Author: RAS

By Alphonsine Anderson

Some stories echo long after they’re told. This one began with a message—soft, humble, unexpected—and it reminded us why Rising Above the Storms exists in the first place. Last week, as our family celebrated the wedding of our youngest sister in Rwanda, a quiet act of generosity arrived from miles away. It came from a woman who has every reason to hold tightly to the little she has… and yet, she chose to give.

She is the mother of Lionel—one of the students in our scholarship program. Her son qualifies for support because their family faces real, daily challenges. Ten thousand Rwandan francs (just $7 USD) is not a small amount for her. It can mean several meals for her entire household. It is the kind of money a struggling family cannot release lightly.

And yet, she did. Not because she was invited to the wedding. She wasn’t. Not because she hoped to attend. She couldn’t—she lives far outside Kigali. Not because anyone asked. No one did. She gave out of gratitude. Pure, unfiltered gratitude from a mother’s heart. Here is the message she sent to my sister Alice—one of our RAS staff members in Rwanda, the one who first began as a volunteer at the very beginning of our work, long before she ever earned a paycheck for it (translated from Kinyarwanda):

“Hello Alice, This is Mama Lionel. I want to thank you for encouraging us by paying for my child’s school fees. May God bless you and keep you safe. One of my son’s teachers told me that your family is having a wedding. I want to wish you a happy wedding and send you this small contribution. It comes from the bottom of my heart. Thank you!”

When Alice received that message, she immediately shared it with me. We all choked up. In Rwanda, weddings are community affairs. People contribute what they can—5,000 RWF, 10,000 RWF, sometimes 100,000 RWF—often tied to their means and usually accompanied by an invitation to attend. But this wasn’t that kind of contribution. This mother wasn’t on the guest list. She wasn’t preparing a dress or planning a trip to Kigali. Her gift was a simple offering of the heart.

And it struck me deeply because I know exactly what 10,000 RWF means in the life of a struggling family. It’s not pocket change. It’s sacrifice. It’s love. It’s honor. It is also a reflection of something profoundly human:

When you lift up a child, you don’t just transform a future.
You touch an entire family.
You restore dignity.
You awaken gratitude.
And gratitude, when it sees a chance to give back—even in the smallest ways—becomes its own kind of miracle.

Alice herself embodies that same spirit of service. Before she ever joined us as paid staff, she volunteered at the very beginning of Rising Above the Storms, offering her time and passion long before we could compensate her. Today, she represents RAS during our partnerships, ensuring transparency and professionalism—backed by her dual master’s degrees in Social Work and International Relations and formal training in child protection. She is the kind of leader who understands the weight of responsibility and the privilege of service.

So when this mother reached out to her, it wasn’t just a gesture. It was a circle completing itself. This is what Rising Above the Storms is about. Quiet dignity. Transformational hope. The kind of impact that inspires generosity from those who have the least to spare. It’s a reminder that compassion grows roots. And sometimes, it blossoms in the most unexpected places.

This woman initiated this gift all on her own—because of the impact you helped us make on her child and her family. Her generosity may have looked small on paper, but in truth, it was larger than life. If a mother with so little can give so much, imagine what we can do together. A scholarship doesn’t just educate a child—it restores a family’s hope. It redirects a future. It rewrites a story.

Sponsor a student like Lionel today by selecting a child from this page. Or give $55 monthly 👉🏾 here, and we’ll select a child for you.

By Rwandan Team

During one of our regular monthly visits to children supported by Rising Above the Storms, our team had the privilege of spending time with Angelo Ishimwe Ngabo, a bright and determined 5^th grade student. What began as a simple check-in turned into a moving encounter that left a lasting impact on our hearts.

Angelo, born on June 5, 2013, is the oldest of three children. With two younger sisters looking up to him, he carries a quiet strength that goes beyond his years. His academic performance is nothing short of remarkable—consistently scoring above 90% in school. He is curious, hardworking, and passionate about learning. But behind this young scholar’s achievements lies a story of immense struggle.

Angelo’s family lives in extremely difficult conditions. His father has battled diabetes since 2015, and in 2021, the illness led to blindness in one eye and paralysis. Today, he is unable to walk and relies entirely on a wheelchair. Angelo’s mother, the family’s sole caretaker, sells bananas on the street in an effort to make ends meet. With no stable income, even paying their monthly rent of RWF 50,000 is a constant challenge. The family often depends on the kindness of strangers for food and shelter.

When we visited Angelo’s home, we were struck not only by the gravity of their situation but also by the love and hope that filled the space. Despite everything, Angelo remains focused on his education. His dream? To one day become a researcher so he can better understand the illness that has changed his father’s life. He wants to know why his father can no longer walk and what can be done to help others in similar situations.

Recognizing the urgent need for support, RAS and AB provided the family with essential food supplies—rice, beans, corn flour, cooking oil, sugar—and adult Pampers to ease the care of Angelo’s father. While these items may seem small, they brought immediate relief and reminded the family that they are not alone.

Angelo’s story is a powerful reminder of why we do what we do. Behind every sponsored child is a story of courage, resilience, and hope. We are proud to walk alongside Angelo and his family on their journey—and with continued support, we believe this young dreamer will go far.

Join us in supporting the basic needs and emotional support these students need to be successful in their education.  Donate 👉🏾 here! $25 a month supports the needs of one student.

By Matt Anderson

This month we want to highlight an interview with Alizee N., a mentor to our students.  She understands what it’s like to be in their shoes, parents unable to afford education and basic needs, and pressure to compromise values to make ends meet.  Like Alphonsine, she overcame poverty by focusing on education and discipline, rising to one of the youngest female banking leaders in Rwanda.

She spoke to the children at a recent retreat to encourage them and listened to their testimonies about how RAS is impacting their lives.  When asked about the impact, she said…

“There are no words to describe what you’re doing in the life of these children. I’ve seen their background—full of poverty and despair. And now they’re dreaming of being bankers, lawyers, doctors… They feel like they hold the future. They can do anything, just because of you.”

She heard Honorine’s story about how she rose to earn one of the top grades in Rwanda’s equivalent to the SAT test, and earned a scholarship to university. Read Honorine’s story.

“I was listening to a young lady who always had a dream of being number one in the country, but she couldn’t make it. But ever since you entered her life, everything… Now she has realized her dreams and you’re doing it for everyone in the room.”

Alizee tells donors that kids need more than tuition.  They need basic needs parents can’t afford like meals and clothes.  They need counseling and encouragement to care for their mental health since many are going through difficult situations at home. 

Join us in supporting the basic needs and emotional support these students need to be successful in their education.  Donate 👉🏾 here! $25 a month supports the needs of one student.

By Idrissa Dusengimana

My name is Idrissa Dusengimana. I’m 23 years old and live in Kigali, Rwanda, with my mother and two younger siblings. My journey began in pain and struggle, but in May this year, I graduated university with a degree in mechatronics engineering. I was in the first group of children to join Rising Above the Storms’ Street Child Program when it started in 2017, and the first to go to university—and graduate.

Before RAS, life was full of trauma…

I grew up in a Muslim family of five. My father was a truck driver. My mother stayed home to raise us. But our home was filled with fear. My father drank heavily and beat my mother at night. The police came more than once. At school, I carried that pain with me. I used to believe maybe everyone in the world was like him.

In 2014, after another arrest, my father left for good…

He sent his sister to collect his things. My mother was left with nothing but three children and debt. I had just finished primary school and was supposed to start secondary (grades 7-12), but we had no money. My mother asked my father to help. He refused. So, she took a small loan from friends and sent me to school. Later, she began street vending to support us.

Even then, staying in school was difficult…

There were times I couldn’t get my report card because my mother hadn’t paid school fees. That meant I couldn’t move forward like the other students. I felt stuck and discouraged. But I always liked learning. I’m a visual learner, and I enjoy understanding how things work—especially in mechanical design.

It was during this time, in 2017, that my life changed…

My little brother came home saying he met people helping street children. The next day, my sister and I went to see them. That’s how I became one of the first students in the new Street Child Program at Rising Above the Storms.

RAS gave us basic needs and encouraged us to continue school…

They gave us counseling and emotional support when I needed it most. I was going through a rough time and didn’t know what direction to take. RAS helped me stay off the streets and choose the right path—to stay in school and keep learning.

With RAS’ help, I stayed focused and worked hard. I ranked among the top students…

Then RAS started the Scholarship Program to pay school expenses for kids like me who earned good grades.  They supported me for the rest of my secondary education, where I attended a boarding school.  Then I scored well enough in the national exams during my senior year that I earned a government scholarship to university.

Now, I just completed my engineering degree…

I love what I’m studying, especially mechanical design. I’m hoping to find a job with a company where I can use what I’ve learned and keep growing.

Without RAS, I would not be here…

I might have stayed on the streets. But instead, I’m graduating with a university degree. Thank you to everyone at RAS. You helped me rise above the storm. I hope more children like me—those who want to learn but can’t afford school—will get the same chance. There are many kids who just need someone to believe in them.

Now Idrissa the mentor…

Idrissa continues to visit RAS’ street children and scholarship students to share his story and encourage them. He wants to be a role model and mentor to inspire others to rise too.  Support children like Idrissa through one of RAS’ 3 programs:

(1) Street Child program: Children are rescued from the street, rehabilitated through counseling, and reintegrated into schools and their communities.

(2) High aptitude program: Scholarships and financial aid are awarded to high-aptitude children from low-income families, enabling them to attend grade 1 – 12.

(3) Higher Learning program: Financial aid and mentorship assistance for bright students from low-income families who are currently attending university.

By Alphonsine Anderson, Founder, Rising Above the Storms

I know what it’s like to be gifted, determined and still go to bed hungry. I earned a full scholarship, yet wondered where my next meal or pair of shoes would come from...

As a student in Rwanda, I worked relentlessly and earned my place in top schools. But growing up without parents, even with tuition fully covered, I struggled to survive. I often went without meals. I borrowed soap and toothpaste from classmates. I slept on a thin mattress—or none at all. I timed my visits around lunchtime, hoping to be offered a bite.

No scholarship covers hunger and no test score erases shame. ..

This is the part of education we rarely speak about—the invisible burdens students carry from the dormitory to the classroom. And in Rwanda, many secondary and university students must live far from home. They are required to bring with them all the basics needed for dormitory life or off-campus housing: a mattress to sleep on, bedding, a bucket for bathing and laundry, and hygiene kits with soap, toothpaste, sanitary pads, etc. These aren’t luxuries—they are lifelines.

What helped me persevere were the smallest acts of kindness: a few Rwandan francs, a shared meal, a safe place to rest…

That’s why I founded Rising Above the Storms, so our students would never have to choose between education and dignity. At our Center, meals aren’t a reward. They are a right. No child is ever asked if they deserve to eat. And while we proudly provide tuition and academic supplies, most of the youth we serve—especially those from the most vulnerable families—still need essentials to stay in school:

These aren’t extras, they are fundamentals…

• 🛏 A mattress for their dormitory bed
• 🪣 A bucket to wash with
• 🧼 Hygiene supplies no one should have to go without
• 🍛 Room and board support for college students, which government scholarships do not cover

This is the difference between staying confident or dropping out…

It’s the difference between being seen with dignity—or struggling in shame. Each year, as Rwanda’s academic year begins (September–July), Rising Above the Storms launches our Annual Student Essentials Campaign—a focused effort to bridge the gap between tuition and total wellbeing. This is your invitation to stand in that gap with us.

• 🎒 Give more than a chance—give dignity
• 🧼 Provide a hygiene kit
• 🛏 Buy a mattress
• 🍲 Support room and board for a student

Your one-time gift, monthly donation, or sponsorship pledge helps ensure students don’t just stay in school—they rise with hope, pride, and the power to dream.

CLICK HERE -> Let’s rise together—for their dignity, their dreams, and their future. Donate or fundraise as a team!

April 20, 2025 | by Fabrice Ngirakamaro

There was a time when the future looked uncertain, clouded by hardship and limited opportunities…

Each day felt like navigating a storm without a compass—every step forward met with winds of doubt and waves of discouragement.  I lived far from school, and every day started before sunrise. The dusty road stretched ahead, and sometimes I walked hungry, with only determination as my fuel. My home was small, shared with siblings who looked up to me. The noise, the distractions, and sometimes the silence of an empty stomach made studying a real challenge.

I struggled with basic needs. I didn’t always have textbooks. There were days I almost gave up. My friends were dropping out one by one—some for lack of support, others from pressure at home. I remember one rainy season; I had no shoes. I walked to school barefoot, my feet muddy and cold, but I kept going.  Nights were no easier. With no electricity, I studied under the flicker of a kerosene lamp. I’d squint over my notes, fighting sleep and the biting mosquitoes. Sometimes I asked myself, “Is it worth it?”

When my father passed away in 2020, it felt like the ground had been ripped from beneath our feet. The weight of grief, uncertainty, and financial strain pressed down on our family like a storm with no end in sight. Every day was a struggle to navigate life without his presence—his guidance, his laughter, and his strength. We didn’t know how we would manage, or where to even begin picking up the pieces. The future felt like a dark, unfamiliar road.

But in the midst of that darkness, Rising Above the Storms found me and became a beacon of hope…

RAS stepped in with compassion, practical support, and unwavering encouragement. From paying my school fees to helping with basic needs and emotional support, they reminded me that I’m not alone. Their presence didn’t erase the pain, but it eased the burden and gave me room to breathe again. With their help, I began to feel a sense of purpose and hope for tomorrow.

When RAS sponsored my education, it felt like someone finally saw potential in me.  But every day after that came with its own challenges.  I still had to walk a long distance to school. At home, there were responsibilities—chores, caring for my younger siblings, and sometimes going to bed hungry.  When the exams came, I was nervous—but ready. I gave it my all. And when the results were announced, I couldn’t believe it—I passed!  I cried that day. Not just tears of joy, but of relief. All the pain, all the sacrifice, it meant something. I made it.

I still remember that feeling. It wasn’t just about the grades—it was about proving to myself that I could rise above the storms of life, no matter what tried to hold me down. Now, I’m pursuing a university education. I don’t know what challenges lie ahead, but I know this for sure: I am rising. And I am not done yet.

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my amazing sponsors through RAS, Lynette & Larry Rambo, for their unwavering support and generosity…

You have played a vital role in helping me reach this exciting milestone—I am now preparing to join university. This opportunity means the world to me, and it would not have been possible without your belief in my potential and your constant encouragement. Thank you for investing in my future and walking alongside me in this journey.

I am also deeply grateful for the laptop.  At first this laptop was just a machine to me—metal, plastic, circuits. But it became a bridge to hope, to learning, and to opportunities I once thought were beyond my reach. With it, I learned new skills—coding, digital design, cybersecurity, data entry, and more. This laptop became my classroom, my workshop and my opportunity. More than anything, it became a symbol of what’s possible when someone believes in you.

Every time I power it on, I’m reminded: storms don’t last forever. But the strength you gain by rising above them? That stays with you forever.

Sponsor a child’s education like Lynette & Larry and make a difference!

Note: Fabrice is part of our education program that provides financial aid to children with high aptitudes in grade school.  He will be graduating to our higher learning program that provides aid to students going to university.

March 7, 2025 | by Honorine Irakoze

My name is Promise Honorine In Irakoze, and I live in Kigali, Rwanda. I come from a family of six children, and have both of my parents. I finished high school and recently started university, but getting here was not easy. Let me share my story.

When I was younger, life was good. Both of my parents had jobs. My father was a driver, and he owned a car that he used to transport goods. My mother had a small restaurant where she sold fast food. Their income was enough to take care of our family.

Tragedy struck & my parents struggled to afford basic needs…

One day, my father had an accident. The goods he was transporting were destroyed, and his car was badly damaged. He had taken a bank loan to buy those goods, and now he also needed money to fix the car. Even after repairing it, the car still had problems, so he decided to sell it.

After selling the car, our financial situation became worse. My father lost his job, and my mother’s business also failed. Since they had to repay the bank loan, they had no choice but to sell our house. We had to move into a rented home, and life became very difficult. We struggled to afford food, clothes, and school fees.

School sent me home because we couldn’t afford fees…

Even though things were hard, I had one opportunity starting the 7th grade. My school had a rule: students who were first in their class and scored at least 80% on their report cards didn’t have to pay school fees. I worked very hard and always ranked first, so this part of my education was covered.

However, when I reached the 10th grade, things got tougher. At the new school, tuition fees were higher, and my parents couldn’t afford them. My father would beg the headmaster to let me continue studying, paying only small amounts when he could. Eventually, the headmaster got tired of this and sent me home in the third term. I missed two weeks of school while my classmates continued learning.

RAS stepped in to support my education…

During this difficult time, I met Rising Above the Storms. They stepped in and paid for my education. From then on, I didn’t have to worry about school fees. I focused on my studies and worked even harder.

Since 10th grade, I have always dreamed of being the top student in the National Examination. There were times when I felt discouraged because of our family’s struggles, but the support from RAS gave me hope. I stayed determined, and in the end, I achieved my dream. I became the top student in my field of study in high school in the country – Information Technology.

My top grade earned me a university scholarship…

That excellent grade helped me gain university admission, fulfilling my long-held dream of pursuing higher education. After my results were released, I began applying to various universities in the hopes of securing a place. Fortunately, I was admitted to Kepler College under the Kepler Scholarship and enrolled in the Business Analytics program—a great faculty that I believe will help me take a significant step toward my future career. I am certain that without RAS’s support, I wouldn’t have achieved any of this. Their support has truly shaped who I am today.

The journey was not easy, but I am truly grateful to RAS (Rising Above the Storms) for helping me make my dream come true. I may not have anything to give them right now, but I pray that God blesses them with long lives so I can continue to show my gratitude and make them proud.

I also want to thank my sponsors Mr. and Mrs. Anderson for their kindness and support. Their generosity played a big role in my success, and I will never forget it.

Join the Anderson’s in sponsoring a child’s education and future like Honorine!

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!