About Us
Our History
Founded by a team of young professionals, many of whom are refugees themselves, Refugee Youth Changemakers (RYCM) was established in 2023 to address the critical need for life skills, education, and mentorship among young refugees in Rwanda and beyond. Witnessing the unique challenges faced by refugee youth firsthand, the founders recognized that without access to essential resources, young refugees struggled to achieve self-sufficiency and break free from cycles of dependency. Since its inception, RYCM has worked with organizations like the World University Service of Canada (WUSC) in their program called DREEM with partnership from the Mastercard Foundation to provide targeted training, scholarship assistance, and mentorship programs. Through these efforts, RYCM has empowered many young refugees to become confident, resilient, and to thrive as active contributors to society.
Our core values
Empowerment
We believe in equipping young refugees with the skills and knowledge they need to become self-sufficient and confident in their abilities.
Community
We foster a sense of belonging and mutual support, promoting collaboration and building resilient communities where young refugees feel valued and connected.
Resilience
We instill resilience in young refugees, helping them develop the strength and perseverance needed to overcome obstacles and thrive in challenging circumstances.Opportunity
We are committed to opening doors for young refugees, providing pathways to personal and professional growth and enabling them to reach their full potential.
- Empowerment
why we exist
Young refugees in Rwanda face significant obstacles in accessing education and developing the skills necessary for self-reliance. According to UNHCR, only 24% of refugee adolescents in Rwanda are enrolled in secondary education, compared to the national average of 31%. Furthermore, over 70% lack access to essential life skills training, limiting their ability to thrive independently and contribute to their communities. These barriers often trap young refugees in cycles of dependence, which RYCM is dedicated to breaking through comprehensive support and empowerment.
Our partners
