Photo Exhibition and Panel Discussion Spotlight Teen Mothers’ Dreams and Rights in Rwanda

Kigali, Rwanda — May 28, 2025 — In observance of the International Day of Action for Women’s Health and the Month of Photography, acclaimed photographer Serrah Galos, in partnership with RWAMREC (Rwanda Men’s Resource Centre), hosted a powerful event at Institut Français du Rwanda titled “Lost Dreams and New Dreams.”

The event showcased a compelling photo exhibition featuring 15 striking portraits and testimonials from teen mothers in Gatsibo District, illustrating their resilience, aspirations, and the realities they face. These young women participated in the Tinyuka! (Ose!) project, an innovative gender equality initiative supported by the French Embassy aimed at empowering teen mothers and engaging their families, especially fathers, in conversations around rights, care, and second chances.

The evening included an immersive audiovisual experience, voicing the stories of teen mothers themselves, followed by a panel discussion with civil society leaders, diplomats, and stakeholders passionate about gender equality and adolescent health. To ensure privacy and safety, photography was not permitted during the event.

The exhibition sought to raise awareness about the barriers teen mothers encounter in accessing education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, emphasizing the collective power of families and communities to support their dreams.

Serrah Galos emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “These young women are more than statistics—they’re emerging artists, entrepreneurs, and future leaders. We must listen and walk alongside them.”

About Tinyuka! (Ose!) Project
Daring to challenge gender stereotypes, Tinyuka! promotes dialogue and peer learning to support teen mothers and their families, focusing on gender equality and preventing gender-based violence. It emphasizes care, education, and accountability, aiming to prevent stigmatization and isolation of teen mothers.

Fidele Rutayisire, RWAMREC’s Executive Director (Middle), Director of the French institute (Left) and acclaimed photographer Serrah Galos

Fidele Rutayisire, RWAMREC’s Executive Director, highlighted the importance of engaging men in redefining masculinity, noting, “Men are often the primary perpetrators of violence, but they are also capable of love and care. We work to prevent teen pregnancies and violence by involving boys and men in these crucial conversations.”

About RWAMREC
Founded in 2006, RWAMREC promotes gender equality, positive masculinity, and the prevention of gender-based violence across Rwanda. The organization works with men, women, and youth to create safer and more equitable communities. This event aligns with their ongoing efforts to support adolescent girls’ health and rights and foster gender-transformative approaches.