16Jul2026
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Claudine 1
Family of Hagari
May 6, 2026

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.

1.Trauma Retreat 2026
Youth Ministry
April 23, 2026

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.

Mama Sammy 1
Family of Hagari
February 9, 2026

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.

Godson Credo and mom 1
Family of HagariStudent Story
January 6, 2026

Charlotte and Godson: From Survival to Hope

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

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

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

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

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

That transformation is evident in Godson every day.

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

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

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

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

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

Mama Joy
Family of HagariInzozi AcademyStudent Story
December 16, 2025

A Mother’s Prayer, A Child’s Promise

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

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

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

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

And Christa truly is thriving.

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

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

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

Mama Joy
Christa 1
Christa 2
Isimbi
Family of HagariInzozi AcademyStudent Story
December 10, 2025

A Brighter Path for Isimbi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Francine
Family of Hagari
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.

 
Mama Kevin (Stella) 2
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.

WhatsApp Image 2025-08-25 at 3.56.24 PM
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.

Mama Gaju
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. 

Yvonne.4(1)
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. 

Rachel Uwishoreye 2 Inzozi Academy Support Staff
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.