Left with Nothing, Held by the School: Josiane's Story

THE JOURNEY

UWABABYEYI Josiane is 22 years old and has always had a passion for cooking and the hospitality industry. Dreaming of turning that passion into a profession, her family supported her and helped her enroll in the March 2025 cohort at Mwananshuti VTC Kicukiro.

In July 2025, just a few months into her training, Josiane faced a devastating loss. The family member who had been supporting her passed away. Suddenly, she had no means to continue paying her fees or even to eat. Rather than drop out, she approached the school leadership and explained her situation honestly.

"The school listened to me. They allowed me to continue studying and eating free of charge, and they even helped me find funding for my internship."

INTERNSHIP AND EMPLOYMENT

With the school's support, Josiane completed her internship at Centre d'Accueil Saint Francois Xavier, a hotel located in Rubavu District. She performed exceptionally well, doing exactly what she had always loved. By December 2025, the hotel offered her a permanent job, a direct result of the skills and confidence she had built at Mwananshuti VTC Kicukiro.

VISIBLE IMPACT

Josiane is today employed in the hospitality sector, working in an environment she is passionate about. What began as a dream supported by her family has become a sustainable livelihood, made possible through the school's commitment to stand by her even in her most difficult moment.

IN HER OWN WORDS

"Everything I have achieved; I owe to the knowledge I gained at Mwananshuti VTC. When I had nothing and nowhere to turn, the school did not give up on me. Today I am working and doing what I love."