Updates From our RUWI Trip!
Our Team of 3.
In July, a small team of 3 from the States traveled to Rwanda for our first official Rise Up trip! During our month in Rwanda, we ventured around the country to be alongside several of our field partners and initiatives!
Regional WLTIs.
We had the opportunity to be alongside the Northern and Eastern Regional WLTIs as the Trainers-of-Trainers (TOTs) facilitated and led these 2 new cohorts of 50 women in their 3-year development program. We spent time together, dug into scripture, coached the TOTs, and strategized ways to improve future sessions.
Institute of Women for Excellence.
We spent the day with some of the IWE students and faculty. This group of students was studying for their national exams but took time to dance and laugh with us! During our time together, we danced with, encouraged, and prayed with the students and faculty.
“Humora Mugore”/Cheer Up Woman’s Group
We spent an afternoon with the Cheer Up Woman’s group to hear updates and encourage one another. Because of this group, over 50 women from the community have found hope and healing, learned new skills, share resources, and are bringing positive change to their homes and community.
A Cohort of Lawyers.
We met with a cohort of 25 Christian lawyers. This cohort was formed to offer services to individuals who don’t have the resources to seek and receive help through attorneys. As we sat with these lawyers, they shared updates, we encouraged them in their efforts, and together, we strategically planned for future initiatives.
Cyimbili Coffee Plantation.
We visited Cymibili Coffee Plantation for some rest, to enjoy some delicious coffee, and to celebrate with the team. Through the dedication of the workers and leadership of the Cyimibili staff, the land is being restored and the surrounding community transformed.
Burera Farm Initiative.
We made our way to Burera Farm. We enjoyed visiting the workers, checking in on the pigs, and stopping in to see a few of the families who have received a pig through the pass-forward initiative. A highlight was walking through the village with Michelle, the agronomist, to visit the families and their pigs.
Microfinance Group.
A new group of microfinance participants gathered together for the first time. This group of 32 women was educated and trained in savings and microfinance skills and will continue to meet to further their efforts and education. We had the opportunity to introduce ourselves and encourage them.
Basket Weaving & Microfinance Group.
Christine, a friend and field partner, spent the last several months with her microfinance group making baskets, trivets, and jewelry in preparation for our visit to Rwanda. We shared an evening with Christine and supported this group through the purchasing of merchandise.
Alongside our Field Partners & Friends.
As we spent the month alongside our field partners in Rwanda, and Rachel, our Kenyan field partner, we were mutually encouraged. As we shared meals, laughed together, and spent time visiting the initiatives, it allowed us to strengthen our relationships and strategically plan for the future. We are GRATEFUL to have been invited and for the opportunity to go.