Empowerment in Action: How DB Tech Africa’s Support and a Gift of a Goat are Weaving a Brighter Future for an 18-Year-Old Student

At Don Bosco Muhazi Technical and Vocational School, the recent International Women’s Day celebration was more than just a gathering; it was a profound demonstration of gender equality, partnership, and tangible support for sustainable development.

Supported by Don Bosco Tech Africa through the Salesian Planning and Development Office in the Africa of the Great Lakes Province, the event featured thoughtful gifts for everyone in attendance. Students received notebooks and pens symbolizing a united pursuit of knowledge, while women and girls were provided with reusable sanitary pads made by Kosmotive, a reknowned Women Clothing Maker Company in Rwanda.

However, the most touching moment of the celebration was the presentation of a goat to a student facing extraordinary life challenges.

That student is Nyirabagarura Sandrine, an 18-year-old from Rwingeyo Village, Gasagara Cell in the Gikomero Sector. As a partial orphan, Sandrine has faced severe poverty that actively threatened to derail her dreams of getting an education.

Yet, instead of giving up when the financial burden became too heavy, she showed remarkable courage by approaching the school’s administration to explain her situation and ask for assistance. The leadership at Don Bosco Muhazi welcomed her with open arms, providing crucial support that allowed her to continue her studies and look toward the future with renewed hope.

What makes Sandrine’s story truly inspiring is her relentless work ethic.

She did not simply wait for charity; she took matters into her own hands to support herself and her family.

Taking on small jobs, such as selling avocados, Sandrine worked hard to generate her own income. “The little money I earned was used to buy a pen and other various materials like a needle, especially since I am a tailor,” Sandrine explained.

Her growing expertise in tailoring has become a tool for her everyday survival, increasing her capacity to find independent solutions.

To further empower her journey toward self-reliance, through Don Bosco Tech Africa’s support, Sandrine was gifted the goat during the event.

She views this livestock as a sustainable lifeline that will help her permanently overcome poverty.

“I am confident that this animal will help me solve my problems through the income it will generate,” she shared, noting enthusiastically that it will soon mate and multiply.

Expressing deep gratitude to the school leadership and everyone who made the gift possible, Sandrine is determined that this support will fuel her dreams and ultimately allow her to contribute to the development of her country.

Ultimately, Sandrine’s journey is a powerful testament that when individuals are given the right support and take personal initiative, they can triumph over adversity and build a beautiful tomorrow.

Brother Nyiringabo Pascal speaking on behalf of the Planning and Development Office