged kindness, sharing, and cooperation.

Communication between her parents and teachers remained consistent, ensuring that Jeshua received unified support both at school and at home. When she carried her storybooks home, her parents gently reminded her to read, reinforcing the efforts made in class. Their encouragement created continuity — a bridge between school and home that strengthened her progress.

Slowly, change began to unfold.

Academically, Jeshua’s reading skills improved noticeably. Words that once seemed intimidating began to make sense. She started recognizing patterns, sounding out letters with growing ease, and understanding the stories she read. More importantly, her confidence blossomed. The once-quiet girl began to raise her hand. She started expressing her thoughts more clearly and participating actively in lessons. Her ideas, once hidden, now flowed freely.

Behaviorally, the transformation was equally inspiring. The anger that once created barriers gradually softened. Jeshua learned healthier ways to express her feelings. She began interacting well with her classmates and grew comfortable in group settings. Sharing materials during playtime no longer felt like a burden. Instead, she found joy in collaboration. She actively contributes to group assignments and enjoys playing and spending time with her peers. Laughter now replaces tension; teamwork has replaced isolation.

Today, Jeshua stands as a confident and eager learner. She walks into her classroom not with hesitation, but with readiness. She engages, she reads, she collaborates, and she smiles more freely. The quiet child who once struggled to communicate has grown into a young girl who shares her ideas with clarity and courage.

Jeshua’s journey is a powerful testimony to what consistent support can accomplish. It reflects the impact of teachers who invest beyond the lesson plan, parents who reinforce positive values at home, and a nurturing foundation laid early through Hagari’s care. Her story reminds us that transformation is rarely instant. It is built day by day — through patience, guidance, encouragement, and love.

For Jeshua, school is no longer a place of frustration or silence. It is a place of growth, friendship, and possibility. And as she continues her journey, one thing is certain: with the strong foundation beneath her and the support around her, Jeshua is ready to rise even higher.

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.