08Nov2025
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Author: adminHagari
Family of Hagari
October 22, 2025

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.

 
Family of HagariStudent Story
October 22, 2025

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.

Inzozi AcademyStudent Story
October 22, 2025

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.

Family of Hagari
October 22, 2025

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.

Project Serve
October 16, 2025

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.

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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.

Family of Hagari
September 10, 2025

Roots of Hope: How Hagari Changed Our Home

Life before Hagari was like walking through a storm. Our marriage was weighed down by constant arguments, disrespect, and conflict. Home—meant to be a place of rest—felt more like a battlefield. We lived in a small, crowded house where tension filled the air, and even though I worked tirelessly, my efforts bore little fruit. 

Profits slipped through my fingers, debts piled high, and I sank deeper into financial stress with every passing day.

I tried joining savings groups, hoping for a way out. But because of my frequent borrowing, I remained chained to debt, always struggling to repay what I owed. It was a painful season—marked by scarcity, shame, and silent tears.

Solange
Also known as Mama Jeshua
When Hagari Came Into Our Lives

Then, like light breaking through a dark sky, Hagari came into our lives. At first, it was my child who received the opportunity to study in a good school. But soon, we realized that Hagari was not only shaping the future of our child, Jeshua, but also reshaping our entire family.

We were taught how to live in harmony, to respect one another, and to walk in unity. Slowly, the walls of conflict that had divided us began to crumble. I learned humility, and with it, I discovered the beauty of respecting and honoring my husband. Today, even when disagreements arise, we sit together, talk, and resolve our issues peacefully. Our home is no longer a battlefield, but a place of warmth and partnership.

Financial Wisdom and Growth

Another turning point was the gift of financial wisdom. Before, I worked hard but wasted money on fleeting pleasures. I had no goals, no vision—only exhaustion and loss. Through Hagari’s teaching, I discovered the power of saving, planning, and denying short-term desires for long-term stability.

My husband and I started small—a charcoal business with just three sacks. We nurtured it carefully, like planting seeds in fertile soil. Over time, those seeds grew. Three sacks became thirty, and with discipline, our debts shrank. Today, we live in a larger, more comfortable home with three rooms—a visible sign of how far we’ve come.

Parenting With Love

Hagari’s lessons also touched the heart of my parenting. I used to silence my children’s voices and discipline them in anger. Now, I listen. I understand. I guide with love and correct with patience. My children feel heard, valued, and secure—and that, to me, is one of the greatest transformations of all.

In Conclusion

Hagari has been more than an organization to us; it has been a lifeline. Spiritually, we are stronger. Relationally, we are united. Financially, we are growing. From a home once marked by conflict and lack, we are now building a future with peace, respect, and hope.

We are forever grateful to Hagari—for the teachings, the support, and the love that has rewritten our story.

Student Story
August 26, 2025

“Because of Hagari, My Dreams Are Alive” by Sarah

When I think about my life, it’s like reading a book with two very different chapters— one before Hagari, and one after.

In the first chapter, my world felt small. School was not a place I could belong to—it was something I only watched from a distance. Every morning, I would see other children, dressed neatly in their uniforms, walking to class with their books tucked under their arms. I would stand at the doorway of our home, my heart aching, wondering if my life would always be defined by “what could have been.” My family barely had enough for food, let alone school fees or supplies. My dreams felt like stars—beautiful, but impossibly far away.

And then… the story shifted.
Hagari entered my life like a light piercing through a long night. They didn’t see me as a statistic or a burden—they saw me as someone worth investing in, a seed that could grow if only given a chance.

From nursery school to now, as I complete Senior Three, they have paid my school fees, bought my books, and placed hope in my hands.

But their gift was more than education. They became my family. They taught me values that shaped not just my mind but my heart—patience when life is slow to change, persistence when the road gets steep, and faith when the path ahead seems uncertain. They didn’t just help me—they helped my mother, too. They placed a sewing machine in her hands, turning her skills into income. They filled our home not only with opportunity but also with the Word of God. Through Bible study, they gave us a foundation stronger than any storm. 

Because of Hagari, my dreams are no longer distant stars—they are within reach. I have learned that every hurdle can be a stepping stone, that yesterday’s failures do not define tomorrow’s victories. I now believe I can change my life, support my family, and give back to my country.

I have learned to love as I have been loved—to serve, to share, and to lift others as I have been lifted. My greatest wish is to pass on the same gift that was given to me: the chance to rise above poverty and step boldly into a future filled with possibility.

To my Hagari family—thank you. Thank you for your sacrifices, your belief in me, and your presence in every season of my life. I am who I am because you chose to care. My success will forever be your legacy. 

Family of Hagari
August 26, 2025

SEEDS OF HOPE: Oliva’s Journey with Hagari

Oliva (Mama Happy), the sixth of eleven siblings, has faced significant hardships—including the painful loss of four of her brothers and sisters. A devoted mother of four, she and her husband once relied on irregular and low-paying jobs that barely sustained their family.

Her older children were enrolled in public schools where fees were more manageable. However, as her younger son, Gaju, neared school age, Oliva was filled with worry. With their financial situation stretched thin, she saw no clear path forward for his education.

But then, hope arrived through Hagari Rwanda.

Thanks to Hagari’s educational sponsorship, Gaju was welcomed into a quality school—one even better than the schools his older siblings had attended. This opportunity was a turning point for the family, easing their financial burden and allowing the other children to continue their studies without disruption.

Hagari Rwanda’s support extended beyond education. During a home visit, a social worker encouraged the family to start saving money. This conversation became a catalyst for change —Oliva’s husband gained new motivation, stopped being selective about work, and began seeking every available opportunity. Today, he continues to work diligently, and the family is beginning to see real transformation.

“I never imagined my son would attend such a good school. Hagari made the impossible possible,” shares Mama Gaju.

Please join us in praying for Oliva’s family as they continue their journey toward stability— and thank you for being part of the community that empowers families like theirs through Hagari Rwanda. 

Inzozi AcademyStudent Story
July 16, 2025

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
July 16, 2025

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
July 16, 2025

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. 

Inzozi AcademyStudent Story
June 9, 2025

Sugira: Finding His Voice Lifted Him Up

Before finding his voice at Inzozi Academy, Sugira faced a quiet—but deeply impactful—challenge: speaking in front of others.

Though bright and thoughtful, he often held back during group activities. He had great ideas, but fear of making mistakes or being judged kept him silent. This hesitation didn’t just affect his participation—it also limited his confidence and engagement in other subjects.

Thankfully, two of his teachers, Ms. Esther and Ms. Merissa, noticed what was happening. They saw Sugira’s potential and chose to respond with patience and intentionality. Rather than pushing him to speak up in uncomfortable ways, they introduced thoughtful strategies to help him grow at his own pace.

One key strategy was assigning him leadership roles during group work. As the team leader, Sugira was given the responsibility of coordinating classmates and guiding group tasks. Though hesitant at first, the supportive classroom environment helped him take the leap. Slowly, he began stepping into the role with more confidence.

Another breakthrough came when he was encouraged to present his group’s work to the class. At first, standing in front of his peers felt overwhelming. But with gentle guidance and consistent encouragement from his teachers, Sugira started to speak—nervously at first, but with growing strength each time. Every presentation became a step toward greater confidence.

As he grew more comfortable expressing himself, the impact spread beyond public speaking. Sugira began participating more in class, asking questions, and engaging with his schoolwork in a new way. The fear that once held him back was replaced by a deepening sense of self-assurance.

Today, Sugira is not the same student he once was. He speaks with clarity and purpose, leads with confidence, and fully participates in classroom life. His journey is a beautiful reminder of what’s possible when teachers look past a student’s silence and choose to nurture their potential.

At Inzozi Academy, transformation doesn’t always happen loudly—but it does happen powerfully.