In the year 2024, AJAN set out to accompany the young people by offering economic empowerment to the youth through the Jesuit Youth Social Entrepreneurship Action (JYSEA) Program which brings a whole new approach in support of the youth and goes beyond simply intellectual and business skills.

As we continue to find ways and solutions to existing problems and challenges of today to address the needs of those living in poverty, Jesuit Urumuri Centre (JUC) has proudly welcomed 42 participants to the fourth cohort of its Youth Empowerment Program, an initiative open to Rwandan and Burundian youth.

The first day of the program saw warm greetings from JUC’s Programs Manager, Prudence Kayiranga, SJ, and Business Development Center (BDC) mentors Mr. Wilson Muhirwa, Mr. Anaclet Bagirishya, and Mrs. Diane Irankunda.

In his opening remarks, Prudence Kayiranga, SJ, highlighted the unique opportunity this program offers to young people, especially those who have completed their studies but remain unemployed. “Jesuits, and the Church as a whole, recognize that you are our future,” he said. “We want to nurture and empower you to become productive, self-sustaining members of society who can also create opportunities for others.”

He encouraged participants to fully engage with the project, which provides not only free training but also financial allowances to support attendance, field visits to successful enterprises, and mentorship from industry leaders. This hands-on approach, he noted, is designed to inspire confidence and practical skills as the youth work toward achieving their entrepreneurial dreams.

Mrs Diane Irankunda and Mr Anaclet Bagirishya, the facilitators of the training

BDC mentors followed with a preview of the program structure. Participants will engage in a two-day intensive bootcamp, culminating on the third day with business idea presentations. Afterward, selections will be made, and the official launch of the program is scheduled for the following week. The mentors emphasized the importance of commitment and consistency, underscoring that JUC dedicates substantial resources to ensure the program’s success.

Since its launch in 2020, the Youth Empowerment Program has trained and supported three cohorts of about 30 young people each. The program was developed in response to the rising unemployment among university and high school graduates in Rwanda and the need to foster a proactive, resilient mindset among youth.

Participants are guided through five key modules: (1) Self-discovery, (2) Self-realization, innovation, and prototyping, (3) Marketing and promotion, (4) Operations, financing, and financial management, and (5) Strategic planning and sustainability. Following the training, participants enter a six-month “incubation phase,” where they receive coaching and support as they launch their businesses and work to establish them as profitable, sustainable ventures.

Jesuit Urumuri Centre’s Youth Empowerment Program represents a vital investment in young people who are determined to shape their own futures and contribute positively to society. By providing tools, mentorship, and opportunities, JUC aims to foster a new generation of innovative and resilient entrepreneurs capable of uplifting their communities. As these participants embark on their journeys, they carry with them the hope and support of JUC and their communities, poised to become the changemakers of tomorrow.

By, Henriette Mushimiyimana

JUC Communications Officer