Category: Social

This essay explores the complex relationship between social media and college students, examining whether it serves as the cause of problems or as a tool to mask underlying societal evils.

A Source of Distraction and Procrastination

Social media platforms offer an endless stream of distractions, from viral videos and memes to notifications that constantly seek our attention. College students often find it challenging to resist these temptations, leading to procrastination and decreased productivity in their academic pursuits. It’s evident that social media can be a direct cause of academic problems for college students.

Mental Health Concerns

The impact of social media on college students’ mental health is a topic of growing concern. Studies have shown that excessive use of social media can lead to increased feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety. The pressure to present a curated, idealized version of one’s life online can lead to a constant state of comparison and self-doubt. Thus, social media can contribute to the rise of mental health issues among college students.

Cyberbullying and Harassment

Social media can also be a breeding ground for cyberbullying and harassment. College students are not immune to online abuse, which can take various forms, including online threats, personal attacks, and the spreading of false information. The anonymity offered by social media platforms can embolden individuals to engage in such harmful behavior.
The Role of Social Media in Masking Societal Evils

Echo Chambers and Confirmation Bias

Social media platforms often create echo chambers where individuals are exposed primarily to information and viewpoints that align with their existing beliefs. This can lead to confirmation bias and reinforce societal prejudices and biases, making it difficult to address underlying societal issues.

Superficial Activism

While social media has played a significant role in raising awareness about societal issues, it can also promote superficial forms of activism. Clicktivism or hashtag activism often fails to translate into real-world change. Posting about a cause without taking concrete action can serve as a facade to mask the lack of substantial progress on societal issues.

Polarization and Division

The spread of misinformation and divisive content on social media can exacerbate societal divisions. It can fuel political polarization, create hostility between groups, and make it difficult to have productive, empathetic conversations about critical societal problems.

Social media’s impact on college students and society is multifaceted. It can be a direct cause of problems such as distraction, mental health issues, and cyberbullying among college students. Simultaneously, it can serve as a platform that masks underlying societal evils by fostering echo chambers, promoting superficial activism, and intensifying societal divisions.

The critical question is not whether social media is the sole cause of all the problems among college students or whether it is solely used to cover societal evils. Rather, it is about how we use this powerful tool. Acknowledging the potential harms while harnessing the positive aspects of social media is essential. College students and society as a whole must strike a balance between embracing the opportunities for connection and activism while mitigating the risks and challenges that social media poses.

Think of my contacts as a diverse restaurant menu that caters to every craving: humor, inspiration, motivation, and more.

However, I am occasionally perplexed by the posts that certain people share, even when I strongly believe in the concept of “My phone, my data, my status.”

To avoid coming off as a ‘hater’, I asked some of my peers to share comments on what motivates their posts on social media.

Additionally, I looked up information on what should and should never make it on social media.

Louise, a university student in her final year, said she likes posting photos of herself as it makes her feel good.

“When I dress up and feel smart, I will take photos and post them. However, I avoid posting things that are private,” she stated.

Gloria, also a university student in Kigali, says she rarely posts, but when she does, it’s only to celebrate her friend’s birthdays, weddings, or graduation ceremonies.

“My choice of posts is meant to confuse viewers, you know when people want to see you sad but you post things that show happiness even if you’re not, that’s what I do,” said Claire.

Zandee, on the other hand, said she posts about her cooking tutorials mostly as a way of advertising. “I also post a lot about myself,” she stated, saying it makes her feel happy about herself.

A big percentage of male counterparts said they only post when their football teams win a soccer game or funny memes once in a while.

What experts think you should post

Positive Achievements and Milestones: Sharing accomplishments like graduations, promotions, or personal achievements is a great way to celebrate your success and inspire others.

Educational and Informative Content: Sharing informative articles, news, and thought-provoking ideas can benefit your online profile by highlighting your knowledge and interests.

Sharing your creative endeavors, whether it’s artwork, writing, music, among others, can help you connect with like-minded individuals, gaining you recognition for your talents.

It is okay for one to share their travel experiences as it can inspire others to adventure to the same places. However, be mindful not to share sensitive location data.

Charitable activities such as volunteering and community events can be shared on social media to encourage others to do the same, in addition to fostering a sense of togetherness.

On the other hand, the following should never be posted as they can have a profound impact on one’s personal and professional life.

Engaging in public arguments or airing personal conflicts can reflect poorly on your character and damage relationships. Posting excessively personal information, like relationship troubles or health issues, may make you vulnerable and attract unwanted attention.

Home addresses, phone numbers, bank accounts, and personal emails are sensitive information and should never be posted. I understand your first time at the airport may be thrilling, but make sure to clip out vital details while posting your passport or travel ticket. Identity theft and cyberattacks can be avoided by safeguarding your personal information.

Offensive, discriminatory, or insulting content can tarnish your reputation and potentially result in legal ramifications. What may appear a joke to you may be offensive to the person who views your status: remember you “have a right to what you post but not how the other person interprets it.”

Complaining about your job or colleagues on social media can jeopardize your career and professional relationships. Many employers and organizations now check an applicant’s social media profiles before making hiring decisions. What you post can impact your career prospects.

Sharing false or misleading information can contribute to the spread of misinformation, erode trust, and have real-world consequences. Posting harmful or illegal content can result in legal repercussions, including lawsuits or criminal charges.

The next time you post on social media, be thoughtful of what you share, as maintaining a positive and respectful online presence will help you build and preserve meaningful relationships with friends, family, and acquaintances.

Understanding Mental Health

According to World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is a state of mental wellbeing that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realise their abilities, learn and work well, and contribute to their community.

It encompasses our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours and influences how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices in our lives.

What causes Mental Health Challenges

According to experts, Genetics and brain chemistry can play a significant role in mental health. Certain genes may increase the risk of developing mental health conditions, while imbalances in brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) can also contribute to disorders like depression or anxiety.

Additionally, environmental Factors like in particular life experiences, such as trauma, abuse, or significant stress, can trigger or exacerbate mental health issues.

Personality traits, coping mechanisms, and thought patterns are also said to influence an individual’s susceptibility to mental health challenges. For example, perfectionism or a tendency to ruminate on negative thoughts can contribute to conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or depression.

Common Symptoms of Mental Health Conditions

Psychologists name: persistent sadness or mood swings, changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or oversleeping), increased irritability or anger, withdrawal from social activities, difficulty concentrating or making decisions among the most common symptoms of mental health disorders.

They thus recommend whoever experiences any of the symptoms to seek professional help from therapists, counsellors, or psychiatrists.

Practising self-care is relatively essential for maintaining good mental health. This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques like mindfulness or meditation.

Furthermore, maintaining a strong support network of friends and family can provide emotional assistance during difficult times. Sharing feelings and concerns with loved ones can alleviate the burden of mental health challenges.

Authorities and responsible bodies are also urged to increase awareness about mental health and challenge the stigma surrounding it so as to encourage individuals to seek help when needed and promote a more supportive and understanding society.

With bold ambitions to improve citizens’ wellbeing, the Government of Rwanda has not been left behind this cause.

As part of activities to mark this year’s Mental Health Day, Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC) in partnership with Solid Minds Rwanda, youth and student led organisations have launched the ‘Youth-Friendly National Mental Health Campaign’ to promote the mental well being of students and young people in Rwanda.

The event held at Olympic Hotel in Kigali Rwanda under the theme “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right” attracted poets like Junior Rumaga, Rusine Patrick-comedian, different doctors and therapists and is promising to add up to the country’s efforts towards eliminating mental health stigma and other related conditions.

Let’s get an understanding of what is a ‘need’ and a ‘want’.

Needs are things we can’t live without. They are important for one’s survival; for instance; food, water, air, shelter, clothes.

On the other hand, wants are the things we desire to have but can live without, such as cars, phones, laptops, and more.

Over time, these lists have evolved, blurring the lines between wants and needs.

I will explain; ordinarily, it was a ‘rule of a thumb’ to have three meals a day: breakfast, lunch and dinner. Present day, one will voluntarily skip a meal, if not two, because they want to lose weight.

Others will even go to extremes of just having fruits and water, not forgetting those who fast ‘dry’, as a way to draw near to God.

The same applies to the list of wants. Gone are the days when mobile phones were a luxury, presently, life rotates around them.

Additionally, wants and needs vary from individual to individual; what you can live without, another person sees it as a necessity and a ‘must have’.

For Instance, there’s a recurring debate on social media that has never been resolved. The debate of whether to own/buy a car before you build a house or build a house and then buy a car.

This debate makes its way to the debate room whenever the rainy season kicks in; with those who own cars mocking their counterparts with houses on whether they’re going to use the houses and go to work amidst the heavy rains.

From a short survey I conducted, the majority preferred to build houses prior to buying cars, citing reasons such as: ‘a car is expensive to maintain,’ ‘I plan on having a family, and they won’t sleep in a car, instead in a house,’ ‘a house can be sold for much more than what was used to build it, while the same doesn’t apply to the car,’ and so on and so forth.

Those in support of owning a car first and not the house also had reasons to justify their choice: ‘need to get to work on time,’ ‘I travel a lot, and it would be costly if I don’t own a car,’ ‘all my friends have cars, and so should I.’

A few didn’t have a definite answer: ‘If I get money to buy a car first, I will do that and vice-versa,’ ‘It will depend on the need, what I need most at that particular moment, and my ability to get it.’

Financial experts’ take

Kacie Goff, in an article published by Bankrate says one’s decision to own either property should depend on their financial status as both are expensive.

“The answer depends on your specific financial situation since both houses and cars cost a significant chunk of change. You’ll need to weigh your options carefully.”

“Cars generally depreciate over the years, while the value of real estates tends to rise,” stressed Kati Wishneff a realtor at William Means Real Estate, adding that “although housing markets move in cycles, houses will almost always appreciate to some degree over time.”

She however says that if one needs a car particularly for work, they should go for that first.

“If you need a car particularly for work, I’d advise going with that first. You can’t build wealth without employment.”

Furthermore, individuals are urged to put into consideration the urgency of acquiring one over the other while making the ‘big’ decision. This is to mean, the longterm and shortterm implications.

According to Michael Gifford, CEO-Splitero, a company that helps homeowners get the best outcome when it’s time to sell a house “potential home buyers should consider long-term scenarios like a change in employment status or income and the property’s resale and rental potential”.

“When you buy a home, you really need to think about the big picture but a car purchase doesn’t require the same level of forward thinking,” he states.

“Home ownership is the foundation of almost all wealth creation, your home is not only your egg nest, but the emotional foundation to grow and extend your wealth outside the home into other assets,” says Curtis Wood, CEO Florida mortgage app wood.

A house or a car can be either a necessity or a desire; just make sure to place them in the appropriate category after careful analysis to avoid future regrets.

They were expected to manage the household while their husbands were at work and their children ran about. Some of these women aspired to pursue careers or establish themselves beyond the confines of their homes but felt trapped by societal expectations. It is hardly surprising that many women turned away from homemaking in an attempt to distance themselves from the very thing that seemed to imprison them.

In recent times, homemaking skills have seen a resurgence. It’s as if women are returning to reclaim what was once used against them. Skills that might have faded over the generations are now being reawakened by a deep desire to create, prepare, and care for both ourselves and our loved ones.

Homemaking skills no longer carry the negative associations of the 1950s; instead, they are instilling power and pride in the hearts of women everywhere. Pastimes like baking, sewing, cooking, cleaning and gardening are becoming increasingly integrated into the lives of women who are eager to acquire new abilities and provide for themselves.

Mothers have been integrated in the world of hunting, with this I mean waking up early in the morning and chasing the means.

But this has not stopped them from coming back home and looking after their households and the follow up on small details like a saucepan that broke a handle two years ago on a son’s birthday that she can not find at home.

It could be the ability hidden in their nature, that at times people have defined them as amazing creatures, they will know who went at school who didnt even in their absence , they will know which child is misbehaving, Making a home later on, thinking of the new sofa sets to be placed in the house and the tree behind the young sons window that needs matching.

Indeed, homemaking is a labor of love. It encompasses the creation of a clean and inviting environment, the warmth of a welcoming kitchen, the coziness of a well-maintained house, and the dedication to sewing buttons back onto shirts with care. Homemaking is a celebration of these skills, an acknowledgment of the nurturing spirit that thrives within women. It’s about cherishing the ability to turn a house into a home, a place of comfort and love that leaves an indelible mark on the lives of all who inhabit it.

In this article, we will explore these qualities and discuss whether some people are, in fact, immune to narcissists.

Understanding narcissism

Before delving into the traits that may repel narcissists, let’s briefly define narcissism. Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a mental condition characterized by an excessive need for admiration, a lack of empathy for others, and a grandiose sense of self-importance. Narcissists constantly seek validation and often manipulate those around them to maintain their inflated self-image.

Qualities that repel narcissists

Resisting Praise and Validation One significant quality that repels narcissists is the ability to withhold praise and validation. Narcissists thrive on attention and adoration, known as narcissistic supply. When someone refrains from readily providing these, narcissists may lose interest and move on to individuals who fulfill their need for validation.

Ramani Durvasula, a psychologist and author, emphasizes that this can be challenging for empathetic individuals who genuinely enjoy engaging with others. Resisting the urge to praise and validate may not come naturally to them.

Establishing and Maintaining Boundaries Narcissists enjoy a challenge, but they also have an aversion to individuals with unyielding boundaries. If someone clearly communicates and enforces their limits, narcissists often find it not worth their effort to continue pursuing them.

Stephanie Sarkis, a psychotherapist and author, points out that the word “no” is particularly repellent to narcissists. They will work tirelessly to transform a “no” into a “yes.” Someone who remains firm in their boundaries becomes unattractive to narcissists.

Recognizing Manipulation Being aware of manipulative tactics is crucial in avoiding narcissists. If a narcissist senses that someone is unaware of their tricks, they are more likely to target that person. Trusting your instincts and recognizing when something feels off is an essential tool in building immunity to narcissists.

Chelse Coley, a psychotherapist and author, stresses the importance of discerning who you are dealing with. Recognizing the presence of a narcissist early on can be the first line of defense.

While no one is entirely immune to narcissists, certain qualities and behaviors can act as a safeguard against their influence. Resisting the urge to lavish them with praise and validation, establishing and maintaining strong boundaries, and being vigilant for signs of manipulation are effective strategies. However, these strategies may be easier said than done, especially for empathetic individuals who naturally seek positive connections with others.

In a world where narcissists exist, it is crucial to develop and strengthen these qualities. By doing so, individuals can protect themselves from the emotional turmoil often associated with narcissistic relationships. Ultimately, it is not about complete immunity but about minimizing the damage inflicted by narcissistic individuals. Recognizing the presence of narcissists and taking proactive measures can help create healthier, more fulfilling relationships and a stronger sense of self-worth.

Other factors constant, the face reveals not only who you are, but also what you are feeling: happiness, sadness, exhaustion, frustration, depression, and so on, can all be discerned with just a mere look at your face.

Moreover, when they say “you are what you eat,” it’s your face they use to detect that before anything else; dry lips indicate dehydration, skin breakouts signal stress or hormonal imbalance, eye bags reveal sleep deprivation, while smoking can result in fine lines and wrinkles.

Similarly, when one is leading a ‘peaceful’ life, the part that glows first is the face, notwithstanding the power of a smile (which is also found on the face) in brightening up a gloomy day.

It’s along these lines, hence, that we should pay special attention to the face, considering that it reveals who we are before we do.

Now I know that when we hear about skincare, reasons like time, money, gender, weather, and so on find their way onto the list of ‘why I can’t have a skincare routine,’ but guess what, none of them is valid.

Let’s begin with time. Time is money, it has been proven and tested. However, regardless of our geographical locations, each one of us is allocated 24 hours in a day, and how we use them is totally up to us.

If the celebrities we value and hold in high esteem can find time to have flawless skin, so can we, their fans. After all, we share the same hours in a day. It all comes down to ‘wanting’: “Where there’s a will, there’s always a way.”

I strongly doubt anyone out there, in this era, wants to look old, or better yet, come off as miserable or sad. We could all do anything in our power to stay looking ‘forever young.’

The good news is, ‘it is possible. “We are allowed to grow old but not to look old,” and by dedicating just a few minutes of our daily time to a skincare routine, we can achieve that.

Estheticians and dermatologists recommend three basic steps that shouldn’t be missed in one’s skincare routine no matter their skin type.

These include; Cleansing, toning, and moisturizing.

Just a little rewind, for anyone who may not know their skin types. There are five skin types according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), although some blogs will tell you seven or even more.

Each skin type bears different characteristics, and that’s how we are able to identify which one we possess. How do you tell your skin type?

Oily skin: As the name suggests, oily skins tend to be greasy/shiny in appearance. This is a result of the excess production of sebum (oil) by the sebaceous glands. While this keeps the skin looking younger and free from wrinkles for a prolonged time, it comes with downfalls such as large pores, blackheads, whiteheads, and worse, acne.

Dry skin: The absence of enough sebum to moisturize the skin results in dry skin, making it look dull, rough, flaky, or scaly. However, habits like smoking, alcohol consumption, certain medications, and a low intake of water can also lead to dry skin.

Combination skin: This results from some parts of the face, particularly the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin), having more sebum than the rest. In other words, the face is both dry and oily at the same time.

Sensitive skin: In most cases, dry skins are prone to sensitivity. Nevertheless, oily, normal/balanced skins can also be sensitive. This skin type is characterized by redness in appearance, itchiness, and a burning sensation when one uses certain products or changes their usual environments.

Normal/Balanced skin:This skin type is neither dry nor oily. It just has everything in equal proportions (just what most Rwandan ladies have). The pores are small (almost invisible) for bacteria or dirt to easily penetrate, the texture is smooth, and the tone is even.

In most cases, one can have an oily face and a dry body or vice versa, and in rare cases, the same skin type for the entire body; which is why a product can work for the body and not for the face.

Back to the daily routine: what each step means and entails

Cleansing: This refers to cleaning the face. This time though, not with just plain water and soap, but with water and a facial cleanser. Facial cleansers come in different forms; with the most common being liquid, foam, cream, or bars. Ingredients determine the type of cleanser, so does the choice. Hence, always consult a dermatologist before buying any skin product, or if you already know your skin type, read the product descriptions before purchasing.

Toning: This skincare process involves applying a facial toner after cleansing the skin. Some blogs suggest that it is not important to apply a toner unless you have dry skin. However, estheticians recommend otherwise. Just like facial cleansers, the choice of toners is determined by one’s skin type, even though all toners come in liquid form.

Why use a facial toner?

In simpler terms, toners help to minimize skin pores, preventing dirt and other impurities from entering the skin after it has been cleansed (cleansers remove dirt and impurities that clog the skin pores, thus it just makes sense for the pores to be ‘protected’).

Additionally, cleansers, especially ‘foam’ and ‘bars,’ tend to leave a ‘dry’ feeling on the skin after they are used. Toners thus help the skin feel refreshed. Ultimately, toners help balance the skin’s pH (Potential Hydrogen) and remove any residual debris, says Dr. Ashley Magovern, a dermatologist at Manhattan Dermatology in Manhattan.

Moisturizers: Although applied last, face moisturizers are not in any way less important. On the contrary, one should pay special attention to the moisturizers they use since they’re left on the skin for longer hours. Also chosen according to one’s skin type, face moisturizers can either be ‘day creams’ or ‘night creams.’

Like their names suggest, day creams are used during the day, and night creams during the night. What differentiates a day cream from a night cream is the existence of Sun Protective Factor (SPF) in the day creams, an ingredient meant to protect the skin from sun damage.

Using money as an ‘excuse’ for not having a skincare routine

Certainly, facial products can cost a fortune depending on skin type and demographics. Fortunately, they are not constraints to having beautiful skin. Natural products within everybody’s means are great solutions to the financial barrier. For instance, fruits like lemons and tomatoes are good facial cleansers.

Additionally, milk, plain yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and honey work relatively the same way. When it comes to natural toners, lemon, apple cider vinegar, rose water, green tea, and ice cubes can do ‘miracles’ for the face when used as toners. Oils like avocado oil, coconut oil, grapeseed oil, almond oil, olive oil, among others, are good natural moisturizers for both the face and body.

Gender as a rationale for neglecting a skincare routine

African men often harbor the misconception that skincare is exclusively for women, which is far from accurate. Gone are the days when women solely sought companionship and wealth in a man. In the 21st century, one’s appearance is the ‘icing’ on the cake when considering a partner.

Hence, if you’re a man who still believes skincare is a futile endeavor, it’s time for a rethink.

Weather-related excuses, such as attributing dry skin to the climate and claiming there’s nothing one can do, are unfounded. On the contrary, just as the weather influences skin type, equal emphasis should be placed on safeguarding the skin from weather-induced effects.

If your skin becomes dry due to excessive heat in your region, it’s a good reason to invest in a moisturizer containing SPF for protection. Don’t forget to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Regardless of your age, gender, or financial situation, achieving vibrant, youthful skin is within reach if you truly desire it. So, instead of merely wishing for great skin, take action to attain it. Much like the adage, “we are judged by our appearance,” our looks convey a significant message about who we are.

Culture shock can manifest when people transition to a new city or country, such as retiring abroad. It can also emerge during vacations, business trips, or educational pursuits, like studying abroad. For instance, international students embarking on a semester in a foreign land might grapple with cultural adjustments related to weather, local customs, language, cuisine, and values.

Although the timing of each person’s adjustment process varies, there are identifiable phases that most individuals undergo while adapting to a new environment. Culture shock can be taxing and lead to anxiety, yet it can be surmounted, fostering personal growth.

Culture shock unfolds when an individual leaves the familiarity of their home and steps into uncharted territory. The transition can be particularly intense when transitioning between vastly different settings, such as moving from a rural area to a bustling metropolis or relocating to another country. It typically doesn’t result from a single event; instead, it accumulates from a series of experiences, making it challenging to pinpoint.

The initial stage of culture shock is particularly intense and challenging to overcome. It’s crucial to bear in mind that this cultural adjustment gradually subsides as one becomes more acquainted with the place, its people, customs, cuisine, and language. Consequently, navigating the environment becomes easier, friendships are forged, and everything becomes more comfortable.

Individuals experiencing culture shock tend to progress through four distinct phases:

Culture shock typically comprises four stages: The honeymoon, frustration, adaptation, and acceptance stages. These phases encompass feelings of excitement, frustration, homesickness, adjustment, and ultimate acceptance. Not everyone goes through all four stages, and some may never reach the acceptance phase, leading to ongoing difficulties in adapting.

The Honeymoon Stage: Initially, people are excited about their new environment, perceiving it as an adventure. This phase may define the entire experience for those on a short stay but eventually fades for long-term residents.

The Frustration Stage: As the initial excitement wanes, irritation and disorientation may set in. Language barriers, cultural differences, and daily challenges can lead to frustration, fatigue, homesickness, and even withdrawal.

The Adaptation Stage: Gradually, individuals begin to feel more at home in their new surroundings, and the frustrations of the previous stage subside. While not everything may be fully understood, interpreting cultural cues becomes easier.

The Acceptance Stage: In this final phase, people can fully embrace and enjoy their new home. They develop self-confidence, adapt their behaviors, and appreciate the culture without necessarily understanding every nuance.

The Value of Culture Shock

Despite its negative connotation, culture shock is a normal and enriching experience that many individuals encounter when moving or traveling. Overcoming it can lead to personal growth and a positive overall experience.

For example, international students studying in Rwanda initially struggle with culture shock due to language barriers and unfamiliar customs. However, as they adapt, make friends, and learn cultural nuances, they experience personal growth and develop an appreciation for both their host culture and their own.

If you’ve traveled extensively or moved abroad, you’ve likely encountered culture shock at some point. The habits, customs, and practices of foreign places may initially bewilder you. However, keep in mind that culture shock can be overcome through open-mindedness and an eagerness to adapt to different ways of life.

It is Time to Embrace the Diversity in Cultures. So, Saddle up your horses and let go of adventure.

“Inheritance” is almost exclusively used to deal with physical or monetary goods, features, or character traits; you can inherit your father’s estate, you can inherit your mother’s good looks, you can inherit your grandfather’s business sense.

“Legacy” can be used in that same sense, but it can also have a much broader sense to refer to a situation that is set up for for the benefit of the descendents, “Our parents’ legacy was not simply that they bequeathed us ten million dollars each, but that with that money in trust, we felt free to explore, experiment, and take risks that we would not have been able to, had we not had that safety net available.”

“Inheritance” is generally from the viewpoint of the receiver, while “legacy” is from the viewpoint of the giver: My inheritance was my father’s legacy

“Inheritance” is often associated with material possessions, properties, and assets passed down from one generation to the next. It is a viewpoint largely concerned with what the receiver obtains from their ancestors.

Here’s how some interviewees perceive legacy:

According to an editor in his early 30s, Inheritance, comprises properties and assets bequeathed from someone. It is the tangible wealth that one inherits while Legacy is about good deeds that an individual will be remembered for.

Diane Mukahirwa, a journalist in her early 20s: Diane concurs, emphasizing that inheritance consists of material things like museums, furniture, money, gifts, or support for a better future, usually from one’s family.

Ntwali Bruno, a receptionist in a law firm, reiterates the materialistic aspect of inheritance, referring to cash, houses, and businesses. He points out that these assets are typically handed down within the family.

Muhozi Fulgence, School Director, and Senior in Sociology adds depth to the definition by suggesting that inheritance can include intangible assets, such as values, morals, and ethics, passed from one generation to the next.

On the other hand, “legacy” encompasses a broader sense of what is left behind by an individual or generation, with a focus on the societal impact and values instilled

For Josepha Mafubo, a copywriter, legacy extends beyond material possessions and refers to what we leave behind for society and the environment. It’s about the impact we have on the world.

Ritah Queen, an undergraduate in Marketing associates legacy with the admiration of one’s character, emphasizing that it involves leaving behind something inspiring.

Umutoni, an operations specialist, also highlights that legacy is about leaving achievements, dreams, and skills that inspire others.

Chris Teta, a Content Curator in his early 20s sees legacy as tied to one’s reputation and societal contributions. It’s about how an individual presents themselves to society and the impact they make.

Differentiating Inheritance and Legacy

While inheritance is primarily materialistic and focuses on the transfer of tangible assets within families, legacy transcends the material realm. It encompasses intangible assets like values, morals, ethics, and societal contributions. Moreover, inheritance is often seen from the receiver’s perspective, while legacy is about the giver’s impact on society and the values they leave behind.

Legacy can be positive or negative, depending on the influence an individual or generation has on their community. It can be seen in the enduring impact of philosophers, singers, and other famous individuals who have left their mark on history. In contrast, inheritance typically deals with the distribution of material wealth and assets, but it can also involve the passing down of non-material blessings and values.

As we navigate the diverse thoughts and perspectives of Rwandan citizens on inheritance and legacy, it becomes evident that these concepts are deeply ingrained in our society and culture. They shape our understanding of wealth, values, and societal impact. While inheritance primarily deals with material possessions and assets passed down within families, legacy encompasses a broader sense of societal impact and the values individuals or generations leave behind.

Understanding these distinctions is essential for reflecting on our own lives and the legacies we hope to leave behind. In the end, the meaning of inheritance and legacy is a matter of personal interpretation and cultural context, making it a topic that continues to challenge and engage society’s collective consciousness.

Different people, different minds, different perspectives, age groups, backgrounds and experience have a vast understanding on the aspect of Legacy and Inheritance. As you can see from these different views, it is a topic that is challenging and has challenged society for quite some time. Jump and with us as we dive into differentiating these two and give your own thought. We are yet to know what is what. My guess is as good as yours

It is essential to challenge and dismantle these stereotypes to create a more equitable and inclusive world where everyone can pursue their interests and ambitions freely.

This piece aims to shed light on the damaging impact of gender stereotypes and promote a society where individuals are free to explore their full potential regardless of their gender.

The origins of gender stereotypes

Gender stereotypes have deep historical roots, influenced by cultural, social, and economic factors. Traditional roles assigned to men and women often dictated their activities, responsibilities, and expectations. While these roles may have served practical purposes in the past, they have persisted and evolved into harmful stereotypes that limit human potential.

Breaking down stereotypes

Educational Freedom: Education is a powerful tool for personal development, but gender stereotypes have often dictated what subjects and career paths boys and girls should pursue. It’s crucial to encourage all children to explore their interests, whether in science, arts, or sports, without fear of judgment or discrimination.

Emotional Expression: Boys are often told to “be tough” and suppress their emotions, while girls are encouraged to be more nurturing and empathetic. Breaking these stereotypes allows individuals to express their emotions freely and develop healthier relationships.

Leadership and career choices: Gender stereotypes have long influenced career choices and leadership opportunities. It’s essential to promote gender-neutral hiring and leadership practices, allowing individuals to pursue careers they are passionate about and excel in.

Challenging Traditional Roles: Encouraging men and women to share household responsibilities challenges traditional gender roles and promotes a more balanced and harmonious family life.

Media representation: Media plays a significant role in reinforcing gender stereotypes. Advocating for diverse and realistic portrayals of individuals in movies, TV shows, and advertising helps break down these stereotypes.

Benefits of breaking gender stereotypes

Fulfillment of individual potential: When individuals are free to pursue their interests and passions without gender constraints, they are more likely to excel in their chosen fields and find fulfillment in their lives.

Diverse perspectives: Encouraging people of all genders to participate in various activities and careers brings diverse perspectives and innovative solutions to the table, benefiting society as a whole.

Reduced gender inequality: Challenging and dismantling gender stereotypes is a crucial step in reducing gender inequality in various areas, including education, the workplace, and domestic life.

Embracing individual potential, regardless of gender, benefits not only individuals but society as a whole.

It’s time to break free from the constraints of gender stereotypes and build a more inclusive and vibrant world for all.