During a recent visit to Rwanda, John Jordan of Transform International Canada had the opportunity to meet with students, families, and community leaders whose lives are being transformed through education, nutrition, and local partnerships. Their stories are a powerful reminder that opportunity can turn potential into possibility.
The photos below capture just a few of the many lives being impacted through these initiatives.
Recent highlights from our Rwanda Rising program include:
We grew from 26 university students to 37 students, thanks to a generous grant supporting girls’ education from the Universalist Community of Victoria.
We partnered with a local priest to fund the reintegration of 44 street-connected children back into school by providing uniforms, school supplies, and a daily nutritious meal.
Through the Rotary Club of Oak Bay, we funded a large vegetable garden project for a remote school’s lunch program, enabling low-income families to contribute to their children’s nutrition while supporting the school community.
44 Street Children Start School and Receive Daily LunchesChildren and caregivers supported through Rwanda Rising programs focused on education, nutrition, and community developmentRwanda Rising university scholarships students gathering to share their educational journeys and aspirations for the future
72 new entrepreneurs. One graduation. Dozens of lives changed. On January 30, 2026, Cohorts 7, 8, and 9 graduated from the Street Business School (SBS) program in Gitega, Burundi. All 72 participants successfully completed the training and launched their own income-generating activities.
Real Impact
Participants start and sustain businesses
Household incomes increase
Families become more food secure
Graduates begin to create jobs for others
Children attend school
Student Story
“From struggling vendor to employer of 10.” Niyonkuru Richard (25) entered the program with a failing small business. With new skills and a fresh approach, he made the difficult decision to close it and start again. Today, he runs a thriving bakery employing 10 people, generating income not just for himself, but for multiple families in his community.
Building Momentum
64 new participants recruited in March
Cohorts 10 and 11 now underway
All participants have completed baseline coaching
2026 Goals
Graduate four full cohorts (a program first)
Expand to a second school in Muyinga
Reapply for a Rotary Global Grant in July
Street Business School is changing lives — one entrepreneur, one family, and one community at a time.
Support This Work We are actively seeking funding to sustain our current operations in Gitega and to launch a second school in Muyinga, expanding our reach to more aspiring entrepreneurs. All donations qualify for a charitable tax receipt in Canada.
