GENERATION RISE
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Rwanda
Solange Impanoyimana founded Generation Rise in 2016. A former Global Health Corps fellow, she has over a decade of experience managing community development projects. Originally from western Rwanda, Solange now leads efforts to improve rural education—especially literacy programs for girls. A Generation Rwanda Scholar, she has championed scholarships and leadership training for vulnerable youth and was named one of Conscious Company Magazine’s 17 Rising Entrepreneurs of 2015.
CO-FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Solange Impanoyimana
Generation Rise uses literature as a catalyst for critical thinking and leadership skills for girls and young women in rural Rwanda.
Finding Their Voices
Generation Rise partners with high schools to form cohorts of girls, aged 14 to 20, for the Her Voice Matters (HVM) program. The Student Academy engages participants with trainers and mentors through five core training topics: leadership, reading and goal setting, seizing opportunities, effective communication, and sexual and reproductive health. Over nine months, girls participate in weekly discussions based on assigned readings.
The HVM program includes the Teacher Institute, where volunteer teachers support GR staff and help implement community projects initiated by the girls. A Mentoring Buddy Program offers peer support and connections with women who have similar life experiences.
2019 | Generation Rise was a participant in the Segal Foundation Social Innovation Incubator
Key Programs
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Her Voice Matters
Her Voice Matters empowers girls aged 14 to 20 to discover their voices and translate ideas into action. Over nine months, selected participants engage in weekly facilitated discussions based on assigned readings. The program equips girls with leadership skills and practical toolkits to drive community impact.
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Ignite Program
The Ignite Program empowers Her Voice Matters (HVM) graduates with entrepreneurial skills to initiate and manage businesses or community initiatives addressing local challenges. The goal is for these projects to tackle community issues and serve as sustainable income-generating activities for HVM graduates.
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Be That Girl Scholarship Programme
The Her Voice Matters scholarship program offers financial aid to selected girls, complementing government scholarships. Over the course of their 4-year studies, participants receive tailored mentoring and training to support their academic and personal growth needs.
