Patrick

My name is Patrick and I live in western Rwanda with my mother and two siblings. My father passed away when I was young. We faced the constant challenge of putting food on the table and the relentless need to cover school fees. I am well acquainted with hardship.

My family was faithfully involved in church growing up. I believe that is what held us together. We had a tight-knit community to help us get through the difficult moments in life. I learned from a young age to accept change as it happens as a part of God’s plan, and to appreciate those who have stood by me through thick and thin. I began to attend Young Life and loved the positive atmosphere that it provided. I knew I wanted to stay with the organization and help tell other people about what God can do for them.

Despite all of the limiting circumstances in my life, since a young age, I have dreamt of attending a university. Upon hearing the news of being selected into the Developing Global Leaders program, I feel loved, hopeful, and excited. I will be attending the Catholic University of Rwanda to study social work. I want to study social work to help marginalized individuals regardless of their background. I hope to further develop my skills and passions in order to see sustainable development of community resources in my community and throughout Rwanda. I am committed to insure development in my community through leading Young Life and empowering new leaders.