Then and Now: The Village at 15

In December 2008, when the Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village (ASYV) first opened our gates, our staff Mamas greeted our inaugural class of 125 kids with hugs on a red dirt field surrounded by buildings still under construction. Fifteen years later, that field is filled with lush trees, and the Village has changed in many other ways, too. We’ve added new programs to support our kids’ well-being and to better prepare them to find fulfilling paths forward after they graduate. We’ve built new facilities from a science center to a music studio to state-of-the-art basketball courts. But from 2008 to 2023, the heart of our kids’ ASYV journey—our family dedicated to healing, education, and love—has stood steadfast. This month, at the outset of the new school year marking our 15th anniversary, we asked graduates from our first class, the class of 2012, and our most recent one, the class of 2023, to tell us about that journey.   

“My class, we were survivors who were children to the genocide. Most of us had never had the opportunity to heal, to understand what being supported feels like and how it can change your life. Having that experience in the Village gave us a sense that we should support our community. And many of us have accomplished a lot. I work with genocide survivors because I believe if people who are suffering get support, their lives can also change.” – Liliane Pari Umuhoza, Class of 2012

“When I first came to ASYV, I lacked a clear vision for my future, and I was unsure of how I would succeed. However, being part of ASYV has transformed me. The most important lesson I learned here is kindness. It doesn't matter where you come from or what you have, kindness, discipline, and determination can help you achieve any goal you set for yourself. As for me, I will be attending University of Rochester this fall in New York, United States." – Emmanuel Ahishakiye, Class of 2023

“I was once a girl who if asked to say her name in class, would leave the room. I am incredibly grateful to ASYV for helping me transform—for providing me with skills and believing in me. My goal is to continue my education and pursue a career as an air traffic controller. I've read about aviation accidents caused by miscommunications. As Rwanda works to develop its industries, I want to contribute by ensuring safe and efficient air traffic control.” – Diane Tuyizere, Class of 2023

“Before ASYV, I'd never used a computer or visited an art center or library. ASYV became the catalyst for change in my life. After obtaining my undergradute degree, I returned to the Village to work in IT and teach kids through the Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) Computer Science Academy. Motivated by this, I earned my master's at CMU-Africa. Today, as a data scientist, I'm part of a mission to bring essential infrastructure to remote areas. I aim to give back and inspire.” – Egide Kamuzinzi, Class of 2012