In the September episode of Resilient Voices of Refugees, we had the privilege of hosting Vanessa, a humanitarian entrepreneur and refugee leader living in Kyaka II Refugee Settlement in western Uganda. Vanessa is the founder of Fuse Women Initiative, an organization that equips young refugee women and girls with employable skills, creates pathways to education, and amplifies the leadership of refugee women across Uganda.
Vanessa Ishimwe © RYCM
Refugee Youth Changemakers (RYCM) is a youth-led organization dedicated to empowering young refugees in Rwanda and East Africa through education, life skills, mentorship, and access to global opportunities.
We equip refugee youth with the tools to become self-reliant, set personal and professional goals, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Through training, guidance, and advocacy, RYCM builds networks that connect refugee youth to scholarships, fellowships, and leadership pathways across the globe.
At the forefront of refugee advocacy and empowerment, Refugee Youth Changemakers (RYCM) has launched a powerful new podcast initiative titled “Resilient Voices of Refugees,” moderated by youth advocate Solange Ingabire.
This platform elevates the lived experiences of young refugees—shedding light on their struggles, triumphs, and transformational work in fields like education, entrepreneurship, climate action, and human rights. Through authentic storytelling and bold conversations, the podcast aims to challenge stereotypes, shift narratives, and celebrate the resilience and leadership of displaced youth.
We help refugee youth discover and apply for global scholarship opportunities—unlocking access to higher education and empowering them to pursue their dreams.
We equip young refugees with real-world skills in education ready public speaking, digital literacy, and financial management to help them become self-reliant.
We amplify refugee-led stories and lived experiences, offering a platform for youth to speak boldly, inspire globally, and shift the narrative on displacement.
We connect refugee youth with experienced people who guide them in navigating education, careers, and personal development.
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