January 18, 202b | by Alphonsine Anderson

As we returned from an unforgettable trip to Rwanda last week, my heart is still full and my spirit renewed. The time my husband and I spent with the remarkable children in our programs was nothing short of inspiring.  Over three days at our annual retreat, we celebrated their achievements, listened to their stories, and shared moments that reminded us why we do this work.

Highlights That Touched Our Hearts

The retreat was packed with powerful moments:

• Inspiring Guest Speakers: Alizee N., a young banking executive, and Landry, a recent university graduate, shared their journeys of resilience and success. Their stories of overcoming poverty to achieve their dreams motivated our students to aim high and stay focused on their goals.

• Celebrating Achievements: We honored top achievers like Honorine, the top ICT graduate in Rwanda, and students excelling in their national exams. Seeing their pride and determination reinforced the impact of education and mentorship.

• Student Testimonies: Hearing directly from our students was deeply moving. Idrissa shared his journey from the streets to nearing graduation in Mechatronics from Kigali Polytechnic College. Haven, an 11th-grade student at Lycee Notre Dame de Citeaux with aspirations of becoming a pilot, spoke of her unwavering ambition. Honorine expressed her gratitude and her dreams of becoming a cybersecurity specialist. Their words were a testament to the transformative power of opportunity and belief.

Moments of Connection and Reflection

One of the most meaningful parts of the retreat for me was the one-on-one conversations with several students. We discussed their aspirations, struggles, and dreams for the future. These moments reminded me of my own journey—losing my parents and siblings during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, pursuing education through scholarships in Rwanda and the U.S., and ultimately founding Rising Above the Storms. 

I shared my story with the students to show them that while current circumstances may be challenging, they do not define their future. I reminded them that I don’t do this work because I have excess resources, but because I believe in giving a chance to those who need it most.

Beyond the retreat, I spent additional time with our dedicated staff and with students who weren’t able to attend the event.  During an “ask me anything” session, I gained incredible insights simply by listening. These conversations deepened my understanding of their aspirations and challenges, reaffirming our commitment to support them on their journeys.

A Community of Support

This retreat wasn’t just about awards and speeches; it was about fostering hope, building confidence, and showing our students that their dreams are within reach. We celebrated the holidays together, shared meals, and created memories that will stay with us for a lifetime. None of this would be possible without the support of our incredible community—our donors, sponsors, volunteers, and partners. Your belief in our mission fuels these moments of transformation and joy. Together, we are shaping brighter futures and building a legacy of hope.

Join Us in Making a Difference

As we step into a new year, we invite you to continue this journey with us. Your support—whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness—helps us empower more children to rise above their circumstances. Let’s make 2025 a year of even greater impact.

Thank you for being a part of this incredible mission. Together, we are transforming lives, one child at a time. Join us in sponsoring a child’s education and future!