On August 30th, 2024, the Ingenzi Initiative, in partnership with the Business Development Fund (BDF), successfully organized its fourth workshop, aimed at empowering the youth of Gasabo District with essential knowledge on job creation and self-employment. This workshop is part of Ingenzi Initiative’s broader efforts to equip young people with the skills and confidence needed to pursue successful careers.
The workshop focused on three primary topics: Business Development Strategy, Marketing & Branding, and BDF Products and Services. These themes were designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of how to build and sustain a business in today’s competitive environment.
In his closing remarks, NDUGU PHILBERT, President and Founder of Ingenzi Initiative, expressed hope that the workshop would be both useful and impactful for the participants. “We hope that everyone who attended has gained valuable knowledge and a clear understanding of how BDF operates, so they can confidently approach BDF for support in turning their business ideas into reality,” he said. He further noted, “Some of the youth already have projects in mind but lack capital, while others are running businesses and wish to expand them—BDF is here to help.”
The positive impact of the workshop was echoed by the participants. KURADUSENGE CLAUDE, a student at EMVTC-REMERA, shared, “Before today, I didn’t know what BDF was or what it offered, but now I see how they can assist me in bringing my projects to life.” Similarly, UMUTONIWASE SANDRINE highlighted the personal growth she experienced, saying, “This workshop taught me to believe in myself, to trust in what I do, and to follow the right steps to success.”
Panelists at the event also commended the efforts of Ingenzi Initiative. ASHIMWE MICHELE, one of the panelists, remarked, “The work that Ingenzi Initiative is doing is incredible. They help young students start their professional careers after school, and through workshops like these, the youth are prepared and educated on professionalism, equipping them to face real-life challenges after school.” Michele further emphasized the importance of holding more workshops like these to maximize the benefits for the youth.
IRADUKUNDA ERIC, an investment analyst from BDF, elaborated on the financial opportunities available to the youth and women through BDF. “It was a great opportunity to engage with so many young people today. We explained the various financial opportunities available through BDF’s services and products,” he said. He also expressed optimism about the workshop’s impact, stating, “Based on the feedback we received, we are confident that many of the attendees will reach out to BDF for support.”
Both ERIC and the other panelists expressed their gratitude to Ingenzi Initiative for organizing the event, with Eric adding, “We look forward to continuing our partnership with Ingenzi Initiative, as we share the common goal of helping the youth and women in their development.”
Looking ahead, Ingenzi Initiative hopes to expand these workshops to become monthly events, not only in Kigali but in other parts of the country as well. Through such initiatives, the organization aims to further its mission of empowering young people and fostering economic development across Rwanda.