When Fidele Tuyishime founded GURD-Rwanda, his vision was clear: to create a safe and empowering space where girls could reclaim their right to education, health, and self-determination. Through grassroots engagement and community outreach, GURD sought to strengthen girls’ Agency — their ability to believe in themselves, make informed decisions, lead, and influence their environment.
However, the organization quickly faced obstacles that hindered its growth. Limited financial resources and organizational capacity made it difficult for GURD to design impactful programs, raise funds, and establish a strong strategic direction. The potential was there but the pathway was uncertain.
That’s when AMPLIFY Girls stepped in. Through a combination of virtual coaching sessions, in-person capacity-building workshops, and peer support platforms, AMPLIFY Girls provided the much-needed mentorship and technical guidance that helped GURD redefine its approach. Together, they co-developed an integrated Life Skills and SRHR Curriculum, tailored specifically for rural adolescent girls.
This curriculum now reaches schools across Nyamasheke District, delivered by trained volunteers who create safe spaces for girls to grow in knowledge, confidence, and voice. The results are transformative and measurable through the lens of Girls’ Agency:
- Self-Beliefs
- Environmental Beliefs
- Self-Governance Skills
- Leadership Skills
Girls trained under the program are now leading peer discussions, helping others navigate challenges, and voicing their opinions at school and community forums. GURD has helped nurture emerging girl leaders who act as change agents in their communities — challenging harmful norms and advocating for gender equality.
AMPLIFY Girls didn’t just help girls — they empowered the organization itself. Founder Fidele Tuyishime gained critical skills in fundraising, strategic planning, and presentation, allowing him to more effectively tell GURD’s story and attract new partners. With ongoing support from network members like SACCA, Learn Work Develop, and IGI, GURD now implements stronger policies, mobilizes local resources, and connects with national youth and gender platforms.
Through the guidance and generosity of AMPLIFY Girls and the collaborative spirit of its network, GURD-Rwanda has grown from a small community-based initiative to a catalyst for girl-led change. Today, girls across Nyamasheke are not just surviving — they are leading, choosing, influencing, and believing in brighter futures.
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