The programme is led by Elizabeth Ndinda, an education mission curator at the African Leadership University (ALU), who once faced similar challenges after becoming a mother at 19.
Having experienced the weight of stigma and the struggle to continue her education, Ndinda said she felt compelled to create opportunities for other young mothers to rebuild their lives.
“I gave birth to my firstborn at 19, but I was supported to go back to school. That changed everything for me,” she said. “Now, I want to create the same opportunity for others, to help them dream and live their dreams, because they can.”
The initiative, launched to mark the International Day of the Girl Child on October 11, 2025, brought together ALU students and community members in Kabuga. Participants provided mentorship sessions, essential household items, and a long-term plan to support the young women’s education and personal development.
“We want to make real change in these girls’ lives and show them that they too are leaders,” Ndinda said. “We have a three-month mentorship plan, and a three-year roadmap for those who wish to return to school or pursue higher education.”
Among the beneficiaries is 27-year-old Claudine Niyigena, who became a mother while still at home as a teenager.
“Giving birth while still at home as a teen is very challenging. You face rejection, drop out of school, and life becomes hard,” she said. “This support makes me believe that people care. I still dream. I want to own a wholesale shop and live a sustainable life.”
Cynthia Umuhoza, another beneficiary, echoed this sentiment. “When you’re young and pregnant, people judge you and discriminate against you. Meeting people who understand that pain gives us new strength,” she said. “I dream of owning a boutique one day and helping other girls who have been through what I faced.”
The initiative reflects the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child theme, “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead.” It emphasises that young women are not just recipients of support but also potential leaders and agents of change in their communities.
For ALU student Natasha Uwase Muneza, participating in the campaign was transformative. “Meeting these mothers showed me how much potential lies in compassion and community. Their resilience gives me more hope for Rwanda’s future,” she said.
Nigerian ALU student Isoma Holyseed Victor, who joined the outreach, highlighted the importance of African-led solutions.
“Too often, Africans are told to look outside for help. But we can be our own saviours by understanding our people’s struggles and creating solutions that come from within,” Isoma said.
Local leaders have also welcomed the initiative. “We are grateful for this support, but it’s also a reminder that these girls are leaders too,” said Janvier Sabato, Executive Secretary of Kabuga 1 Cell. “They must use this opportunity to change their lives and inspire others.”
What began as a small act of compassion is now shaping into a model for empowerment. Ndinda and her team plan to expand the initiative to other parts of Rwanda, building a network of mentorship and sisterhood that uplifts women who once felt left behind.
“I was lifted by women who believed in me, one even paid my school fees through university,” Ndinda said. “Now, it’s my turn to lift others. It doesn’t take much to change a life. We can all start with what we have.”
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