About

Empowering young women in Rwanda through professional and personal development.


Duhugurane, meaning “Let us learn from each other,” aims to teach young women ages 18-25 to discover and utilize their personal and professional strengths, recognize their abilities and improve their knowledge and self confidence so they may lead more sustainable lives.

The Stats

Of the 56 students who successfully completed the 2 Duhugurane In-Class Trainings offered since the project's launch in 2013, 70% have gained work experience through placement in internships, part-time or temporary jobs; 7% of the young women have obtained full time jobs; 3% have started businesses and many have pursued or continued educational endeavors.


Duhugurane Pathway to Success

1. In-Class Training
In-class training includes 160 hours of education in the areas of: Personal Development, Interpersonal Communication, Work Habits and Conduct, Leadership, Safety and Heath at Work, HIV/AIDS and Gender-based Violence Awareness, Worker and Employer Rights and Responsibilities, Financial Fitness and Creating Entrepreneurs Training. During this time, they will not only gain work readiness skills, but will have the opportunity to develop a business plan and execute their plan with a small investment. Upon successful completion, each participant will receive a certificate signed by the Education Development Center (EDC) and the Rwandan Workforce Development Authority (WDA).


2. Business Coaching

Students visit local businesswomen and entrepreneurs to gain hands-on knowledge, advice, networking and exposure to a broad spectrum of career opportunities and industries. Agendas for the visits are based on topics discussed during in-class training. 



3. Placement

Placement is available for qualified participants who have successfully completed the In-Class Training. Through individual interview sessions, a placement coordinator helps the participant assess and achieve her individual goals – be it through work experience, enrolling in a University, or starting her own business. This strategy of post-training assistance ensures long-term effectiveness.