As a CorpsAfrica Volunteer in the western province of Rwanda, Ngororero District, Ndaro Sector, Kabageshi cell, and Ruhanga village, I found myself on a deeply transformative journey. CorpsAfrica’s mission to empower communities through local leadership resonates deeply with my work here, allowing me to engage meaningfully with this vibrant community.
Ruhanga village is a rich culture and traditional place, characterized by its rolling hills, a stark contrast to my flat upbringing in Eastern Province. Initially daunting, the landscape has now become familiar, and the warmth of the community has made my stay incredibly rewarding. Each day brings new opportunities to learn about local customs, lifestyles, and the challenges the villagers face.
The day I arrived was filled with emotion, marked by a heartfelt farewell from my CorpsAfrica family. Embraced by our Country Director I felt a powerful sense of purpose and a rhythm in my heart that mirrored my desire to make a meaningful impact in Ngororero district specifically Ruhanga village.
My journey began with a warm welcome from my host mother, an elderly woman living alone. Before my arrival, she had already informed her family about me, and it was amusing to hear them affectionately refer to me as “Cyabitama” (Big beautiful Cheeked). Her encouragement helped me embrace my new surroundings and fueled my belief that I was destined to fulfill the hopes I brought with me.
A funny story, one evening, during dinner, I faced an unexpected visitor—a frog leaping around our home. Panic surged through me, igniting my instinct to flee. Yet, I reminded myself to stay calm; I didn’t want my host mother to see me as just a “town dweller.” Choosing to remain composed, I learned to blend humor with fear, a reminder of the resilience I needed to cultivate as well as adapt to
A highlight of my integration has been the cultural exchange with the villagers. I quickly learned the importance of greeting others a practice I hadn’t previously embraced. Our lively discussions sparked interest in our differing backgrounds and fostered mutual respect. In return, I delved into the rich history and customs of Ruhanga village, gaining insight into their agricultural practices and communal decision-making processes. This exchange has not only enriched my experience but also reinforced the essential role of understanding and respecting each other’s perspectives.
As I continue my journey, I am dedicated to listening to the community’s needs and collaborating on sustainable solutions through Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) and Human-Centered Design (HCD). My time in Ruhanga village has reaffirmed my belief in the power of collective initiatives and the importance of empowering individuals to drive change.
Being a CorpsAfrica Volunteer in the Ngororero District has been a profound experience of integration, learning, and community engagement. As I move forward, I carry with me cherished memories and a deep appreciation for the resilience and spirit of the people of Ruhanga village. Together, we are building a brighter future, one step at a time.