08Nov2025
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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.

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. 

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.

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

Inzozi AcademyStudent Story
January 17, 2025

From Struggles To Success

Ntwali Joshua is a brilliant 5-year-old who has made incredible progress in his learning journey. His interest in learning is remarkable; he is intrinsically motivated and punctual. Although Joshua excels in many aspects of his academic life, he faces challenges in some areas—specifically, his pencil grasp, which has been below average. Upon noticing his struggles, the teachers became more intentional in providing support for Joshua.

While the other students used rounded pencils, Joshua was given a large, three-sided pencil. He started with writing simple letters and numbers. Thanks to his persistence, he has not only learned to write numbers correctly but can also do so independently—without needing to copy. His understanding of numbers extends beyond writing; he can relate each number to its corresponding quantity, demonstrating a deeper grasp of early math concepts.

Joshua’s progress didn’t stop there; he has also made significant strides in reading. He is now able to read short CVC (Consonant-Vowel-Consonant) sentences with confidence. This progress, once hard to imagine, has been a joy to witness and showcases the power of perseverance.

Having Joshua in class has been a true blessing, and we are excited about what the future holds for him. His journey proves that with the right tools, encouragement, and determination, incredible progress is possible. We believe Joshua is capable of even more, and his story will inspire others to believe in their potential and continue striving for academic excellence.

Family of HagariInzozi Academy
January 17, 2025

From Wandering To Walking In Purpose

Mama Moriya shares about her and her daughter’s experience with Hagari Rwanda after only 3 months of being part of the student partnership and family development plan programs!

 

“It is amazing to witness the extent to which quality education can holistically impact a child’s life. My daughter is a beneficiary of the excellent education provided by Inzozi Academy. Seeing my Moriya transform for the better is greatness unfolding before me. A lot has changed about my child. With only three months of schooling, she can confidently state her name, name her immediate family members, and express herself fairly well in English. Additionally, Moriya has developed good manners; she greets everyone upon arriving home.

There is a drastic difference in our lives before and after Moriya was accepted into the Hagari Rwanda student partnership program. Previously, she stayed home alone while I worked to support the family. I encouraged her to play with our neighbor’s children, but she often wandered beyond set boundaries,

meeting unfamiliar people and picking up bad manners and foul language.

Since she started school, her character has improved significantly through interactions with like-minded peers and ethical teachers.

I have also benefited from Hagari’s family support programs, especially Discipleship. Although I have been a Christian for many years, regularly attending church and reading my bible but, I had never fully understood salvation until Gaston (a Hagari Staff) taught it to us. I vividly remember the sessions about salvation, where Gaston used an illustrated diagram to explain the journey to salvation and how easy it is to drift away if one is not careful. I now know that salvation is the foundation of my Christian faith. When my husband lightly commented about the change in my conduct, it elated my heart, for I knew my effort in trying to live a purpose-driven Christian life was starting to bear fruit. 

As beneficiaries of Hagari Rwanda, we meet once a week, and I always look forward to this fellowship. Sometimes, circumstances prevent me from attending, and I feel disappointed, wondering what my colleagues have covered in my absence. I am grateful to Hagari Rwanda for the programs they offer to improve our lives.” -Mama Moriya

Inzozi AcademyStudent Story
November 20, 2024

Joy’s Journey To Confidence

Ms. Albertine provided insight into the progress Joy and the entire Primary 4 class have made during the half-term at Inzozi Academy. She explained, “My co-teachers and I welcomed this Primary 4 class in mid-September. We embarked on a journey to evaluate each child’s academic potential and behavior, aiming to establish a baseline that would inform us of the techniques and efforts required to help these students reach their full potential.”

Initially, Joy struggled with low self-confidence and had difficulties in several areas. She often appeared withdrawn, and her lack of self-assurance was evident in her approach to schoolwork. Additionally, her hygiene was lacking, and she seemed disengaged in her studies. While every student faced challenges, Joy’s situation required urgent attention for her to thrive.

Recognizing Joy’s potential, her teachers took a proactive approach to address her difficulties. They started by speaking with Joy and involving her mother, understanding that consistent support would be most effective through a collaborative effort. This partnership created opportunities for Joy’s success as they identified small, achievable steps aimed at building her confidence and personal care habits.

The teachers also arranged extra tutorials for Joy, dedicating additional time to help her navigate challenging subjects. These sessions allowed her to ask questions freely, develop foundational skills, and regain control over her learning journey. With this personalized support, Joy’s attitude began to shift. Gradually, she became more engaged, and her enthusiasm for learning has grown with each passing week.

“Joy’s story demonstrates how a little extra attention can significantly impact a life,” reflected her teacher, who has witnessed her growth firsthand. “She has worked incredibly hard, and now she’s one of our most enthusiastic learners. Seeing her confidence grow has been rewarding for everyone involved,” said Teacher Alba.

Inzozi AcademyStudent Story
November 20, 2024

Unlocking Ian’s Potential

On 16th September 2024, Ian walked through the gates of Inzozi Academy for the very first time. In a new environment, with new faces, Ian’s first week of school can be described as one of frequent tears and frustrations that ended up in emotional outbursts. For his teachers and classmates, those initial days were challenging as Ian’s reluctance to engage created an atmosphere of tension. However, his teachers saw beyond the difficult behavior; they recognized the vulnerability and committed themselves to helping him find his way in school.

Early childhood education calls for an incredible amount of patience and this is what the teachers have exercised with the learners at Inzozi Academy. Everyday, Ian’s teachers welcomed him with a warm smile and an open heart, creating an environment that was both structured and supportive.

By remaining steadfast in their approach, Ian’s teachers slowly helped him lower his defenses and become more accepting of others and interactive. With each small interaction, Ian felt a little safer, a little more seen, and gradually, he began to respond. As weeks go by, Ian is embracing his identity as a loved and cared for member of the Inzozi Academy community.

He has taken interest in music and singing, which has become his outlet for expressing emotions that words could not capture. Half way the school term, Ian can be seen raising his hand up to answer a question, and his voice can be heard in the many discussions that go on in class. Ms. Sifa, who has watched Ian blossom, reflects on his journey: “When Ian first came to us, he struggled with anger. He was rebellious, he resisted and resented authority, often clashing with others. But now, he is changed, we are delighted by his quick integration and the progress made.”

Ian’s story highlights the importance of empathy and patience in education. His transformation embodies Inzozi Academy’s commitment to every child’s potential, proving that with a compassionate environment, even the most challenging journeys can lead to growth. Today, Ian stands as a reminder of how powerful a supportive community can be in helping a child overcome barriers, embrace change, and grow into a confident, compassionate individual.

Student Story
June 19, 2024

Adversity to Achievement

Godwin, a Primary One student at Inzozi Academy, was born into challenging circumstances. Her mother, only 18, struggled to care for her in a dysfunctional home. From the start, Godwin faced numerous obstacles, that could have easily derailed her education, including poor concentration, social skills, and hygiene.

However, her story is one of hope and transformation. At Inzozi Academy, teachers Ms. Esther and Ms. Ange recognized her potential and took a proactive approach. Understanding her grandmother’s role in her upbringing, they established strong communication with her family, ensuring she received support both at home and school.

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Inside the classroom, Godwin was given extra time to complete activities and was encouraged to participate in group tasks, fostering social skills and teamwork. But perhaps most importantly, her teachers provided her with the emotional support through counseling and personalized attention and the encouragement she needed to believe in herself, helping her gain confidence and improve her hygiene.

Over time, Godwin’s transformation was remarkable. She became more attentive, eager to participate, and confident in her abilities. Now thriving, she keeps up with her classmates and serves as an inspiration, showing how education can break the cycle of poverty and adversity.

Student Story
June 19, 2024

When Moms Get Involved

Babu, a young boy in the Hagari Rwanda student partnership program, faced significant challenges at the start of his education. At La Divine Primary, he was known for his disruptive behavior and poor social skills, struggling with reading, writing, and spoken English. His future
seemed uncertain, causing concern for his family and Hagari Rwanda staff.

At home, Babu’s behavior was similarly problematic, making it difficult for his mother to manage. After much deliberation, Hagari Rwanda transferred him to Inzozi Academy, despite the risk of moving him from 3rd to 1st grade. This change was essential for providing the close monitoring and support he needed.

Teacher Esther, the lead Primary 1 teacher, and other staff recognized that Babu needed comprehensive support. Collaborating with Hagari Rwanda’s family support team, they devised an intervention plan addressing his academic and behavioral challenges. Understanding the importance of parental involvement, Teacher Esther and the team engaged Babu’s mother, providing her with strategies to manage his behavior at home. This consistent support created a nurturing environment for Babu.

The interventions yielded remarkable results. Babu’s grades improved with personalized attention and tailored learning strategies. His reading and writing skills significantly progressed, and his spoken English became commendable. Once struggling with basic literacy, Babu developed a love for reading, boosting his confidence. Beyond academics, Babu gained emotional intelligence, learning to manage his emotions and interact positively with peers. His improved manners made him a pleasant presence both at school and at home.

His mother proudly speaks of his progress: “He now speaks good English, and his manners are commendable. We have started to live amicably at home.”

Babu’s transformation demonstrates how targeted interventions and compassionate guidance can positively impact struggling children, setting them on a path to success and fulfillment. His journey at Inzozi Academy exemplifies the transformative power of education on both learners and their families.