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How the Kitchen Assistant Training in Rwanda transforms participants' lives

Sangira - Friends of Rwanda, has launched, in partnership with Global Swiss Learning, the Kitchen Assistant Training and Train-the-Trainer Program in September 2024 in the Nyamasheke district, Rwanda. This initiative provided 52 participants with essential culinary skills, with 48 successfully completing the program and securing internships in the hospitality sector by February 2025.

4/4/2025
@Albert
@Gabriela Schultz
How the Kitchen Assistant Training in Rwanda transforms participants' lives

Impact and success stories

Sangira’s programs have already been transforming the lives of local community members, offering participants opportunities for stable employment and finances. The impact the education and training on these individuals lives is life-changing, to say the least:

"A scholarship from Sangira gave me the chance to train in hospitality. Today, I work as a Food and Beverages Waiter at INN on the Lake Hotel." -Umutoni Salama

"With no clear path, I joined the program and gained culinary skills. Now, I work at Boesujour Hotel in Kigali." -Janvier Masengesho

Irdukunda Dieudone, who previously sold shoes illegally, is now Second Chef at King Faisal Hospital. Keza Mariam, a struggling single mother, secured a receptionist role at Gorilla Nyarutarama, earning a stable income. Yankunda Henriette, now a Food and Beverages Supervisor, started as a barista after her internship.

A graduation ceremony at Sangria. Photo credit: Sangria - Friends of Rwanda

Transforming lives through training

Despite Rwanda's economic progress, over 45% of the population still lives in poverty, and unemployment among youth remains high. The Kitchen Assistant 1 Training equips participants with foundational culinary skills—hygiene, occupational safety, cooking methods, and cutting techniques—enhancing their employability. By early March 2025, all successful participants had secured internships, set to begin in April.

The Train-the-Trainer Program ensures that five local trainers gain the pedagogical expertise needed to deliver structured learning, making the program sustainable. Global Swiss Learning and Sangira continue working closely to ensure all trainers complete their required modules.

GSL culinary students at Sangria during a classroom session. Photo credit: Sangria - Friends of Rwanda

The road ahead

With the success of this first cohort, a new group of participants is being enrolled for the next phase of training. Global Swiss Learning remains committed to supporting Sangira in securing funding and ensuring continued impact. This partnership is a testament to the power of education in creating career pathways and fostering economic independence. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to transform lives through culinary education!

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