Kigali, Rwanda – In a remarkable initiative aimed at addressing trauma and fostering entrepreneurship, GAERG (Groupe des Anciens Etudiants Rescapés du Génocide) in collaboration with AHEZA Healing & Career Center joined forces with Mercer University to organize a comprehensive two-week training program. The training, centered around the theme of “Mental Health and Entrepreneurship,” sought to equip GAERG members with essential skills while combating unemployment through job creation. Held from 22nd May to 2nd June 2023, the program was conducted at the prestigious Centre Saint Paul in Kigali, Rwanda.

Attendees graduation day

The primary objective of this groundbreaking initiative was twofold: to provide GAERG members with the tools and knowledge to overcome trauma resulting from the Genocide against the Tutsi in 1994, and to empower them with entrepreneurship skills that would enable them to establish successful businesses and create employment opportunities.
Experts from Mercer University, renowned for their expertise in mental health and entrepreneurship, were enlisted to lead the training sessions. Through a carefully designed curriculum, participants were exposed to a wide range of topics and practical exercises that blended psychological healing and business acumen.
The mental health component of the training aimed to address the deep-seated trauma experienced by GAERG members, who are survivors of the devastating Genocide against the Tutsi in 1994. Mercer University’s experts provided counseling and therapeutic techniques to help participants navigate the psychological challenges resulting from their traumatic experiences. By fostering resilience, self-care, and coping mechanisms, the training sought to lay the foundation for emotional well-being among the attendees.

Fideli Nsengiyaremye Executive secretary of GAERG

Nsengiyaremye Fideli explaining and give more information about the objective of this training through this conversation he said

“The primary objective of this groundbreaking initiative was twofold: to provide GAERG members with the tools and knowledge to overcome trauma resulting from the Genocide against the Tutsi in 1994, and to empower them with entrepreneurship skills that would enable them to establish successful businesses and create employment opportunities.
Experts from Mercer University, renowned for their expertise in mental health and entrepreneurship, were enlisted to lead the training sessions. Through a carefully designed curriculum, participants were exposed to a wide range of topics and practical exercises that blended psychological healing and business acumen.
The mental health component of the training aimed to address the deep-seated trauma experienced by GAERG members, who are survivors of the devastating Genocide against the Tutsi in 1994. Mercer University’s experts provided counseling and therapeutic techniques to help participants navigate the psychological challenges resulting from their traumatic experiences. By fostering resilience, self-care, and coping mechanisms, the training sought to lay the foundation for emotional well-being among the attendees”.

Professor David lene in Merce university

He said that “As the two-week training program draws to a close, the organizers express their optimism for the future of GAERG members. Armed with newfound knowledge, skills, and renewed hope, these individuals are now better equipped to overcome the obstacles they face and emerge as resilient entrepreneurs and leaders within their communities and they are now able to train others across the country”.

The collaboration between GAERG, AHEZA Healing & Career Center, and Mercer University showcases the power of partnerships in creating transformative opportunities for individuals affected by traumatic events. By addressing mental health challenges and promoting entrepreneurship, this initiative strives to break the cycle of unemployment and offer a sustainable path towards economic empowerment and social integration.

Benitha Trainee GAERG member

Benitha in her speeches was mentioned how this training was helping them because before they were depressed, but now they are strong. The impact of this initiative is expected to extend beyond the training period, as participants apply their newfound skills to create businesses that will not only provide for their own livelihoods but also generate employment opportunities for others. It is through such collective efforts that the cycle of trauma and unemployment can be broken, paving the way for a brighter future for all.

In conclusion, the partnership between GAERG, AHEZA Healing & Career Center, and Mercer University signifies a powerful step towards healing, empowerment, and economic independence for genocide survivors. By addressing mental health issues and nurturing entrepreneurship, this training program has set the stage for a hopeful and prosperous future for GAERG members and the society in general

For more photos of the event click here