Village Health Works

🎓 A Momentous Day for Kigutu!

Kigutu International Academy's first-ever graduation is more than just a celebration—it's a testament to resilience, hard work, and the unwavering commitment to excellence. Seeing the Class of 2024, our pioneering students, cross that stage was nothing short of inspiring. These graduates are not just scholars; they are the future leaders, innovators, and change-makers of Burundi and beyond.

We are immensely proud of their achievements and deeply grateful to all the dignitaries, partners, and families who joined us on this historic occasion. The journey of these remarkable students is only beginning, and we are confident they will carry the spirit of VHW with them as they embark on new adventures.

🌍 Congratulations to the Class of 2024! Your dedication and passion will undoubtedly shape a brighter, more inclusive future for us all.

𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐀𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐩𝐨𝐱 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤
𝐕𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬 (𝐕𝐇𝐖) 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐁𝐮𝐫𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐢 𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐩𝐨𝐱 𝐂𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐬

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the Mpox outbreak a global health emergency, posing a significant threat to communities, especially women and children, in East Africa. Village Health Works, in partnership with the Government of Burundi, is committed to stopping the spread of this deadly virus.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐎𝐌𝐄 𝐈𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞
To tackle this crisis, VHW has launched the HOME initiative—Halting Outbreaks by Mobilizing Essential resources. This initiative focuses on:
Nationwide Support: Partnering with the Government of Burundi to deliver targeted solutions for the most affected communities.
Lessons from COVID-19: Applying the knowledge and strategies gained from the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure a swift and effective response.
Focused Care for Women and Children: Prioritizing the care and support of women and children, who are disproportionately affected by the outbreak.

𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐁𝐮𝐫𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐢
Your support is urgently needed to empower the HOME initiative. By joining forces, we can provide:
1. 𝐄𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐬: Equip healthcare workers with the tools they need to combat Mpox.
2. 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐬 (𝐂𝐇𝐖𝐬): Empower local medical teams to care for the most vulnerable populations, especially women and children.
3. 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐬: Establish facilities to prevent the further spread of the virus and protect surrounding regions.
4. 𝐑𝐚𝐩𝐢𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐞𝐬: Mobilize resources quickly to assist those who lack access to critical healthcare.

𝐃𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐄 𝐍𝐎𝐖! Visit https://www.villagehealthworks.org/donate for more information. Stand with us in this crucial fight—because every action counts, and every life matters.

🌍✨ Embracing the Spirit of Ubuntu: A Journey of Compassion and Community ✨🌍

Thank you to everyone who supported and joined us at the screening of The Spirit of Ubuntu documentary in NYC!

At Village Health Works, we embrace Ubuntu: "I am because we are." This philosophy highlights our interconnectedness, emphasizing compassion, dignity, and mutual respect.

Special thanks to Pato Banton, Antoinette Rootsdawtah, and director Kudzai Tinago for showcasing the beauty of human connection and community.

Your unwavering support inspires us to continue building a healthier, more compassionate world. 🙏✨

🌍✨ Kigutu International Academy Study Tour ✨🌍

KIA finalists recently embarked on an unforgettable study tour, exploring Burundi's iconic tourist spots, rich history, and vibrant culture.

🚍 Journey Begins
On July 19, they set off from Kigutu to Kirundo, passing through Bururi, Mwaro, Gitega, and Ngozi. At each stop, the Visit Burundi team shared historical insights about the provinces.

🍽️ Lunch in Ngozi
The team enjoyed a delightful lunch at Zoom Hall in Ngozi, a welcome break after a 202 km drive.

📚 Learning in Kirundo
In Kirundo, students engaged with local historians, learning about the province's history and the origins of Shinge na Rugero, tied to historic conflicts in Rwanda and Burundi.

🌊 Exploring Lake Rwihinda
At Lake Rwihinda, students took a boat ride, spotting diverse bird species and admiring the serene beauty of Bird Island. The lake, a mirror of the sky, provided breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.

🏞️ Discoveries in Ngozi and Kayanza
The tour continued to Ngozi, where students learned about the legendary Ku gasaka ka Inarunyonga tree, and to Kayanza, exploring vast tea plantations and the peaceful Rwegura hydroelectric dam. The stunning landscapes, including wheat fields and rolling hills, left everyone in awe.

The return journey was filled with reflection, as students were captivated by the natural beauty they had witnessed. This trip was more than just an excursion—it was a peaceful escape into nature and a memorable educational adventure. Learn more about our initiatives and support our mission. Visit our website! https://www.kigutuinternationalacademy.org/

🌍 Embracing the Spirit of Ubuntu 🌍

At Village Health Works, our mission is deeply rooted in the principles of Ubuntu: "I am because we are." This African philosophy emphasizes the interconnectedness of all people, fostering compassion, dignity, and mutual respect.

We are excited to support our donor, Grammy-nominated reggae legend Pato Banton, in presenting the documentary The Spirit of Ubuntu in NYC. Directed by Kudzai Tinago, this film explores Ubuntu across 10 African countries, highlighting the beauty of human connection and community. The documentary follows Pato Banton and world-renowned keyboard player Antoinette Rootsdawtah on their inspirational journey.

📅 Date: Tuesday, August 6th
📍 Venue: QUAD Cinema, 34 W. 13th Street, New York, NY 10011
🕖 Time: 7 PM - 9 PM

Join us in celebrating Ubuntu and its profound impact on humanity.

🌟 Exciting News from Kigutu International Academy! 🌟

On July 17, 2024, Kigutu International Academy, through its Access program, had the honor of hosting a delegation from the US Embassy in Burundi. Led by Ramadhani Sintuka, the Public Engagement Specialist, this visit was a heartwarming display of generosity and support.

The team brought a treasure trove of new books, a safety deposit box, and special pens to equip the American Shelf Kigutu, enhancing the learning experience for our Access Students and community members. The Mugara Community's gratitude was truly touching.

Ramadhani Sintuka shared inspiring words with both students and members, and the symbolic handover of books to Professor Alice Rwamo and Jean Pierre Niyongabo was a moment of unity and shared purpose.

The discussions on future partnerships underscored the power of collaboration in driving positive change. This visit was a testament to the transformative power of working together towards a common goal.

Stay tuned as we share more of our intensive sessions with Access Students this week! 📚✨

Celebrating Marital Well-being: A Journey of Growth and Love 💑

On July 11, 2024, the VHW Conference Room was filled with calm and satisfaction as couples celebrated completing their marital well-being training. Over the past few weeks, they explored relationship dynamics, improved communication skills, and strengthened emotional bonds.

Raymond Mpawenayo, Twiyugurure Program Coordinator, said, "Today marks the end of our journey together, but the beginning of a new stage in your lives as a couple."'

Participants shared their experiences. Anicet Saso from Mutambara said, "Before the program, my wife had no say in my decisions. Now, we listen to each other and express our needs without fear."

Nzomukunda Aline added, "This training has enabled us to rediscover the closeness we thought we'd lost."

Raymond encouraged couples to use the tools they learned to navigate future challenges. Each couple received a VHW T-shirt and a program script expressing their feelings and commitments.

Since 2013, the program has trained over a thousand participants, supporting community value chains and creating income-generating activities. 🙌 Join us in empowering more couples to build stronger, healthier relationships! Support Village Health Works' Twiyugurure Program today. Together, we can make a difference. 💪 🔗 Donate Now - https://www.villagehealthworks.org/

👟🌟 Bringing Smiles to ECOFO Kigutu Pupils! 🌟👟

Village Health Works organized a heartwarming event that brought joy to many pupils at ECOFO Kigutu. Thanks to the generosity of Giving Soles Africa, we supported pupils from financially struggling families by providing new shoes.

At the distribution event in the school playground, pupils chose from various shoe models and sizes. The beaming smiles on their faces showed the importance of this donation.

Mr. Audace Congera, the school headmaster, expressed his gratitude: "Thanks to your generosity, we can offer our pupils something as essential as new shoes, contributing to their well-being and success."

Students were thrilled, trying on their new shoes immediately. "They're so comfortable! I can't wait for the new school year to show off my new shoes," exclaimed one pupil.

Parents also expressed their gratitude. Mr. Albert Sindakira said, "This donation is a real relief for us, knowing our child can go to school in new, comfortable shoes warms our hearts."

Dr. Alice Rwamo emphasized: "This initiative is part of a series of actions by VHW to support students and their families. By giving them new shoes, we provide self-confidence and extra motivation to succeed."

Thanks to Giving Soles Africa, we provided each child with suitable, comfortable footwear, enabling them to participate fully in school activities and feel valued. Your commitment to equal opportunities and children's well-being inspires our entire community. Thank you for your invaluable help.

Learn more about our initiatives and how you can support our mission. - https://www.villagehealthworks.org/

🩺🌍 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐞: 𝐀 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐭 𝐕𝐇𝐖! 🌍🩺

From July 2 to 6, 2024, Village Health Works hosted a comprehensive 2-day training in Social Medicine, gathering 25 professionals from various fields to integrate cultural, social, political, and economic factors into their medical practice. The event concluded successfully, with 23 participants proudly receiving their certificates.

𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
Facilitators: Dr. Fernet Leandre, Dr. Eddy Jonas, Tharcisse NGARUKO, Dr. Joëlle Bukeneza, Dr. Odette Burundi, Dr. Etienne, and Eddy Eustache.

Day 1:
- Introduction and Pre-Test: Welcoming and initial assessments.
- Sessions by Dr. Fernet and Dr. Joëlle: Overview of VHW's mission, vision, and social medicine principles according to Rudolf Virchow’s theory, highlighting the doctor’s role as an advocate for the poor.
- Dr. Eddy Jonas: Deep dive into social medicine, community medicine, and global health, emphasizing their roles in improving healthcare.

Day 2:
- Dr. Odette: Introduction to social theories applied in Social Medicine, covering concepts like social constructions, structural violence, and intersectionality.
- Dr. Joëlle: Addressing malnutrition in Burundi and proposing solutions.
- Tharcisse NGARUKO: Presentation on social determinants of health.
- Dr. Etienne: Insights into emotional intelligence and its impact on performance and relationships.
- Eddy Eustache: Discussing the importance of social approaches and anthropology in understanding human behavior.

Participants engaged in activities like the Monsoon Game and the March of Privilege and conducted field visits in the VHW catchment area. These hands-on experiences reinforced their theoretical knowledge and provided valuable insights into the practical applications of Social Medicine.

The event ended on a high note with an intensive evaluation of the concepts learned, enriching the participants' skills in Social Medicine and reaffirming their commitment to improving healthcare in their communities.

Learn more about our initiatives and join us in transforming healthcare in Burundi - https://www.villagehealthworks.org/

🌍🌳 Join Us in Protecting Our Forests! 🌳🌍

Bushfires and deforestation are global threats causing biodiversity loss, climate change, and impacting local communities. In response, VHW hosted a workshop on June 28, 2024, with 144 community members, focusing on environmental protection.

🗣️ Vital NSHIMIRIMANA, head of Community Engagement, highlighted VHW's commitment to environmental preservation, advocating for mindset change, youth mentoring, and economic development. He urged participants to heed the advice from OBPE's trainers and tackle pollution through concerted efforts against bushfires and deforestation.

Key insights from Ir Obed Ntineshwa, Head of OBPE Rumonge:
Human Activities: Unsustainable agriculture and illegal logging
Preventive Actions: Awareness sessions, forming associations/clubs
Curative Actions: Immediate response to fires, replanting trees

The workshop concluded with participants committed to pioneering forest protection in their communities, echoing Baden Robert Powell's words: “Try to leave this earth having made it better than you found it.”

📢 Learn more about our holistic approach and join our mission to protect the environment and empower communities - https://www.villagehealthworks.org/

🌟🎓 Student Spotlight - Meet Ella Elycia, a brilliant mind from Kigutu International Academy (KIA) 🌟

Ella Elycia, our third Strathmore scholarship recipient, is a student brimming with curiosity and passion for learning. Known for her endless questions, she frequently holds teachers back after class to delve deeper into subjects, excelling in humanities, languages, and sciences. Whether it's devouring new books in the KIA library or writing poetry in both French and English, Ella's love for reading and writing is evident. 📚✨

Her leadership skills are equally impressive. Elected as Head Girl of KIA’s first Student Council, Ella has been a crucial advocate for her peers, creating lasting policies and serving as a bridge between students and administration. She also plays a significant role in the Kigutu Leadership and Innovation Network, where she supports her peers’ entrepreneurial development. 🌟👩‍🎓

Ella’s reliability and thoughtfulness make her an outstanding young leader. We are thrilled to see the impact she will continue to make at KIA and beyond. 🌍❤️

Help us support more inspiring students like Ella! Your donation can provide the resources needed for their educational journeys. Click the link to make a difference today. ❤️✨ 🔗https://villagehealthworks-bloom.kindful.com/?campaign=1299025

🌟🎓 Student Spotlight - Meet Guy Bonheur, an exceptional talent from KIA🌟

Guy Bonheur has transformed every challenge into an opportunity to excel and lead. This bright star is heading towards a promising future, bolstered by his recent win at the Chemistry Science Olympiad's district competition. His academic journey at KIA includes participating in global learning experiences, such as Stanford Summer Sessions and Babson Summer Study, and being a finalist in the RISE for Africa challenge. 🌍📚✨

Beyond the classroom, Bonheur’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through. He taught himself coding to develop e-guidebooks for boosting tourism in Burundi and has served as the Sports and Clubs Prefect on the Student Council, as well as the varsity basketball captain. 💡🏀

In addition to his academic and leadership achievements, Bonheur’s commitment to community service is truly inspiring. He uses his coding skills as a curriculum developer for Star Girls Africa, promoting STEM education for girls across the continent. Troubled by rising teenage pregnancy rates in Bujumbura, he founded “It Falls Upon Us,” a peer-learning space to support girls in staying in school. ❤️👩‍🎓 We are immensely proud of Bonheur’s accomplishments and look forward to seeing how he will continue to transform his community and beyond. 🌟💪

Help us support more inspiring students like Bonheur! Your donation can provide the resources needed for their educational journeys. Click the link to make a difference today. ❤️✨ 🔗 https://villagehealthworks-bloom.kindful.com/?campaign=1299025

🌟🎓 Student Spotlight - Meet Alain Irumva, a shining star from Kigutu International Academy (KIA) 🌟

Coming from a rural community with little English, Alain's journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. This summer, he’s heading to Berea College, known for its full tuition promise for international students from low-income backgrounds. 🌍

Alain has been a beacon of service and compassion, spending summers teaching English and supporting the marginalized Twa community. From securing tech donations to being KIA's first dorm prefect on Student Council, he's a true servant leader. 📚💪

After applying to over 40 schools worldwide, we’re thrilled he’s found his perfect fit. Here's to Alain's hard work and dedication! 🎓✨

Help us support more inspiring students like Alain! Your donation can provide the resources needed for their educational journeys. Click the link to make a difference today. ❤️✨ 🔗 https://villagehealthworks-bloom.kindful.com/?campaign=1299025

🌟 2024 Applications Now Open! - Join the Next Generation of Leaders at Kigutu International Academy! 🌟

KIA is a transformative secondary boarding school in Burundi dedicated to nurturing the next generation of scientists, ethical leaders, and change-makers. Established in 2020, our mission is to provide exceptional education that meets both national (Exetat) and international (SAT) standards, preparing students for success in higher education and beyond.

🎓 Application Process:
1. Submit Your Application: Fill out the application form by July 12, 2024, 11:59 PM.
2. In-Person Interviews: Assess oral skills in French and English.
3. Grade 9 Exam Results: Required for final admission.

KIA is committed to making a positive impact in Burundi and shaping the future leaders of Africa. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a vibrant and dynamic learning community. Click on this link to know more about the application process: https://www.kigutuinternationalacademy.org/application

Let's build a brighter future together! 🌟

🌍 World Day Against Child Labour

Every year on June 12th, we come together to raise awareness and take action against child labour. At Village Health Works, we believe that the health and well-being of children are essential pillars for sustainable community development. Our dedicated Community Leaders are at the forefront, raising awareness, educating families, and offering alternatives to child labour.

✨ Our Impact:
1. Awareness & Education: Organizing sessions on children’s rights and the harmful effects of child labour.
2. Intervention & Support: Identifying at-risk children, facilitating school enrolment, and providing medical and psychological support.
3. Community Capacity Building: Training leaders and teachers as ambassadors against child labour and working with local authorities to enforce protective laws.

Since our inception, VHW has implemented integrated education and health programs, economic development projects, and more to combat child labour. On this World Day Against Child Labour, we reaffirm our commitment to creating a safe, healthy, and opportunity-rich future for every child.

Join us in making a difference! Visit our website to learn more about our initiatives, donate, or get involved. Follow us on social media to stay updated on our impact and upcoming events. Together, we can create a future free from child labour.

🌍 Celebrate World Environment Day with Village Health Works! 🌍

June 5th marks World Environment Day, reminding us that environmental action is essential year-round. This global event urges everyone to take concrete steps to address environmental issues.

2024 Theme: "Our Land, Our Future. We are " focuses on restoring land and enhancing drought resilience. Village Health Works (VHW) is actively participating with impactful initiatives:

1. School Clubs for Youth: Engaging young people in environmental protection activities.
2. Plastic Waste Collection: Reducing plastic pollution through community-driven efforts.
3. Community Training: Teaching leaders about tree planting and water purification.

These initiatives emphasize ecosystem restoration and sustainable practices. Village Health Works leads by example, engaging youth and educating communities on preserving our environment. Together, we can create a sustainable future.

🌟 Empowering Youth through the TWIYUGURURE Program! 🌟

Since its start in 2013 by Anne Peretz, the TWIYUGURURE program at Village Health Works has made a significant impact, reaching 886 individuals with 24 sessions focused on child abuse prevention, introspection, and family bonding.

Last week's session targeted out-of-school teens aged 14-25. Held at the WHP conference room, it drew participants from various hills, showing its broad reach.

🩺 Focused on sexual and reproductive health, the session covered:

- Comprehensive sexuality education
- Contraceptive advice and services
- STI/HIV prevention and management
- Gender-based violence prevention and management

❤️ Village Health Works' dedication to educating and empowering youth demonstrates its commitment to holistic community development. Together, we are building a more cohesive, informed community where individuals can thrive.

📚 KIA's Dual Curriculum 📚

At Kigutu International Academy (KIA), we are committed to shaping the future by educating the next generation of problem-solvers and ethical leaders. Our unique dual curriculum integrates local and international standards, ensuring that our students are equipped with the skills and knowledge to lead with integrity and innovation. 💡

Check out the photos to see our innovative approach in Burundi's education. Visit https://kigutuinternationalacademy.org for more details. 📚🌍

📅 Celebrating World Menstrual Hygiene Day at ECOFO Kigutu! 🌸

On May 28, World Menstrual Hygiene Day was celebrated at ECOFO Kigutu as part of our MUTIMA program. The day, symbolically chosen for its reflection of the average menstrual cycle (28 days) and menstruation duration (5 days), aims to break the silence around menstruation and improve menstrual hygiene management, especially among young girls.

Three dedicated staff from Kigutu International Academy and Village Health Works—Sandrine, Angèle, and Pascasie—conducted an awareness session for 83 girls aged 12 to 17. This session provided a platform for learning and exchange, equipping the girls with crucial knowledge for better menstrual hygiene management and fostering communication and mutual support within the school community.

This initiative is part of our comprehensive approach to enhancing the health and well-being of adolescent girls, ensuring they manage their menstrual hygiene with dignity and safety. By fostering open discussions on this often-taboo topic, Village Health Works and Kigutu International Academy are building a more informed and inclusive community. 🌍✨

with Village Health Works as Director of Development ($130-$150K): https://loom.ly/rF-a7wQ
Village Health Works delivers world-class, community-driven medical care in rural Burundi.

🌾🌱 Empowering Farmers and Transforming Lives in Burundi! 🌱🌾

With more than 2095 kg of produce grown and over 8456 community farmers trained, our agriculture and food security programs are making nutritious food more available and affordable.

By empowering local farmers and fostering sustainable practices, we're not only improving health but also driving economic growth and resilience across the region. Give us your support to create a healthier, more prosperous Burundi! ❤️

Parents play a crucial role in the success of Kigutu International Academy students. Their unwavering support and encouragement help cultivate the next generation of ethical leaders and critical thinkers.

At KIA, we believe that the partnership between parents and educators is essential for fostering resilience, compassion, and academic excellence in our students. Together, we are building a brighter future for Burundi, one student at a time. 🌟

[Photo taken during the parents' visit to KIA]

🌟 Empower Our Community with Your Support! 🌟

Support our mission to empower students, teachers, doctors, nurses, and staff through transformative initiatives. Your contribution helps us Create Knowledge Where Knowledge Matters the Most, bringing hope and opportunity to our community.

Your support is vital for Village Health Works. Check the photos for donation details and see how you can make a lasting difference. Together, we can create a brighter future for everyone. 🌱💧

🌟 Launching Our Spring-Summer Fundraising Campaign! 🌟

We're thrilled to announce the kickoff of our Spring-Summer Campaign! Join us as we advance our mission with exciting initiatives across healthcare, education, and community development. From our cutting-edge facilities at KIA to life-saving technologies at VHW, your support helps us make a tangible difference.

Support our students, teachers, doctors, nurses, and staff in improving livelihoods through our core education initiatives. Please help us Create Knowledge Where Knowledge Matters the Most through new funding opportunities. Your contributions enable us to empower communities and save lives, ensuring that everyone has access to quality education and healthcare.

Stay tuned for our upcoming posts on how you can get involved and make a donation. Together, we can make a lasting impact! 🌱

❤️ Happy Mother's Day from Village Health Works! ❤️

At VHW, we don't just treat illnesses—we nurture well-being. We are committed to providing mothers and their children with comprehensive maternal and child healthcare services and empowering them with knowledge and resources in nutrition, education, and preventive care. Our goal is to support every mother in building a healthier, thriving family.

"To all the mothers who work tirelessly to nurture the next generation despite adversity, we see your strength and your sacrifices. This Mother's Day, we celebrate you as caregivers and the vital architects of our future and of humanity."

- Deo Niyizonkiza
Founder and CEO of Village Health Works

Make a meaningful impact this Mother's Day by visiting Village Health Works and making a gift that supports mothers across the globe in achieving a healthier, brighter future for their families!

Please donate in honor of all mothers!
https://www.villagehealthworks.org/donate

🌟🎓 Student Spotlight 🎓🌟

This week’s Student Spotlight is Shamika, Class of 2024! Shamika is an incredible student who doesn’t just see a vision for a better Burundi, but acts towards it. Beginning in our own village of Kigutu, Shamika saw the poverty around KIA and worked with a group of fellow students to fundraise school fees and costs for twenty students who otherwise would have had to drop out of Kigutu’s local public school. With the Womex project, Shamika worked with a team to hand-sew reusable menstrual pads for women in the Kigutu community who were facing unhygienic conditions and isolation, and hosted an educational forum to distribute the pads to 90 women and girls.

Beyond Kigutu, Shamika is passionate about the multi-faceted issues surrounding poverty, gender equality, and political reform and hopes to study politics at university while working for lasting change on a national and international scale. She says, “I got involved in internships offered by the Village Health Works, mostly in the department of Community Engagement, where I heard and shared experiences with the community and helped to solve some of the problems the Kigutu community had. I know that there is hope for Burundi, and I want to be the one bringing that hope to life!” In preparation, Shamika – who can be relied on to be at the center of every debate! – co-founded the Model United Nations Club at KIA where students gather to debate international issues. She also writes the “Africa Now & Then” column for the KIA Times, exploring African history and politics.

In February, the directors of admission and financial aid at Strathmore University visited KIA on their limited Burundi tour. Along with a recent Burundian Strathmore graduate, they presented an overview of Strathmore’s history, vision, campus, academics, and student life. All graduating KIA students sat for the Strathmore admissions test, hoping to win one of few full scholarships offered to Burundians. Every KIA student passed the admissions test and are welcome to enroll at Strathmore next year. As we approach graduation, we are grateful to our university partners for supporting KIA’s first graduating class!

Along with two of her fellow classmates, Shamika has received a 75% scholarship to Strathmore for four years of study! We’re so proud of Shamika and all she has accomplished already in service to her community and we can’t wait to see what she does next!

Read her story here: https://www.villagehealthworks.org/latest-news/student-spotlight-shamika

Want to support students like Shamika? Donate here: https://www.kigutuinternationalacademy.org/donate