After the presentation we took the afternoon to meet with entrepreneurs to discuss their businesses and what they want out of our coaching program. One woman, who was born and raised in the US but whose father is Rwandan and mother is Ugandan, decided to move to Rwanda to live permanently and is in the process of starting an ad agency. Others we met with are in event management, pharmaceuticals, IT, and land development, to name a few.
The amount of construction and trade that is happening is incredible and, judging by the number of foreigners visiting, it’s obvious that change is in the air.
Elizabeth and I have had many virtual offices over the week including the back of cars, an American coffee shop with wireless internet, friend’s office space, and random tables around the house we’re staying in. All this mobility has made me miss the days of business travel with a blackberry, a computer, and an airline ticket in hand.
After our last meeting in the evening, we visited Ivuka Arts to pick up a piece that’s been donated to Art for Africa by one of Rwanda’s top artists, and of course to browse for personal pieces too!
Please donate $50 to Global Relief and Development Partners' Social Entrepreneurship Program and Faith Victory's Orphanage in Kigali, Rwanda. Every dollar makes a difference.
- About Me
- An avid volunteer, Melanie Woodward has built a life based on passion…passion for learning and for discovering and travelling the world. Melanie had an incredible, life-altering volunteer experience with Global Relief and Development Partners in Kigali, Rwanda in December, 2009. Her self-funded trip to Rwanda is one of several initiatives Melanie has undertaken for the betterment of the Rwandan people. She is also working with Gisimba Orphanage, Faith Victory Association, she is funding the education of a 15 year old orphan she met in Kigali, and plans an annual art fundraiser (www.artforafrica.info). Melanie is thrilled to be working with Global Relief and Development Partners, where their level of passion matches her own. Melanie’s formal education and experiences volunteering have prepared her for this life-changing journey. She has traveled to over 26 countries, working and volunteering in many of them. A former event planner for events like the Juno and Grey Cup festivals, Melanie has combined her organizational spirit with her humanitarian heart for the greatest experience of her life.
Map of Rwanda
