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IGIHOZO Audrey
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From Struggle to Strength: The Story of IGIHOZO Audrey

Author
By Claudine Uwamahoro
May 15, 2025
5 min read

My name is IGIHOZO Audrey, I'm 17 years old and a proud mother to a beautiful baby boy who is now 7 months old.

Life hasn't been easy. When I found out I was pregnant, I had to drop out of school. Everything changed overnight. The looks, the whispers, the silence at home—it felt like the world turned its back on me. I was scared, alone, and unsure of how I would take care of my son or even myself.

The Challenges

There were days I couldn't afford even the basics—no proper food, no baby supplies, no health insurance. My dreams felt like they had been put on hold forever. But deep inside, I knew I wanted more—for me and my baby. I just didn't know where to begin.

Training Program

IGIHOZO Audrey learning tailoring skills at the Rebejo Organization training center.

Finding Support

That's when my life started to change. I came across Rebejo Organization and their joint project with Seed Her Foundation—a training program in handcrafts and sewing for young mothers like me. They welcomed me with open arms, not with judgment but with love and support.

"Through this program, I learned how to sew, design, and create beautiful hand-made products. I started earning money from what I make. For the first time in a long time, I felt hope."

I was able to buy Mutuelle de Santé (health insurance) for my baby and myself, and provide for our daily needs.

Impact of the Program

120+

Young mothers supported annually

85%

Achieve financial independence

90%

Report improved well-being

Looking Forward

Today, I can proudly say: "Now I am safe, surrounded by the right people who are helping me shape my future." I still have dreams—I want to open my own tailoring shop one day and support other girls who've walked the same hard road I did.

Audrey Working

IGIHOZO Audrey working on her sewing projects at rebejo organization while caring for her baby.

To every young mother out there feeling lost: you are not alone. There is still a way forward. Don't give up.

Support Young Mothers Like Audrey

Your donation can help provide vocational training, healthcare, and childcare support to teenage mothers in Rwanda, giving them the chance to build a better future.

Author

Claudine Uwamahoro

Communications Director at Rebejo Organization with over 10 years of experience documenting the stories of women and children in East Africa.

Teen Mothers Rwanda Vocational Training Success Stories Women Empowerment

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12 Comments
Commenter

Grace Mukeshimana

May 15, 2025 • 2 hours ago

Such an inspiring story! I've seen firsthand how programs like these can transform lives. The resilience of these young women is truly remarkable. Thank you for sharing Audrey's journey.

Author

Claudine Uwamahoro

May 15, 2025 • 1 hour ago

Thank you, Grace! We're so proud of all the young mothers in our program. Their determination to create better lives for themselves and their children is what drives our work.

Commenter

Jean Paul Habimana

May 15, 2025 • 3 hours ago

I would like to know more about how to volunteer with your organization. Are there opportunities for people with teaching skills to contribute? Audrey's story has inspired me to get involved.

Commenter

Sarah Thompson

May 14, 2025 • 1 day ago

This is exactly the kind of program our foundation is looking to support. The focus on practical skills that lead to economic independence is crucial. I've shared this with our grants committee and would love to connect about potential partnership opportunities.

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