“This home is a blessing beyond my wildest dreams. It gives me and my children safety, dignity, and a fresh start. Thank you, Komera, for changing our lives.”

— Vestine M.

What is Umuganda at Komera?

Each year, during the annual Komera Vision Trip, we join hands with the community to participate in an Umuganda service project. In Kinyarwanda the word “Umuganda” translates to "coming together in common purpose to achieve an outcome.” This initiative not only allows us to support vulnerable community members but also deepens our relationships within our community. We know that uplifting the most vulnerable is essential to building a strong and united society. By addressing critical needs, like safe housing, we are joining hands in creating a foundation for hope, security, and opportunity.

This is why each year, in partnership with District and Sector Leaders, the community comes together to identify individuals or families facing significant challenges and work together to transform lives—because teamwork truly makes the dream work! This past summer, during our annual Komera Vision Trip, we focused on building a safe home for Vestine M., a single mother of three, offering her family hope, stability, and a fresh start.

Who is Vestine M., and why was she selected?

Vestine is a 30-year-old single mother of three children. Orphaned at a young age, she faced significant hardships, including being denied an education. She worked as a housemaid in Kigali, where an unplanned pregnancy added to her struggles. As her marriage and family grew, so did her determination to provide for her children! Vestine worked tirelessly to save enough money to purchase a small piece of land in her village near Komera’s Leadership Center.

Unfortunately, her marriage later ended, leaving her as the sole provider for her and her three children. With no stable income, Vestine worked as a casual laborer but lacked the means to build a home. Recognizing her dire situation, local leaders strongly advocated for her selection as the recipient of Komera’s 2024 Umuganda service project.

What was the process of building the home?

Once Vestine was selected, the construction process kicked off with the community coming together to clear the land and build bricks for the foundation. Vision Trip visitors, community members of all ages, and skilled workers worked side by side, bringing energy and enthusiasm to the project. There was music, dancing, new friendships formed, and of course, plenty of sweat, and maybe even a few tears along the way! While Komera visitors were only there for two days, the project itself spanned several months, from late July to November 2024, uniting people from all walks of life to make a lasting impact. The community played a vital role in the success of the project, with their collective spirit and commitment creating a renewed sense of unity and pride. Many shared how proud they were to transform a neighbor’s life, highlighting the power of collaboration and compassion.

What does the future hold for Vestine and her family?

The results were truly life-changing. Vestine and her children now have a safe, dignified home that gives them stability and hope for the future. The community came together to celebrate the tangible impact of their hard work, feeling inspired by the power of solidarity.

Overcome with emotion, Vestine expressed her deep gratitude through tears, saying, "This is more than I ever dreamed of. My children and I now have a place to call home. I cannot thank Komera and my community enough for this gift of hope and love."

With her new home, Vestine’s future is full of possibilities. She now has the stability to focus on earning a reliable income and providing for her children, who now have a safe space to grow and thrive. This foundation marks the beginning of a new chapter, filled with hope and endless opportunities.

In her own words:
"This home is a blessing beyond my wildest dreams. It gives me and my children safety, dignity, and a fresh start. Thank you, Komera, for changing our lives."