From Wednesday 2 to Friday 4 April, Jesuit Urumuri Centre welcomed 70 Rwandan and Burundian youth—each carrying with them more than just documents and presentations. They arrived with ambition, a sense of purpose, and business ideas they believe could drive real change in their communities. This marked the business pitching sessions, a significant phase in the selection process for the upcoming 5th training cohort under JUC’s Youth Empowerment Program.
While delivering his welcome remarks, Fr. Patrice Ndayisenga, SJ, Director of Jesuit Urumuri Centre (JUC), expressed heartfelt gratitude to the attendees for honoring his invitation and for presenting their innovative and creative business ideas. He acknowledged the persistent challenge of unemployment in the country and emphasized that the goal of this project is to contribute meaningfully to addressing that issue; “We have the power to create meaningful change, one step at a time—by transforming our communities through the development of realistic and sustainable start-ups that grow steadily and intentionally,” he noted. “And while we may not yet be positioned to address the challenge on a national scale, every local success brings us closer.”
This initiative also reflects the Jesuit commitment to the Universal Apostolic Preferences, particularly the call to accompany young people in the creation of a hope-filled future. Through supporting youth entrepreneurship, JUC continues to empower young people to take charge of their lives and become catalysts for change in their communities.
Over the course of mentioned days, each candidate had the opportunity to present their project before a panel, articulating not only their vision but the motivation behind it. One by one, the participants stepped forward to speak about their proposed ventures—ranging from environmentally conscious startups and agri-business innovations to digital services and creative enterprises. The diversity of ideas reflected both the wide range of backgrounds represented and the growing potential for social entrepreneurship among Rwanda’s youth.
While some presentations were highly refined and well-researched, others were in the early stages, yet showed significant promise. What all of them had in common was a clear desire to create opportunities—not only for themselves but also for their peers and communities.
The panel of evaluators consisting of Fr Patrice and consultants Mr Aaron Ndamyumugabe and Mr Blaise Hajabakiga listened closely, asking thoughtful questions and offering encouragement. This stage was not only about selecting the most viable projects; it was also an opportunity to recognize the initiative and commitment these young people have shown in taking the first steps toward entrepreneurship.
Currently, a selection of 40 youth has been made, who will move on to a three months intensive training phase. Said phase will provide them with the mentorship, tools, and structured support necessary to further develop their ideas and transform them into sustainable businesses.
For now, last week stands as a testament to the potential that lies in Rwanda’s youth. Through initiatives like this, Jesuit Urumuri Centre continues its mission to empower, inspire, and accompany the next generation of changemakers.
Henriette Mushimiyimana,
JUC Communications Officer.
