My journey began when a friend shared a CorpsAfrica application link with me via WhatsApp in March 2024. I seized the opportunity and applied on the same day the link became available. I submitted my application as quickly as I could and began checking my email frequently for updates on its status.
In early August, I received the invitation for the interview and felt a surge of excitement, believing I had a real chance to succeed. I was thrilled and couldn’t believe it when I received the congratulatory email saying that I had been selected. I read it over five times just to be sure.
On 11 August, I packed my bags and headed to AMAKUZA resort for a six-week of Pre-service training (PST). During this time, I participated in different learning activities, including practical sessions during Community-Based Training (CBT) where we constructed the kitchen gardens, made the stove, renovated the latrines, etc., and on-site training, where we learned composting techniques, and received the first aid training. Additionally, we have enrolled in several courses related to CorpsAfrica’s approaches such as Human Centered Design (HCD) and Asset Based Community -Led Development (ABCD), along with the mandates we will be working on. These include Community-led- Development, which is the mandate of CorpsAfrica, the graduation program which is the initiative of the government, and The Young Africa Works supported by Mastercard Foundation.
Throughout the Pre-Service Training, I developed various skills and qualities essential for being a CorpsAfrica Volunteer, such as integrity and empathy. In addition to the learning experiences, I enjoyed the leisure activities and the memorable events, including the trip to Akagera National Park, a tour of BK Arena, and the Liberation Trail. These training sessions provided both relaxation and valuable education.
Midway through the training, I faced challenges due to my curiosity and anxiety about my future service location and how I would integrate into my community. When it came time to choose my site, I selected Rulindo district, Bushoki sector, Mukoto cell, and Muko village, where I was deployed on September 27, 2024. My host parents were very welcoming, treating me like their youngest child since they were an elderly couple with all their children married.
During my first two weeks of integration, I engaged in various activities, such as constructing kitchen gardens for my host family, creating landfills, building plate racks, and conducting a one-on-one visit with community members, especially those on the path to graduation from poverty. I also hung the cloth lines, participated in public works to renovate a feeder road, and attended several meetings and events, including inteko and International Day for Rural Women as well as facilitating community meetings.
In addition to my work in Muko village, I was tasked with monitoring the projects completed by previous volunteers in Rugote village, located in Giko cell, to ensure their sustainability. I visited the elderly savings group during their meeting on October 21, 2024. I am enthusiastic, committed, and eager to serve as a CorpsAfrica/Rwanda Volunteer, where I aim to be a catalyst for positive change and project sustainability.
I believe strongly in volunteerism, as I find immense fulfillment in serving others and adding value to their lives. My guiding principle is to not harm, and I strive to make a positive impact whenever possible.