Success Story of UMURERWA Clemenca – A Journey of Hope and Resilience
My name is UMURERWA Clemenca, I am 17 years old, and currently a Senior 6 (S6) student at T.T.C Save in Gisagara District, Southern Province of Rwanda. I’m writing to share my journey, a story of hope, determination, and the power of kindness made possible by Helping Heart Family Rwanda (HHFR).
Since I was a child, I dreamed of becoming a teacher. I love teaching, and I believe education is the key to changing lives—not just mine, but others too. My journey with Helping Heart Family Rwanda began on 12th February 2022, when I was a student in Senior 2 at GS Butare Catholic.
That day, a team of young university students led by RWIKAZA Gentil came to our school to identify vulnerable students who were struggling to afford school materials. I was among the 40 students selected. They came with school supplies, and it was the first time I felt seen, supported, and hopeful. I remember thinking: “Good people still exist in this world, even young students like them can be a light to others.”
A year later, after completing S3 and performing exceptionally well in the national examination, I faced a new challenge—my family couldn’t afford school fees for the next level. My mother, who lives with a disability, tried her best, even seeking help from the District. They advised me to go back to the school where I had previously studied and supported me with learning materials, but my dream was to pursue education in a boarding school.
Still determined, I went to the Sector Office to ask for help. The Executive Secretary called RWIKAZA Gentil, who told him to send me to their office. I’ll never forget that moment. I entered the small office and shared my whole story. Gentil listened carefully and said something I’ll never forget:
“Go and prepare yourself. You have great faith. You will study where you want. Just pray God will guide us.”
Two days later, he called me with incredible news Helping Heart Family Rwanda had found someone willing to support me through their program. The person was his own aunt. From that moment, my dream started to become a reality.
Today, I am in Senior 6, preparing for my final exams, and looking forward to joining university next year. What makes me even more proud is that I have become part of the movement that once helped me. Every Saturday, I support other vulnerable children through HHFR’s “TUMURERE Yiza” Program, by helping them learn how to read, write, and believe in themselves.
I thank God, I thank Helping Heart Family Rwanda, and I thank every person who chooses to support children like me. Because of you, I am not just chasing my dream I am also lifting others along the way.
