08Nov2025
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Student Story

Category: Student Story

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

Project ServeStudent Story
June 9, 2025

Emmanuel: How Hagari Transformed My Life

When I was in primary school, learning was something I loved—but fear and uncertainty followed me into the classroom every day. My family was large, with six children, and my father struggled to provide for us all. Sometimes, only one term’s school fees would be paid for the entire academic year. I was often sent home due to unpaid fees, making it nearly impossible to study in peace. At times, I had little hope of ever finishing school.

But everything changed when Hagari came into my life.

Hagari began covering my school fees, and that support brought back something I had lost—hope. With the weight of financial stress lifted, I was able to study with joy and renewed motivation. My academic performance improved significantly, and I began to see real progress in my grades.

Beyond financial support, Hagari gave me opportunities to grow in many areas. One of the most impactful experiences was joining Project Serve—a program where students come together to serve families in need. Through it, I developed a strong work ethic and discovered the value of service. I learned important life skills like communication, public speaking, and teamwork, which continue to help me today.

Thanks to those experiences, I was able to find small jobs during school holidays—something I couldn’t have done before. Hagari’s investment in me wasn’t just academic or professional—it was also spiritual. Through regular teachings, they helped deepen my relationship with God. They taught us the importance of prayer, reading the Bible, and living with purpose. That foundation of faith still guides my life today.

Another area of personal growth was reading. Before joining Hagari, I struggled with both Kinyarwanda and English. But through Hagari’s reading program, I learned to read fluently in both languages. I can now understand English and even speak it with growing confidence. I used to fear speaking in public, but today I can express myself clearly in front of others—a change I never thought possible.

In short, I am a changed person because of the incredible impact Hagari has had on my life. They didn’t just help me stay in school—they believed in me, equipped me, and helped me grow into the person I am today.

I am deeply grateful for all they have done—and continue to do—for me.

Student Story
June 9, 2025

A Quiet Shift: Harriet’s Story of Change

Before joining Hagari Rwanda, Harriet’s life was filled with worry and uncertainty. She often found herself anxious about her family’s future—especially when it came to her first child’s education. “I had no idea where she would go to school,” Harriet shares. “Every day felt like I was trying to figure things out without enough support.”

But when her daughter was accepted into the Hagari program, everything began to shift.

Through Hagari’s support, Harriet’s daughter was able to transfer to Inzozi Academy—a school with a more nurturing and supportive learning environment. “She used to struggle and often ranked near the bottom of her class,” Harriet explains. “Now she consistently performs well. That alone brought me a lot of peace.”

Harriet’s journey didn’t stop with her daughter’s progress. As a parent, she also began participating in Hagari’s family training sessions. These sessions introduced her to new skills—most notably, self-control and patience. “I used to clash with my husband over small issues,” she says. “But now I’ve learned to stay calm and approach things with more understanding. It’s improved our relationship and brought more peace into our home.”

One training that made a particularly lasting impact on Harriet was about self-reliance. “I used to depend entirely on my husband, even to start a small business,” she says. When he refused to give her the capital she requested, Harriet took matters into her own hands. She began sewing clothes and used the small income she earned to start saving. Even grocery money, when carefully managed, became an opportunity to set aside a little extra.

With time and persistence, Harriet expanded her work. She continued sewing and began selling children’s shoes. “Hagari helped me realize that saving doesn’t require a lot of money—just consistency and discipline,” she explains. That mindset has transformed how she handles daily responsibilities, especially during the times her husband is away.

Recently, Harriet even took a bold step toward future independence: she applied for a national identification document so she could pursue a motorcycle driving license. “My husband didn’t fully support the idea,” she says, “but I chose to move forward anyway. I want to be able to support our family—with or without help.”

Throughout her journey, Harriet has leaned on the guidance of Hagari’s dedicated social workers. “They’ve given me direction and advice whenever I needed it,” she says. “Because of this program, I now think differently and manage my life more intentionally.”

Harriet’s story is one of quiet, determined transformation—a testament to how steady support, education, and encouragement can empower families to thrive.

“I’m truly grateful for all the positive changes that Hagari has brought to my family,” she says.

Student Story
April 7, 2025

The Journey of Theogene

Theogene
Biggest Smile Ever

Before joining Inzozi Academy, Theogene, a primary four student, struggled with his academic performance. Although he was repeating the class, Theogene often pretended to understand the lessons. His confidence masked a deeper challenge—he was grappling with reading comprehension, especially in English. At his previous school, he was used to cramming information, but when faced with the level of learning at Inzozi Academy, he realized he was far behind. It was a humbling experience to see even primary two students fluently reading and speaking English, and this left him feeling unsure of his own abilities.

The turning point for Theogene came when his teachers, Mr. Oliver and Miss Fabiola, noticed his struggles. They saw his potential, despite his challenges, and decided to intervene. They provided extra help during the mornings, focusing particularly on reading comprehension. The lessons they designed were not easy; they were aimed at challenging Theogene with questions that required critical thinking and creativity. This approach forced him to engage deeply with the material, stretching his abilities and forcing him to think in new ways.

One of the key factors in Theogene’s transformation was the small-sized classroom. The personalized attention from his teachers made a huge difference. Theogene wasn’t just another face in the crowd, he was an individual whose success mattered. His teachers, Mr. Oliver and Miss Fabiola, took the time to guide him through the complexities of reading comprehension, providing him with a level of support that wouldn’t have been possible in a larger classroom setting.

Today, Theogene’s improvement is evident. His reading comprehension is improving, a feat that once seemed impossible. He stands as a testimony to the impact of caring teachers, personalized attention, and a supportive environment. Theogene’s success story is a powerful reminder that, with the right guidance and support, every student has the potential to thrive.

Impact More Students Like Theogene
Inzozi AcademyStudent Story
April 7, 2025

Shakira’s Journey: From Fear to Confidence

Impact More Students Like Shakira!

Meet Shakira, a young girl who started her first term of school feeling fearful and unsure of herself. Coming from a home where the school environment felt completely different, she found it hard to adjust. The new faces, the unfamiliar teachers, and the bustling classroom seemed overwhelming. Shakira was shy, often sitting alone, not engaging with the activities or even showing much interest in learning.

Her hesitation stemmed from a place of uncertainty — everything around her felt challenging, and the thought of learning seemed like a distant dream. She was unsure about speaking, her English skills were limited, and she found it difficult to interact with her classmates. It was clear that the school environment, though new and exciting to others, was a tough transition for Shakira.

But then, something changed. It was the caring touch of two incredible teachers, Miss Sifa and Miss Mary, that turned Shakira’s experience around. They noticed her struggle and took the time to truly understand her needs. With patience, encouragement, and a whole lot of love, they made it their mission to make Shakira feel safe and welcome in the classroom.

Through their engaging teaching methods, Shakira began to see school in a new light. Miss Sifa and Miss Mary introduced fun, hands-on activities that made learning feel like an adventure rather than a chore. Slowly but surely, Shakira’s confidence grew. She started to enjoy her lessons and actively participate in class. Her spoken English improved significantly, and she began to confidently sound out letters and pronounce words with ease.

Counting numbers, once an intimidating task, became a game for her. Each day, Shakira was more excited to come to school, and her teachers were always there, supporting her every step of the way. They didn’t just teach her the lessons on the board; they taught her how to believe in herself.

Today, Shakira is a different child. She is no longer the fearful, shy girl she once was. With the love and support of her teachers, Shakira has blossomed into a confident, eager learner who now looks forward to each school day with excitement and joy. Her journey is a testament to the power of caring educators and how a little kindness and patience can change a child’s life forever.

Shakira’s story shows us that when teachers go beyond the curriculum and truly invest in their students, incredible transformations can happen. It’s not just about learning; it’s about growing, believing in oneself, and finding a place where you truly belong. And for Shakira, that place is now school — a place where she feels loved, supported, and ready to take on the world.

Student Story
March 11, 2025

Christian’s Growth Journey

Christian, a Nursery Two student, initially faced challenges in his learning journey. He struggled with concentration, often only engaging with a small group of classmates, and had difficulty with basic skills like counting and word decoding. His limited social interactions and academic struggles made it hard for him to fully engage in the classroom environment.

The turning point in Christian’s progress came when his teacher, Miss Gemima, recognized his potential and began offering one-on-one support. She tailored her lessons to his pace, providing encouragement and fostering a supportive learning environment. Through her personalized approach, Christian learned to balance his communication skills with better focus on his work, gradually gaining confidence.

As a result of this focused support, Christian’s social and academic development flourished. He began interacting more with his classmates and forming stronger connections. Academically, he improved in counting and began decoding words, marking significant progress in his literacy skills. Christian’s journey demonstrates the impact of personalized teaching and the power of a small, supportive classroom environment.

We are grateful for the skilled and compassionate teachers at Inzozi who truly take time to support and encourage students who are struggling. At many schools it is easy for students to fall through the cracks while the teacher gears their lessons that gives their attention to the stronger students. But at Inzozi we are committed to helping each student reach their potential and not letting anyone fall through the cracks.

Inzozi AcademyStudent Story
January 17, 2025

From Shy to Confident

Teacher Gemima, Nursery 2 Teacher, shares her thoughts about a student named Naillah and the transformation she has seen in her.

“At the beginning of each academic year, I am always excited to welcome the new learners joining my class after they have spent a full year in Nursery One, developing their characters and adapting to the learning environment. This year, one student who particularly caught my attention is Ineza Choice Naillah.

Naillah is generally a quiet, clean, and careful student. Initially, she struggled with shyness, which led her to keep her thoughts and desires to herself, making it difficult for teachers to understand her needs. Her participation in group activities was minimal, as she often seemed unsure of herself and hesitant to take pride in her work. This made it challenging for us as teachers to recognize her potential.

As her educators, we have encouraged Naillah to take more initiative, answer questions, and express herself more freely. We have discouraged chorus answers in class, instead allowing students to respond by raising their hands. This approach gives every child the opportunity to answer a question, which has significantly boosted their confidence. Now, during circle time, as well as story and singing periods, there is confidence in her voice and ideas. Her social interactions have also improved as she engages more with her peers, including those who were initially more active than she was.

One of the most significant changes in Naillah’s journey has been her newfound pride in her work. She now joyfully calls our attention when she has completed tasks and takes pride in her accomplishments. Even when her work is not perfect, she no longer gives up as she did before. Instead, she approaches her mistakes with resilience, restarting her work with energy and determination. This shift in mindset has boosted her confidence and made her stronger, more persistent, and eager to grow.”

– Teacher Gemima