Becoming a Volunteer is not just a job—it’s a calling. For me, this journey began unexpectedly, yet it has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life.
On the morning of August 8, 2024, I opened an email that filled me with a mix of excitement and uncertainty. It was an invitation to join CorpsAfrica PST, a program focused on sustainable development through volunteerism in Africa. My name is Pepine Bikorimana, born in Gisagara District, Rwanda. Little did I know that this email would mark the beginning of a life-changing journey.
The path to volunteering started when, in May 2024, I stumbled upon an opportunity with CorpsAfrica through LinkedIn. After a successful interview in July, I found myself in August among the trainees at the pre-service training (PST) at Amakuza Resort. Initially uncertain about whether I could continue, the training quickly instilled in me a deep sense of commitment to serve. By the end of the program, I was resolved to dedicate myself to serving rural communities, specifically in Nyamagabe District.
Arriving in Nyamagabe on September 26, I was welcomed with warmth and hospitality by my host mother in Kabuga Village. She took me in like one of her children, offering not only a roof over my head but also a powerful example of love, care, and community service. Through her, I learned firsthand the importance of connection and social responsibility.
However, integrating into the community was not as easy as I had hoped. The village where I was assigned to work was quite distant from my host family’s home, and the initial distance left me feeling somewhat isolated. The first interactions with the locals were tough. Some whispered, “We don’t know this lady,” as they observed my presence in their village during community events such as UMUGANDA (community work). These words echoed in my mind, making me question if I would ever truly be accepted.
Despite the initial struggles, I remained persistent. By working closely with local leaders, I was given opportunities to introduce myself and explain my mission during various community activities and meetings. Over time, these interactions allowed me to build relationships and earn the trust of the villagers. Today, I am proud to say that I now consider myself part of the Nyamirama Village family in the Nyamagabe District.
In my role as a Volunteer, I now work with both youth and elder groups, collaborating to advance sustainable development in the region. Each day brings new challenges, but also invaluable lessons and Development. I have learned the importance of listening with empathy, understanding different perspectives, caring deeply for the community, focusing on the bigger picture, and contributing in any way I can to the development process.
The experience has also taught me resilience. It’s not always easy to bring change to rural communities, but when you work with the people and for the people, it becomes a shared journey toward progress.
As I continue my service, I remind myself daily of why I embarked on this journey: to contribute to the growth of my country, to empower the communities I serve, and to learn from the diverse individuals I meet along the way.
I am deeply grateful to CorpsAfrica Rwanda for giving me this opportunity to serve. This experience has been more than just about volunteer work; it’s been about personal growth, community transformation, and the powerful spirit of service that unites us all.
