Celebrating Progress and Promise

A Party with Purpose — Celebrating Progress and Promise

Thursday marked the end of our three-week teacher training program, and we closed it with a celebration that was far more than a party - it was a declaration of hope, progress, and purpose.

We were honored to welcome district representatives, the principal of our host school, and the vice mayor himself. His presence wasn’t symbolic - it was deeply personal. He spent hours with us, handing out certificates to our teachers, interacting with our children and their families, and personally distributing gifts to each child. His words echoed through the room and into our hearts:

“These children are the example of where Rwanda wants to go.”

That single sentence captured everything we’ve worked toward. Clean, well-fed children, learning with joy and dignity - children with disabilities included, celebrated, and thriving. It was a moment of affirmation not just for our program, but for the future of inclusive education in Rwanda.

The vice mayor went further, announcing that the district will begin implementing special finals and certificates for children with disabilities, ensuring they can graduate alongside their peers.

This is a monumental step forward.

He also encouraged teachers to focus on life skills, helping students learn to care for themselves and live independently. District education leaders echoed his message, reminding the teachers that they are now ambassadors of change. They assured them of full district support and called them the new leaders in education.

And then, because this is Rwanda, we danced.

We shared a meal, laughed together, and were treated to a stunning performance by a traditional dance troupe. Their energy was contagious, and soon the audience was invited to join in. I danced with more enthusiasm than grace - but the children were unstoppable. Their joy was uncontainable, their movements full of life. It was a celebration of everything we’ve built together.

This wrap-up wasn’t just a farewell - it was a launch. The teachers who gave up their holidays to learn new skills are now equipped to transform their schools. The children who performed with pride are now symbols of possibility. And the leaders who stood beside us have made it clear: inclusion is not just a dream - it’s a national priority.

We’re committed to continuing this work - but we need your help. If you’d like to support inclusive education in Rwanda, whether through donations or by joining our team, please contact us at livingchannel@gmail.com. Let’s build the future Rwanda is dreaming of - together.

What does true inclusion look like in your community, and what role can each of us play in making it a reality?