JCI Rwanda proudly hosted its 2025 Swearing-in Ceremony and Networking Cocktail on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at the vibrant Rooftop Ikawa Café, Kigali.
This signature event brought together members, alumni, and distinguished guests to reflect on the organisation’s impactful legacy, celebrate leadership transitions, and inspire continued growth and collaboration.
Inspiring Dialogue: Fireside Chat on Youth Leadership and Opportunities
The Fireside Chat was one of the event's highlights, featuring a dynamic panel discussion moderated by the 2024 Vice President of JCI Mille Collines, Mediatrice Uwirora.
The Panelists included Amina Umuhoza - the 2024 National President; Naïssa Umutoni Karekezi - the 2024 National Vice President (Growth and Internationalism), and Mr. Leonidas Gatete - the Director of Destination Marketing at the Rwanda Convention Bureau.
The panelists tackled pressing questions about youth empowerment and opportunities in Rwanda:
What can Rwanda's youth do to offer positive impacts to others in Rwanda and beyond?
What top two opportunities do you think young people in Rwanda have today, and how can they access them?
Naïssa Umutoni Karekezi highlighted the power of grassroots initiatives and emphasised collaboration as a key driver for community impact.
Leonidas Gatete shared his expertise in destination marketing, encouraging young leaders to embrace Rwanda’s potential in tourism and entrepreneurship.
Amina Umuhoza emphasized the importance of taking bold steps and building strong networks to create sustainable opportunities.
A Celebration of New Leadership and Vision
The swearing-in of the 2025 National Board, led by President Damilola Fasoranti, was a momentous occasion.
In his acceptance speech, Damilola outlined his commitment to strengthening JCI Rwanda’s visibility, enhancing member development programs, and fostering sustainable community impact.
The ceremony also celebrated the achievements of members who completed leadership and development programs, emphasizing JCI Rwanda’s role in nurturing changemakers.
Celebrating Achievement: Graduation and Awards Ceremony
Following the swearing-in, the event honoured participants who completed JCI’s leadership and development programs.
Graduates were presented with awards in recognition of their dedication and achievements, symbolizing JCI Rwanda’s commitment to nurturing young leaders equipped to create positive change.
The awards ceremony was a testament to the impact of JCI Rwanda’s training programs in empowering its members to lead effectively and inspire their communities.
Honoring the Legacy of JCI Rwanda’s Leaders
The evening also included heartfelt reflections from past presidents and senators who shared stories of growth, challenges, and triumphs that have defined JCI Rwanda since its inception.
Victor Migambi (2006 National President) captivated the audience with the story of JCI Rwanda’s beginnings in 2005 as the Junior Economic Chamber.
He highlighted the organization’s journey to becoming an official affiliate of Junior Chamber International in 2008, setting the foundation for years of impactful service.
Senator Fabrice Shema (2010 National President) shared how his inspiration stems from working alongside passionate young members who actively drive change.
Senator Gloria Luce Nishimwe (2019 National President) spoke about the resilience and growth mindset fostered by JCI. She emphasized, “In JCI, there is no giving up. Learning by acting is key, and this year holds great potential for transformation.”
Parfaite Wirira (2022 National President) encouraged members to stay connected and inspired, stating, “Languages or experience don’t matter in JCI. Show up, and your efforts will eventually bear fruit. JCI has been a family to me, inspiring me to create meaningful connections.”
Amina Umuhoza (2024 National President) added a touch of humour and wisdom with her call to “support the beard,” a metaphor for offering consistent support, and emphasized the importance of networking to maximize JCI opportunities.
Memorable Moments and Networking
Guests enjoyed a lively networking cocktail where they shared impact stories, discussed future projects, and forged new connections. The atmosphere was filled with energy and optimism, reflecting JCI Rwanda’s vibrant community.
Closing Remarks by the President Damilola Fasaranti
The evening concluded with a commitment to continue fostering leadership, innovation, and collaboration within Rwanda’s youth. The event underscored JCI Rwanda’s enduring mission to empower young people to create positive change both locally and globally.
Capturing the Highlights
Photos from the event showcased inspiring speeches, engaging panel discussions, and joyful moments of celebration.
These images are a testament to JCI Rwanda’s enduring commitment to leadership, collaboration, and community impact.
JCI Rwanda is excited to embark on another year of impactful projects and leadership development. As the organization continues to inspire young leaders, it remains steadfast in its mission to create positive change in Rwanda and beyond.
Kin
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