In February, ten exceptional young Quakers were selected to participate in the Friends Career Center (FCC) Simmons Grant project.
The Growing Together Friends Career Center project was awarded the Simmons Grants through Quakers in Britain to support young Quakers in acquiring vocational training skills to help them access job opportunities and create entrepreneurial ventures. This project will also provide funding for three viable business ideas proposed by selected young people.
This project is designed to promote purposeful leadership among the young Quaker network and enable them to pursue their career goals while engaging in mentorship and professional development.
"FCC appreciates the support and collaboration of the Simmons Grant to assist students in attending vocational training and creating entrepreneurial ventures. Our goal is to provide life-changing opportunities for young Quakers with a track record of contributing to their communities and making a positive impact," said Jean D'Amour Tuyizere, Project Coordinator of the Growing Together project and Community Outreach and Development Officer at Friends Career Center.
For students like Nadia Umwali, this opportunity represents a lifelong journey to gain valuable experience and career growth. She expressed her excitement about receiving this opportunity.
"On February 20th, 2023, I began my culinary arts training at Mwananshuti Vocational Training Center. As a young female, I have acquired knowledge and skills to help me achieve my dream of working in hotels and restaurants. I receive career guidance and professional development training through FCC to further accomplish my goals," she said.
The Evangelical Friends Church (Quakers) of Rwanda in Bugesera and Kigali participated in selecting the young Quakers. They not only looked for individuals who would benefit from this program but also for qualities such as commitment to participating in Quaker activities, integrity, kindness, curiosity, and courage.
Jean Baptiste Hakizimana, Associate Pastor in the Evangelical Friends Church at Kicukiro, shared, "Some of the young Quakers were in a state of despair; their view of life was bleak and filled with hopelessness. However, with the assistance of FCC, they entered an atmosphere of hope and ideas, which is the driving force that will enable them to achieve their goals."
FCC is enthusiastic about working with young Quakers to invest in professional development and continue building peaceful communities.
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