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Rwandan Girls -More than the Ordinary

When we think about Rwanda, we always have horrific images of the 1994 genocide, of people living poverty-stricken lives and young women with shattered dreams.
On the contrary, the young women of Rwanda are dynamic, filled with enthusiasm, full of ambition, brimming with ideas and burning with a desire to make a difference.
They are go-getters who dream big dreams.

Girls without Borders' Big Sister Georgina Nitzche visited Kigali last month for the Women Without Borders project 'Girls Fit for Leadership' and she enthusiastically revealed to us, "the young Rwandan women I met were smart and confident: Justine is geared up to be an engineer, Sylvie wants to be a dentist and Jessy dreams of becoming a famous musician!" What is more amazing is that these young women not only think of themselves but also about the future of their country. Alice, 16, says,  "For me, I want to make a change in this world and get rid of racism. I want to be a neurosurgeon, build an orphanage for poor and mistreated kids. I have a lot of dreams and I know I will succeed."

These girls are not content to stay on the sidelines. They want to take an active role and be center-stage. More than followers, these girls want to be the future leaders of their country. Leadership, as Irene writes, teaches them to be confident, responsible, creative and loving – as well as courageous. Some of the women they idolize are: Janet Kagame- the first lady of Rwanda, Mujawamariya Joanne d'Arc, the current Minister of Education and Senator Mukabaranga Beatrice. Interesting choices, for they are smart and empowered women too!

Remaining confident in the face of societal pressures, having their voices heard , and outsmarting obstacles is a continuous challenge for young girls. Yet, Kasadre has this to say: "I have an advice to you, dear girls. Don't let your ideas be limited by what you see around you – look within and around your community."
Rwandan girls are indeed extraordinary!

Wouldn't it be cool to have them as your friends? Why don't your write to them? Here is your chance to have a best bud from the other side of the world. Exchange ideas, find out common interests even share secrets! Some of their letters are posted here so you can check them out, then you can email us so that we can put you in touch.

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