Patience Uwimana Receives Sewing Machine, Embraces Hope for a Better Future

By Ange de la Victoire DUSABEMUNGU

Rwanda, July 14, 2025 — A wave of joy and gratitude washed over Patience Uwimana yesterday as she received a new sewing machine, fulfilling a heartfelt request made during her recent interview.

The New Rochelle Salesian Missions in the United States generously provided the gift, symbolizing a vital step toward her dream of self-sufficiency.

“I feel truly happy. Words cannot fully express my gratitude to the person who made this possible. May God in heaven reward them abundantly,” Patience shared, her voice trembling with emotion. “I plan to use the sewing machine to help my family and community as well.”

Her story mirrors the struggles faced by many vulnerable youth in Rwanda. Living with her elderly mother and infant child in a dilapidated home that leaks during the rainy season, Patience often wore old, ill-fitting clothes donated by others—clothes that made her feel embarrassed and limited. Yet, she remains hopeful that the skills she is learning can turn her life around.

“One particular challenge I faced was wearing old clothes given by others. Now, I will be able to sew for myself and my family, and I will also sew for others, which will allow me to support myself further,” she explained, her eyes shining with hope.

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For Patience, the immediate goal is to become economically independent. She plans to join a SACCO (Local Savings and Credit Cooperative), where she hopes to save money earned from her tailoring work. “I will set aside half for my family and save the other half to prepare for my child’s future, ensuring he has a better life,” she said confidently.

Patience Uwimana Receives Sewing Machine, Embraces Hope for a Better Future in Rwanda

Her story highlights the resilience of young people striving to overcome socioeconomic hardships. While Rwanda faces high poverty rates, reliance on agriculture, and limited youth employment opportunities, support from organizations like the one backing Patience offers a beacon of hope.

The organization depends on donor contributions to empower young entrepreneurs like Patience, but many still face significant challenges in securing stable livelihoods. Her story underscores the urgent need for continued compassionate support to help young people transform their lives.

As she begins this new chapter, Patience’s journey exemplifies how access to skills and resources can spark hope and create opportunities for a brighter, more resilient future—for herself, her family, and her community.