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Rwanda’s Stereotype An ICS Volunteer’s Experience by James Garland, Image (C) Timothy Kisambira
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Rwanda’s Stereotype: An ICS Volunteer’s Experience

In early January I received confirmation for a place on the Challenges Worldwide placement which is conjoined with the ICS programme. For the duration of the programme I will be supporting SME’s in Rwanda, the placement is designed to help stimulate economic growth in local communities. Prior to my arrival I held many conceptions about Rwanda. How much did I know about Africa? What did I know about Rwanda? British media and advertisements have long portrayed Africa as a destitute and inhumane region. I can’t speak for the rest of the British populace, but it almost seems that Africa is merely an idea, conjuring mental images of children with flies on their eyes, or armed militia groups raiding and killing indiscriminately.

Furthermore regarding Rwanda, what thoughts initially came to my mind? I knew it was a small, landlocked country in East Africa. I knew it was poor, with little foreign investment compared to Kenya, or Nigeria. But in truth, it was Rwanda’s infamous history that first came to my mind. The genocide of 1994. An event spanning 100 days where some of the most horrific acts of violence committed in human history took place. Close to 1 million men, women, and children were butchered. Others were emotionally, and, or, physically scarred or maimed.

To acquire a deeper understanding of the Rwandan Genocide I felt it was necessary to visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial. As a graduate of Middle Eastern Studies and International Relations I approached the visit with the theoretical tools I learned from university. In my naivety I simply thought I could analyse and summarise a rationale for why the grotesque event took place. The memorial, however, had other plans for me.

Whilst there are historical facts and genocide artefacts within the memorial, I believe the memorial was designed to incite a deep emotional response. I was confronted with an inability to mentally process, or even comprehend the level of horror people were subjected to. I found myself experiencing disgust, sadness, and anger. I could not understand how neighbours and friends could deliver acts of extreme violence upon familiar faces. Whilst all of the exhibitions delivered a poignant reminder of the tragedy that occurred, I was not prepared for the Children’s Room exhibition. The horrific tales of how individual children arrived at a grisly end was abhorrent.

I could not help but notice the reactions of other volunteers. It was clear that they too were emotionally wrestling with what they had just witnessed. Some felt angry, others distressed… When the visit came to an end I can remember the silence within the group. We were subdued and shocked in response to what we had witnessed within the memorial. The visit connected reality to the stories we had been told by our in-country volunteer counterparts, and host families. One day prior to the visit I had a heavy conversation with my host father regarding his experiences during the genocide. Unfortunately he experienced heavy losses within his family. Naturally it remains a heavily emotional topic for him, but he is adamant that forgiveness, and faith is the only way Rwanda can move forward towards an inclusive and better future.

When the RPF came to power in Rwanda they inherited the semblance of a state, or rather, a cemetery. Throughout the country the roads, rivers and sewage pits were filled with corpses. The majority of the country’s infrastructure lay in ruins. Professionals such as doctors, teachers, civil servants and judges had perished or fled. The militias had looted the national treasury and banks leaving Rwanda penniless. In other words, Rwanda was in a dire situation.

To dwell on the genocide and the emotions surrounding it would be a disservice to the true message portrayed by the memorial. The true message was one of hope, and forgiveness. Quite remarkably as the years have passed since the genocide, Rwanda, a nation of traumatised victims, heroes and genocide participants, has risen like a phoenix out of the ashes, proving to the world that reconciliation and recovery is possible. Defying negative predictions, Rwanda has made immeasurable strides in rebuilding, and the country has become known as a key success story in Africa. A combination of the Kagame administration and influx of foreign aid has produced a transformation like no other.

Over the past 24 years Rwanda has achieved huge milestones. It is one of the fastest growing economies in the world, it has implemented a good level of schooling for its youth, whilst also achieving the highest level of school enrolment rates in Africa. The public health care system is also reasonably good and the vast majority of citizens enjoy health insurance coverage. Legislatively Rwanda has succeeded in promoting gender equality across the country, though most noticeably within the government sector. However, it is the reconstruction of Rwandan identity that I find most admirable. The use of colonial ethnic identities – Tutsi, Hutu, or Twa – has been banned. People are now Rwandan, and only Rwandan. The construction of a national identity has brought the population together to rebuild a fractured state. The strict enforcement of Umuganda, a national day of community service obligating all Rwandans between the ages of 18 to 65 to cooperate with one another on community projects once a month. The government sought to stimulate socio-economic growth and foster cultural values of togetherness and cooperation.

Upon entering Kigali for the first time I was pleasantly surprised by the city’s cleanliness and advanced urban development. Kigali is gradually becoming a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, social reform and international trade. Over the coming years I expect further growth and development from the country of a thousand hills.

 

James Rwanda Q13 - Rwanda's StereotypeWritten by:

James Garland
Business Support Associate
Challenges Worldwide ICS
Rwanda 2018

Kwabena Danso - Booomers Bikes
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Our resolutions: ICS team across world pledges

Welcome to 2018. 

Do you have any New Year resolutions?

Maybe you’ve resolved to do something to tackle a global problem like climate change, or something to improve your local community. Whatever your cause, it’s worth remembering you can do a lot in a year.

We asked the ICS team members from around the world how what they were planning. Here are some of our favourites.

1. Ditching disposables

Jamie Baird, Communications Officer, Raleigh International, UK
In 2018, Jamie is pledging to ditch disposables to cut down on plastic waste

Jamie Baird, Communications Officer, Raleigh International, UK

This year, Jamie’s fighting against waste by refusing to use plastic cups. If we carry on as we are currently, by 2050 the ocean will contain more plastic than fish. Last year Kenya introduced the world’s toughest plastic bag ban – with four years in jail or a $40,000 fine.

“My resolution is not to use any disposable cups this year. 2.5 billion coffee cups are thrown away every year, but only 1% of these are believed to be recycled. The plastic lining in coffee cups means many are not easily recyclable, which means they are environmentally unsustainable, contributing to our global plastic problem and in turn climate change. If a coffee shop won’t fill my reusable cup, then I don’t want their coffee!”

2. Supporting sustainable development through games

Kenechukwu Ogbuagu, ICS Project Officer, VSO, Nigeria
KC is using the power of board games to get young people into the SDGs

Kenechukwu Ogbuagu, ICS Project Officer, VSO, Nigeria

KC has been running his own board game business for a while now. But after recently taking a game to the African Board Game Convention, he’s ready to merge his personal life and his work with VSO ICS – by introducing a board game about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“We all want a world where there is no hunger and poverty. We all want peace and stability and unity. The SDGs are there to achieve that goal. But first, we need to know what they are. This year I want to get young people interested in development and the SDGs by making my own board games to get them talking about them in a fun way!”

3. Supporting 100 new young businesses

Samuel Opoku, ICS Programme Co-ordinator, Challenges Worldwide, Ghana
As part of Sammy’s role at Challenges Worldwide, he’ll be recruiting 100 new SMEs

Samuel Opoku, ICS Programme Co-ordinator, Challenges Worldwide, Ghana

As part of Sammy’s role with Challenges Worldwide ICS in Ghana, he’s responsible for recruiting new entrepreneurs to their 12 week business development programme. In 2018 he’ll be signing up 100 new businesses to receive support from ICS volunteers from the UK and Ghana.

“This year I’m aiming to engage and contribute towards the growth of 100 small to medium sizes enterprises here in Ghana through Challenges Worldwide ICS.”

Read full article, written by Jack Howson, in the International Citizen Service website.

Markets selling various indigenous fruits and snacks in Zambia streets
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A Journey through traditional Zambian food

How much do you know about traditional Zambian food? Well, this is your opportunity to learn. But, warning! This post will make your mouth water and want to take the first plane ticket to Zambia, just to experience the taste of these different and tasty platters.

Let’s start simple, with this popular roadside snack: Maize, cooked in their husks over a small coal barbecue.

Fulfilling midday whims

Below you can see the delicious Chikanda, dubbed ‘Zambian sausage’, which is made from the tubers of the orchid plant. Eaten typically as a side with nshima or simply in a mix of diced onion and fresh chilli.

The ‘Zambian sausage,’ better known as Chikanda

Nshima is the undisputed king of Zambian staples. A thick dough typically made from compounded maize meal, nshima can be found on the side of almost every meal. Experienced users have learnt to master the rolling technique, moulding it into a tight ball for scooping up delicious sauces. Also, stewed pumpkin leaves, locally known as Chibwabwa, are a popular Zambian side dish high in iron and vitamin A.

About to eat some Nshima

Delicious stewed pumpkin leaves

Bellow is a picture of the tilapia, the local freshwater fish of Zambia, served here boiled in a tomato and pepper stew at a dusty lunch spot in Chongwe, on the outskirts of Lusaka. As is the norm at Zambian mealtimes, the main meat or fish plate is eaten with mounds of nshima and a selection of vegetable sides; clockwise from top – ifishashi (a paste of greens and groundnuts), kalembulu, (dried pumpkin leaves), rape (the leafy green that is commonly cultivated to produce rapeseed oil) and chibwabwa.

Tilapia with some nshima and stewed pumpkin leaves

More tilapia! But here it is fried over a charcoal barbecue at a traditional matebeto lunch market at Longacres, Lusaka. 

Fried tilapia during a matebeto

In Zambian wedding tradition, matebeto is a ceremonial meal prepared by the women in the family of the bride-to-be showcasing the food from the culture of their tribe for friends, family and guests of the groom. Markets bearing the name of this ceremony are popular lunch spots for locals in Lusaka, with the range of delicious barbecued meat and fish on offer reason enough for celebration.

Women from bride’s family cooking the matebeto

While chicken and fish are popular choices at these bustling cookouts, it’s the beef that steals the show. Zambian beef is famous in Africa and the juicy T-bone steaks served up here explain why.

T-bone steak being prepared during the <em>matebeto</em> Credit Jack Miller
T-bone steak being prepared during the matebeto

For the bargain price of 35 Kwacha (equivalent to £3) a platter of T-bone steak can be bought for the table to share as a group.

Preparing the delicious and famous T-bones

T-bones to share Credit Jack Miller
T-bones to share

The meat is accompanied by as much nshima as is needed and a selection of side dishes (including fresh chillis, ifishashi, rape, okra, chibwabwa, beans and impwa – a smaller, yellow aubergine variety that grows wild in Zambia).

A feast that you cannot miss Credit Jack Miller
A feast that you cannot miss

Family gatherings are also often accompanied by a barbecue, or braai. Here the Bandas show off their grilling skills on a rack of marinated beef ribs.

The Bandas during their delicious family barbecue. Photo credit: Jack Miller
The Bandas during their delicious family barbecue

If you’re lucky, and quick enough, leftovers from the braai can be stored away for an enviable packed lunch. Be warned however, three rounds of nshima at lunchtime can be a potent sleeping pill, as Mukela knows only too well.

Braai leftovers for lunch

Mukela taking his well-diserved nap

All words and photos Jack Miller, Business Support Associate in Lusaka

 

Kumasi Team 2017
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Mid-Placement Review: Kumasi, Ghana

Here in Kumasi, it is hard to believe that we are already over halfway through the cycle! A cycle referring to the 10 week placement our volunteers have embarked on with Challenges Worldwide, a charity committed to helping Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) through consultancy intervention. The purpose of this is to promote growth of the businesses by matching volunteers to prospective enterprises to work closely with them and provide suggestions and solutions to problems that will help promote success. The fundamental goal being to nurture and empower Ghana’s SME’s which are commonplace, particularly in cities such as Kumasi and Accra where many entrepreneurs reside. Therefore SMEs play a substantial role in influencing employment, income and economic growth throughout the country.

The structure of the volunteer programme is roughly one week of in country training, four weeks of enterprise analysis, four weeks of implementation, and finally one week of reflection and debrief. This is no small feat and reaching the halfway point in the programme provides an opportunity for reflection, identifying areas for improvement and preparing for the most challenging stage yet, implementation of recommendations! What better way to spend this important time together than heading to Cape Coast, for the official mid-placement review (MPR) for team Kumasi.

FRIDAY 4TH AUGUST

We left Kumasi by coach to begin our journey, many were in high spirits playing music and singing! We arrived at the scenic location of Hans Cottage Botel where we would reside for the next two nights. The perks of which included a lake with crocodiles, fishes and tadpoles, which would sometimes make an appearance! After settling at the botel we continued to Cape Coast castle. We were given a tour of the castle and its dungeons, thus the cramped, dark, dank, unsanitary conditions in which people were unmercifully stored as ‘human cargo’ awaiting an uncertain future to the ‘new world’ as slaves. The conditions were not at the best, unfathomable and it is hard to believe such atrocities were capable of human beings. In contrary to the unimaginable suffering and profound cruelty, the surrounding scenery of the castle was utterly breathtaking. Cape Coast most certainly is not lacking in beauty, with the salty sea air, golden sand and palm tree rich beach, the scenery was a feast for the eyes and a dream come true for the keen photographer!

Surroundings of the Cape Coast Castle

Cape Coast Castle

After an educational afternoon we went for a lovely dinner. The volunteers had organised games and a BBQ for later in the evening. We played ‘Mr & Mrs’ in counterpart pairs, where each would be asked a series of questions testing their knowledge on how well they had gotten to know each other for the past five weeks. Let’s just say some succeeded more than others which was very entertaining. Accompanied with charades, music and dancing it was a fun evening spent chatting into the early hours of the morning.

SATURDAY 5TH AUGUST

The following day we woke for breakfast before we began our team activity. For MPR it is important to reflect on the successes and achievements experienced so far, what could be improved and what is left to achieve during the volunteers’ remaining time on the placement.

Firstly we all shared common issues, came up with feedback and possible solutions to these. This raised interesting discussions between the group and an open platform where everyone could express their thoughts. Secondly we discussed host home issues, challenges people faced, how they overcame these or what solutions could be adopted. This activity allowed the volunteers to see the parallels between them and how others approached situations to resolve them. Finally we focused on individual development. What had people learnt on the programme so far? What do they want to work and focus on during their remaining time? It was a constructive session which provided the opportunity to identify what there is left to achieve whilst also reminding volunteers why they chose to be a part of Challenges Worldwide.

On the canopy walkway in Kakum National Park

After our productive session in the morning we set off for Kakum National Park. The park allows you to walk amongst the trees on a canopy walkway suspended at 30 metres and it did not disappoint. After a steep trek towards the walkway, we were greeted by views that were absolutely sensational, everyone was in awe of the natural beauty. Kakum provides plenty of opportunity for model photo shoots, taking selfies and scenic shots. Some were more willing than others to walk at such a height, it’s certainly not for the faint hearted if you prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground! After taking what must have been hundreds of pictures we left for dinner, followed by an evening winding down back at the botel. We enjoyed a cultural combination of dancing to African music accompanied with a BBQ once again, British style! Everyone was able to relax and enjoy the last evening of MPR together, playing games and engaging in conversation once again late into the night.

SUNDAY 6TH AUGUST

We set off around noon and headed back to Kumasi. After a jam packed, enjoyable and reflective weekend, everyone is refreshed and elated for the rest of the placement. We have volunteers looking forward to the future, putting into practice the implementations their enterprise analysis has drawn them to.

Team Kumasi Summer 2017 is ready to smash it!

 

Challenges Worldwide speaking on UBC radio
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Representing Challenges on UBC Radio

Making one’s way by public taxi through Kampala’s packed streets is always interesting, but this time we were doing so with particular excitement. Our destination was the radio studios of UBC, Uganda’s national broadcaster, and our mission was to represent Challenges Worldwide live on air, to an audience of hundreds of thousands. UBC Radio reaches as far as South Sudan and Kenya.

Sharon, Lynna, Nicola and Jacob outside of the UBC studios in Kampala
Sharon, Lynna, Nicola and Jacob outside of the UBC studios in Kampala

After a quick group photo outside the compound, we made our way inside. It was clear our appointment was an important one when we were ushered quickly through security on mentioning the producer’s name.  Prossy the radio presenter was warm and friendly as she ushered us into the recording studio and explained the procedure, but nerves were running high as we waited through jingles and advertisements for the microphone in front of us to buzz into life. Sharon, a former Team Leader, our Country Programme Manager Nicola, and current volunteers Lynna and myself sat at the desk and poured over our notes as we prepared our best professional voices.

The interview focused mainly on the ins and outs of the Challenges Worldwide’ programme in Uganda, with a particular emphasis on how local people can get involved.  This was the topic most addressed in UBC listeners’ questions, which we watched ping in on social media between our turns to speak, but we also discussed our personal interpretations of the programme and, in my case, the experience of a muzungu (the local term for foreigner) living in Uganda.

We were also quizzed on our motivations, and whether I had signed up out of sincere belief in the importance of international development or simply to experience the beauty of the “Pearl of Africa” (in truth, a bit of both!)

Nicola was calm and collected as she expertly explained the details of our programme, and in the end her several pages of notes proved unnecessary, it takes far longer to cover the content than she had nervously imagined. Prossy turned her attention to the volunteers next, and we were able to discuss the help Challenges Worldwide gives to young people who need to develop skills and experience, and the impact we can see our work has on the local community. We were also quizzed on our motivations, and whether I had signed up out of sincere belief in the importance of international development or simply to experience the beauty of the “Pearl of Africa” (in truth, a bit of both!)

It proved a good opportunity to reflect on the differences between the two countries’ cultures, such as the tendency in the UK to work to the clock in contrast to more flexible lifestyles in Uganda, and the famous British reserve and politeness.  Both ways of life have their disadvantages, as anyone who has almost been run off the pavement by one of Kampala’s ubiquitous motorbike-taxis (boda-bodas) will attest, but the more relaxed Ugandan lifestyle is good for the soul.

In the end, the hour passed by in a flash, and we found ourselves being thanked by Prossy outside the UBC studio and then shown to the door.  Hopefully, our listeners found the experience as thought-provoking as we did, and at least one person is inspired to take up the challenge of global development as a result!

Written by Jacob Williams, Team Kampala

Listen and learn with podcasts
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Maximise Your Skills: Podcasts

Are you more of an interactive learner? Not the biggest bookworm, or trying to cut down your screen time? A podcast may be for you! Perfect for on-the-go learners, podcasts are a free, quick, and easy way to give your brain a good workout.

Podcasts were never the most popular form of media. An improved interface, celebrity involvement, and programmes like Serial inspiring cult followings, however, have rocketed them into the mainstream. While listening for leisure is a great option, podcasts are also great for learning new information or skills. If you’re looking to be inspired, informed, or just want to see what the fuss is about, here are a few of our favourites.

Back to Business

Raise Your Awareness

Keep Curious

Over to You

Passionate about podcasts? Did we miss out any great ones? Let us in on the secret!

Tell us about your favourite podcasts on the Facebook alumni group

Whether you’re looking to learn new skills to help you in the workplace, want to challenge yourself to be more socially aware, or are simply a curious soul, podcasts have a lot to offer. Even better, episodes range from under 30 minutes to over 2 hours. So, no matter your schedule, there’ll be a podcast to fill it. Have a listen on your lunch break, distract yourself during that workout, or zone out on your commute. Happy listening!

Want more content like this? Check out the ‘Skills’ category for more!

Learn to Code, take online courses, pursue a CMI qualification, explore YouTube
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Maximise Your Skills: Evidence with eLearning

Whether you’re looking for a job, beginning your career, or are fully stuck in, make sure your professional development is a priority. Lifelong learning is more than just a catchphrase: it’s an attitude shared by the most successful people in the world.

One of the beauties of the Internet is the availability of expert advice at your fingertips. With a wealth of opportunities to grow and evidence your skills base, improving your employability has never been easier. Here are a few of our favourite opportunities!

1. Learn to Code

…But not for the reason you think. Learning to code is not an easy fix. It is not a magical solution to unemployment and debt. As always, reality is more complex and a dose of scepticism is healthy! Don’t learn to code because it will land you a job as a developer (unless you seriously invest in it, it won’t). Instead, learn to code to understand the basics and improve your digital literacy.

Most companies have some type of digital presence. The more you understand how they work, the more effective you’ll be on them. You’ll be able to fix or prevent minor technical issues because you’ll see why they’re happening. You’ll have a better grasp on product development because you’ll know what goes into it. If you’re an entrepreneur, getting to grips with the code can help you build your site exactly the way you envision it. The great news is that there are a tonne of platforms out there to help you do it:

2. Take Your Pick

Consider taking an online course with a reputable provider. It’s a great way to keep learning, stand out in your field, and earn certifications. Taking your professional development into your own hands requires a lot of motivation, but shows you have the discipline and drive to succeed.

With so many different sites, there’s a course out there for everyone. You could choose to learn something totally new or to deepen your current understanding of a subject – and levels range from broad overviews to ‘MicroMasters’.

  • MIT Open Courseware is one of the most well known for technical subjects. Their Entrepreneurship courses come particularly recommended!
  • Owned by the Open University, FutureLearn offers a huge variety of courses through partner universities and specialist organisations
  • EdX is a well-respected platform, with their MicroMasters recognised by industry leaders

3. Build On What You Have

You’ve been trained in it on your placement. You have the experience you need to pass it. You’ve trusted Challenges with your professional development for those three months – and you know we do everything we can to support your learning. It would be wrong to miss CMI qualifications off this list! Make the most of the work you’ve already done by converting your training to a qualification.

As you know, Challenges offers Level 5 CMI qualifications in Professional Consulting. In response to your feedback, we’ve also introduced Management and Leadership! M&L is targeted at Team Leaders, who will all receive training from now on – but can be done by anyone ambitious, entrepreneurial, or innovative. Want to prove you’re a natural born leader? Looking to learn how to manage others efficiently and effectively? A CMI qualification with Challenges can help you grow and prove that skill.

For more information, email cmi@challengesworldwide.com

4. Explore YouTube

YouTube is actually the world’s second largest search engine. It’s not far behind Google, and definitely not one to underestimate! It’s a rogue one on our list because it does not offer qualifications, but we couldn’t leave it out.

Not just a platform for beauty tutorials and mildly distasteful pranks, YouTube is full of videos on practically every topic imaginable. From TED talks to entrepreneurial workshops, ‘life hacks’ to motivational messages, YouTube is an incredible resource on a vast range of topics. It’s free, accessible, and the content comes in easily digestible bites! So why not procrastinate productively next time you’re browsing?

Want more content like this? Check out the ‘Skills’ tag for more!

Maximise Your Skills: Improve Your LinkedIn Profile Strength
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Maximise Your Skills: Improve Your LinkedIn Profile Strength

Your LinkedIn profile is one of the first things an employer, employee, recruiter or potential contact is going to see if they search for you online. The world’s largest business-to-business network is the number one platform for relationship management and networking – and is only growing in members and connections.

As recruiters’ first stop for professional ‘speed dating’, making your profile your professional wingman is well worth the effort. With LinkedIn recently relaunching the look of their site, even All Star members could do with spending some quality time with their profile. Here you’ll find our top tips for keeping your profile relevant, engaging, and actionable.

Getting to Know You

Think of your LinkedIn as an interactive CV. Unlike a traditional résumé, your LinkedIn profile is live and can be found by anyone with an Internet connection. That means a lot of opportunities for growing your network. To encourage those connections, make the most of the range of profile sections LinkedIn offers:

  • Your Summary is often the first thing people read, and should always be in the first person. Use bullet points to break up your writing into more manageable chunks, but take advantage of all 2000 spaces LinkedIn gives you. The first two lines – the ones visible while the full Summary is closed – should make clear what you do, who you do it for, and why it’s beneficial
  • Headlines are crucial. Many people come to LinkedIn profiles through Google. Including key words people might search for – such as your industry, company, and job title – can push your name towards the top
  • Your Current Experience is just as important! Make sure you put in all of your most relevant, recent, and transferrable positions. Again, use all of the space available to shout about your success
  • For your Challenges’ placement, your job title was ‘Business Support Associate (Voluntary)’, or ‘Business Support Associate Team Leader (Voluntary)’. Make sure you are accurate, as all employers ask us to confirm your dates and job title in any reference we provide
  • Be approachable and friendly – but, above all, keep it professional. You should always have a recent photograph of yourself in your profile, but no selfies, group shots, or unprofessional contexts
  • Flesh out your profile. Your ‘Skills’ section should be full; your Education and Qualifications detailed; and any awards, publications, or linguistic talents advertised
  • Make sure people know how to contact you! Be wary of providing too much personal data, but at least an active email address should be easily available

Spring Clean Your LinkedIn Profile

Spring Clean Your LinkedIn Profile

Keeping this information up to date is vital. You should regularly schedule a ‘spring clean’ of your profile. This is particularly crucial if you have just started a job, are looking for new one, or have taken on more responsibility in your present role. Somebody reading your profile should have a good sense of what you’re up to professionally at that moment.

This may sound like a chore, but ensuring your profile – particularly the Summary and Current Experience sections –  are kept accurate can be the difference between making a connection and missing an opportunity. Try:

  • Scheduling time to update your profile into your diary. Just 30 minutes a month could be all you need! Why not take a moment during your next lunch break?
  • Taking inspiration from your colleagues or friends who do similar work. Don’t be afraid to borrow bits that make sense for you
  • Directly linking to any media you may produce for an even easier way to publicise your work. Written a blog for the Challenges Worldwide website, for example? Share a link to it in your Publications section!

Follow Up

There is little point to putting in all of this effort if you then fail to follow through on the connections you make! Ultimately, who you know – in this case, who is in your network – matters. Make sure you:

  • Connect with your colleagues, friends and extended network! You never know who might get up to something interesting. Get started by becoming a member of our Alumni LinkedIn group
  • Ask for recommendations from your employers. This is the best way for somebody to trust that you are as good as you say you are
  • Engage with people’s profiles. Like their updates, read their articles, and keep on top of what’s going on in your network
  • Make conversation with the people who add you. It’s perfectly acceptable on LinkedIn to connect with people you don’t know personally. Do accept these requests; it’s a great excuse to meet new people!

Want more content like this? Check out the ‘Maximising Your Skills’ tag for more!

Volunteer profiles Kigali Spring 2017
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Meet the Team: Kigali, Spring 2017

Welcome to our new cohort of Challenges Worldwide International Citizen Service volunteers, or more formally our new team of “Business Support Associates“.  Over the following 3 months, they will be learning Professional Consulting with Challenges Worldwide and using their new skillset to give support to SMEs across Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda as part of the Challenges Worldwide ICS programme.

Let’s take a few minutes to meet team Kigali:

Tom Huggon – Country Programme Manager

What are your passions or aspirations?

I’m passionate about building bridges across cultures, working with people and helping them grow. I love being able to manage projects so one day I hope to set up my own organisation focused on economic empowerment.

Armel Mugenzi  – Programme coordinator

Aspirations:

Personally – Live a life where I am able to travel the world and experience different people and cultures.

Professionally – Consulting is a field of work where I want to earn great reputation and expertise while helping companies break boundaries across the EAC (East Africa Community) region. I would like to end my career with a Training & Development firm to help young unemployed Rwandans in the future.

Hamish the Dog – Challenges Worldwide Rwanda mascot

Passions: Long walks, flying, playing fetch, Inspiring humans + animals

Aspirations: To be Country Programme Manager for Challenges Rwanda (steal Toms job)

Fun Fact: When my master walks me he is much more likely to get a date (good luck Tom)

Irene Duhuzukuri – Team leader

What are your passions or aspirations?

Being Born in a rural area where there is no electricity and no water. Having a look at how my family and neighbours are struggling a lot get food and school materials for us.  It makes me think bigger to see if could do anything to change my family’s standard of living and for my community too. That’s why  From a young age, I committed to creating a good change in my community by using my skills, sharing ideas and culture with different peoples to know how they do their things.  I’m dreaming about putting in place a community-based organisation for Hygiene sanitation and environmental management.  I ’m passionate about making Rwanda a better place by putting it to the level of intermediate income countries using our skills and resources and make it an environ socio-economically stable one.my hobbies are Music and watching Movie.

Samantha Russell-Stracey – Team leader

 

Age: 26

What are your passions or aspirations?

I love everything outdoors, whether that be walking, riding, cycling or just lying in a hammock with a good book. If the sun is shining and I’m outside am happy.

Random Fact: I once shared a croissant with Kevin Spacey.

Kayitesi Nyombayire Sandra

Enterprise: Data Systems

What are your passions or aspirations?

Bringing a better change to the society, helping those in needs and also philosophy is my passion I love sharing Ideas.

Fun Fact: I’m afraid of small insects.

Myetchae Thu

Enterprise: Data Systems

What are your passions or aspirations?

I love having great conversations with great people, going on hiking trips in the English countryside, eating all types of food that come my way and bargain hunting. Above all, my biggest passion has got to be making an impact towards social justice and equity. My experience of growing up in Myanmar have sustained my passion for helping disadvantaged communities gain access to the resources and support they need to meet their basic and other important needs. I’m really grateful that, through economic empowerment, my ICS placement with challenges worldwide is helping me to realise my passion by bringing a lasting positive impact on disadvantaged communities.

Fun Fact: Going back in time to the 1800s, my great great grandfather was the King of Myanmar.

Maya Stephenson

Enterprise: security world technology

What are your passions or aspirations?

I love meeting people with big hearts. I aspire to own many businesses and help build strong economies in low-income communities.

Fun Fact: Peacocks can fly

Vicky Nakure

What are your passions or aspirations?

I am passionate about helping others, I always felt responsible for people that were around me.I don’t like to see people suffering and also doing what there are not capable .this passion brought me great satisfaction because I felt that my help is really useful and that those people really need me. Through the help of other people, I understood that could make my own contribution to the improvement of the life of those who are really in need.

Emmy Kangwege

Age: 21

Enterprise: Seedco

What are your passions or aspirations?

To have my own business and engage, in helping the society and providing consultancy as well.

Stephen Gray

Enterprise: Seedco

What are your passions or aspirations?

I’m passionate about making a difference in the world, experiencing new cultures and people and photography.

Sanjeev Delip Kumar

Enterprise: Rwandan Farmers Coffee Company

What are your passions or aspirations?

To travel, discover new cultures, to see how people live in other parts of the world and to do my part in helping the world sustainably develop.

Fun Fact: I speak 5 languages

Robert Mugisha

Enterprise: Rwanda Farmers Coffee Company

What are your passions or aspirations?

I’m a tech guy by nature and I’m most passionate about travelling, meeting new people and learning new cultures. I am a leader in most things I’m Involved in. I’ve always wanted to be my own boss which I am and I lead two tech companies and I still want more.

Fun Fact: I can Speak 4 languages. I play basketball and Volleyball.

Kenneth Nabimaya

Enterprise: SafeMotos

What are your passions or aspirations?

As a growing professional tour guide and travel agent, my passion is conserving and preserving the environment and retain cultural history. I enjoy living in neighbouring countries Uganda/Rwanda.

Bruce Morrice

Age: 24

Enterprise: SafeMotos

What are your passions or aspirations?

Passions – Travelling, Learning (every day is school day) and Football.

Aspirations – Enjoy life – Fill it with experiences, rather than things.

Fun Fact – I have been to 7 African countries in the last 6 months.

Patrick Muvunvi

Enterprise: Green Harvest products ltd

What are your passions or aspirations?

I’m passionate about learning anything new which can be productive or interesting. I like reading the bible, different books of economics and business and news. I like sports football & basketball

Fun Fact: I drink too much water whenever I get stressed.

James Powell

Enterprise: Green Harvest products Ltd

What are your passions or aspirations?

I’m passionate about travelling, experiencing different cultures and learning to broaden my horizons.

Fun Fact: I have Been Known as ChunkyFunky in the past.

Emmanuel Kwizera

Age: 23

Enterprise: Kigali Farms

What are your passions or aspirations?

I am passionate about leadership because I have realised that things can rise or fall because of the influence of leaders. I know that leaders are meant to serve people and guide them to move forward.

Fun Fact: I can speak 5 languages.

Caitlin Reid

Age: 22

Enterprise: Kigali Farms

What are your passions or aspirations?

I am Passionate about making a lasting difference in developing economies. Through social impact, and hopefully, one day being able to live in an African country and work in this sector.

Fun Fact: I have done competitive cheerleading since I was 2 years old.

Janvier Mugisha

Enterprise: Farm Fresh

What are your passions or aspirations?

I am passionate about social life and culture. By culture, I like to dance and teach Rwandan cultural dance. Socially, I like to help others as much and collaborate as much as possible.

Fun Fact: Most of my friends call me crazy because of how much I joke.

 

Jordan Norwood

Age: 24

Enterprise: Farm Fresh

What are your passions or aspirations?

I believe that everybody should have equal opportunities

 

Thank you Team Kigali, good luck with your work to support these exciting Kigali based enteprises!

 

Challenges Worldwide ICS Rwanda
The First Challenge Worldwide ICS Rwanda Team Photo March 2017

 

Missing_Middle_Graphic_Challenges_Worldwide
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Missing Middle

Decades after the first women took seats on corporate boards and began occupying corner offices, they remain under-represented in senior-most executive jobs and in boardrooms. The growth of women in senior management roles has stalled so much that female CEOs make headlines when they’re promoted.

Watching Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s TEDx talk: “We should all be feminists”, made me ask questions every person should ask at least one point in time. It sparked a thought trail about why the “Missing Middle” is not filled and still has a big gap. Whilst it is true, compared to past times the overall number of women in the workforce continues to grow, statistics still show that men are two to three times more likely to be in senior management positions than women. It is mind boggling to think that despite there being slightly more women than men in the world, positions of power and prestige continue to be dominated by men.

“the higher you go the fewer women there are”

Wangari Maathai, Kenyan Nobel Laurent Prize winner, once said: “the higher you go the fewer women there are”. Things should not be harder and different for women. As Chimamanda states, in past times we lived in a world in which physical strength was the most important attribute for survival. Things are very different now. Today we live in a different world, a world that has evolved.  Intelligence, creativity and innovation are cardinal attributes for success and people with such qualities should be the ones leading us, regardless of whether they are male or female.

The missing middle

 

Despite such disproportionate representations and setbacks highlighted earlier by several measures, women are succeeding in business. As the human race, we have the ability to make and remake ourselves, constructing a plan for a better world. The intention behind the International Women’s Day (IWD) “Missing Middle” campaign from the Chartered Management Institute is to throw light on the shortage of women in management positions and actively set about addressing that imbalance.  Modern women are becoming aware that career success is not about adjusting to the male-dominated status quo. It’s about changing that status quo by embracing what makes our diverse perspectives unique and overcoming

Leaping the missing middle

“the empowered woman is powerful beyond measure and beautiful beyond description”

It is vital to note, fear is consistently one of the biggest challenges women face in the workplace. These fears, whether about being taken seriously, being inadequate or balancing work and family, often lead to a lack of confidence. However, having confidence and embracing being a woman, rather than apologising for being a woman is what will help women rise to the next level and climb the corporate ladder.  After all, “the empowered woman is powerful beyond measure and beautiful beyond description” Steve Maraboli.

Written by Team Kitwe in response to the Chartered Management Institutes “Missing Middle” campaign for IWD 2017. 

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