As a CorpsAfrica Volunteer in Rwanda, I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of the journey of rural community development. My mission focuses on engaging with communities to uplift them by leveraging their existing assets and building sustainable solutions. Through the lens of the Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) approach, I have been able to actively participate in transformative projects that are not only improving livelihoods but also fostering social cohesion. My name is Lys Gabriella here’s my journey.

One of the cornerstones of my work is creating spaces for social interaction. It’s crucial that the community members feel connected to each other and to the larger vision we are working toward. I’ve organized community meetings where we discuss development initiatives, share experiences, and celebrate successes. These interactions have helped to build trust, and over time, the community has become more involved in decision-making processes and problem-solving, a key principle of the ABCD model.

In line with the ABCD approach, I have worked with the community to establish a youth savings group. This group focuses on fostering financial independence and the importance of savings. The youth have been empowered with skills to manage their finances, and it has been inspiring to see their growth in both knowledge and practice. We opened a bank account for the group, which not only allows them to save but also creates a sense of responsibility. It’s amazing to see the impact this has had on the confidence of young people in the community.

Agriculture is central to the livelihoods of many rural communities, and I’ve been fortunate to work on several initiatives aimed at boosting food security and improving income. We established kitchen gardens, where community members were provided with the knowledge and resources to grow their own nutritious food. These gardens have not only helped families become more self-sufficient but also created a model for sustainable agricultural practices that can be passed on to future generations.

Another impactful initiative has been the distribution of livestock to community members. These animals provide a consistent source of income through eggs, and other products. It’s been inspiring to witness the sense of pride and responsibility that has emerged as people take care of their livestock and use them as a foundation for improving their financial stability.

Environmental sustainability is another area where I’ve been involved. Together with the community, we established a tree nursery bed. The goal is to promote reforestation and enhance the local ecosystem while also offering a sustainable source of income through the sale of seedlings. This project has not only helped improve the environment but has also provided an opportunity for members to get involved in a long-term initiative that will benefit the community for years to come.

My journey with this rural community has been a fulfilling experience, and I’m grateful to witness the transformations taking place. The relationships I’ve built and the projects I’ve been part of have deepened my appreciation for the resilience and resourcefulness of the community. Working in such an environment has reaffirmed my belief that community-led development, rooted in the strengths of the people, is the most sustainable and impactful path forward.

I look forward to continuing this journey, learning from the community, and contributing to projects that make a lasting impacwill have the lives of its memmembers’ lives