Goals of the ASYV Visitor Program, Expectations, and Policies

Goals of the ASYV Visitor Program

Established by our Founder, Anne Heyman, in order to “bring the world to our children,” ASYV’s visitor program works to introduce our kids to individuals from all around the world through day, overnight, and multi-day Service Learning trips. By enabling the free exchange of ideas and experiences, and by facilitating dialogue on topics ranging from daily life to the social and political realities of their respective countries and communities, ASYV’s visitor program has enabled many of our students and guests to build a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

We welcome several hundred visitors to the Village per year to experience our model and understand the role a youth village is playing in post-genocide reconstruction, as well as see one of Rwanda’s best high schools. Visitors expose our students to different cultures, perspectives, and ideas, and help them to practice and build upon their English language skills.

Expectations of Visitors/Policies

It is important to remember that ASYV is home to youth that come from traumatic backgrounds and that visitors are guests in our community. To ensure the welfare of our students, all visitors are required to agree to ASYV's Visitor Policy & Agreement. By signing this agreement, visitors agree to the following guidelines, among others outlined in the policy:

Visitors are not permitted to take photos or videos of students or staff without their explicit consent. If you wish to use an individual’s name or photograph, or publish materials about the Village on the Internet, you may seek permission by contacting communications@asyv.org.

  • Visitors are not permitted to share their contact information with students.

  • Visitors should not give personal gifts or cash to students.

  • Visitors should avoid making promises, even small ones, as students take them seriously and may be disappointed if a promise is broken.

  • Visitors should not spend time alone with students. Visitors should not go into a student’s bedroom under any circumstances outside of visiting the bedroom as part of a formal guided tour, and students are not permitted to spend time in visitor housing.

  • Visitors should be mindful of our students' varying English abilities: speak slowly and clearly, especially with first-year students who may struggle with English. Don’t assume shyness is disinterest–it could be a lack of confidence in language skills.

  • Respect Rwandan culture and the ASYV dress code by refraining from wearing short shorts, tank tops, or revealing clothing.

  • Possession or use of illegal drugs, drug paraphernalia, alcohol, cigarettes, or vapes is strictly prohibited as is arriving at ASYV under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

  • Be mindful of the activities happening at the Village and attempt to minimize any disruption to the rhythm of life.

  • Respect the kids’ privacy and do not ask them about their background unless they offer to share that information. Be mindful of discussing personal sexuality, gender identity, or controversial topics, including current events and politics.

Respecting Our Culture

We’re so excited to welcome you to our home. Please remember that being in a new place means seeing, hearing, tasting, and experiencing new things. Respect cultural differences - take everything in by making time for active listening and reflection. You should also keep in mind that it is forbidden in Rwanda to use ethnic distinguishers. Please don’t ask students about their ethnic background, and be mindful of asking about other sensitive topics like orphan status and the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Some aspects of our culture to be aware of:

Rwanda is a physical culture. People will often greet with a hug followed by a handshake. If you are shaking hands with someone older than yourself, place your left hand on your right elbow to show respect. If uncomfortable with physical interactions, kindly let them know your personal space preferences. Hugs, hand brushing, platonic handholding and arms around waists are common between the same gender or different generations. Rwandans may comment on physical features (e.g., “You’re big”). These comments are typically not offensive but reflect the observation that you are healthy or eating well. Rwandans typically have at least two names: a Kinyarwanda name and an English/French name. Feel free to ask for a shorter name to make it easier to remember. Girls have short hair in accordance with the government mandate for schools.

Jill Radwin