Inspired Vision Foundation empowers young mothers in Kayonza through tailoring skills training

By Elias Hakizimana.

Twenty-three young mothers from Gahini Sector in Kayonza District have completed a six-month tailoring training programme supported by Inspired Vision Foundation (IVF), in an initiative aimed at promoting self-reliance and improving livelihoods among vulnerable youth.

The beneficiaries, who graduated on Friday, June 26, 2026, were drawn from groups of young women who had experienced unintended pregnancies and subsequently faced significant social and economic challenges, including school dropout, family rejection, and limited access to income-generating opportunities.

The programme was designed to equip them with practical vocational skills, particularly in tailoring, enabling them to start small businesses, support their children, and rebuild their lives with dignity.

For many of the graduates, the training represents a turning point after periods of hardship and uncertainty.

Joselyse Uwiragiye, one of the beneficiaries, said the programme has restored her confidence and given her hope for the future.

“We sincerely thank Inspired Vision Foundation for standing with us during a difficult time in our lives,” she said. “The tailoring skills we have learned will help us earn an income, take care of our children and contribute to our families and community.”

She added that she plans to join cooperative groups and start her own tailoring business, while also encouraging other young mothers in similar situations not to lose hope.

“My message is that an unintended pregnancy should not define a girl’s future. With support and determination, it is possible to start again and succeed in life,” she said.

Pastor Godfrey Ruzindana, Executive Director of Inspired Vision Foundation, awards a certificate to one of the trainees after successfully completing the six-month tailoring course.

Another graduate, Dalia Dukundimana, said the training had given her renewed purpose and practical skills to build a better future.

“I now have the skills I need to improve my life and support my child,” she said. “I am committed to continuing to grow, develop my business and create a stable future for my family.”

Local leaders have commended the initiative, describing it as an important contribution to youth empowerment and community development in Kayonza District.

Muda Bututa, Director of the Joint Action Development Forum (JADF) in Kayonza, said programmes that equip young mothers with vocational skills play a key role in helping them reintegrate into society.

“We appreciate Inspired Vision Foundation for this initiative,” he said. “It is helping these young women regain confidence, become self-reliant and actively contribute to the development of their communities.”

Inspired Vision Foundation says the tailoring programme is part of a broader strategy to support vulnerable youth through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

The organization also provides training in hairdressing, construction, animal health, and culinary arts, aiming to broaden employment opportunities for young people facing social and economic vulnerability.

According to Callixte Kajuga Aaron, Founder and Chairperson of Inspired Vision Foundation, the organisation plans to expand its support beyond skills training.

“Our goal is not only to provide vocational skills but also to ensure long-term empowerment,” he said. “We plan to establish IVF Clinics to improve access to healthcare, support market linkages for graduates, construct schools, and strengthen psychosocial support services for young mothers who have experienced trauma and social stigma.”

He added that the foundation is committed to ensuring that beneficiaries are fully supported to transition from training into sustainable livelihoods.

Executive Director Pastor Godfrey Ruzindana urged the graduates to build on the foundation they have received.

“We started with 30 participants, and 23 completed the programme successfully,” he said. “We encourage them not to be defined by their past circumstances. Instead, they should use the skills acquired as a foundation for continued learning, entrepreneurship and personal development.”

Rwanda continues to prioritize Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a key driver of economic transformation under Vision 2050 and the Second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2: 2024–2029). The sector is central to efforts aimed at reducing unemployment, promoting entrepreneurship, and building a skilled workforce.

      Callixte Kajuga Aaron, Founder and Chairperson of Inspired Vision Foundation, hands over a tailoring certificate to one of the young mothers during the graduation ceremony held in Kayonza.            theinspirerpublications@gmail.com