From Trauma to Triumph: Healing Stories from Community Graduations
Over the past few months, 6,799 participants from Kamonyi, Kirehe, and Gasabo Districts in Rwanda have completed the Ubuntu community-based social healing program. These graduations marked more than the close of 15 weeks of healing circles—they celebrated renewed resilience, family reconciliation, and the weaving of stronger community bonds. Many graduates continue their journeys in self-help groups, sustaining healing through lending circles, income-generating projects, and solidarity initiatives.
Stories of Transformation
“I was a closed person, unable to speak to anyone,” recalls Nyirabahire, a genocide survivor who had carried deep pain for decades. “At first, it was hard to open up, but the Breath-Body-Mind exercises helped me release the shame. I now live with hope and strength.”
Community Healing Assistants leading BBM exercises.
John, a former prisoner, found forgiveness and reconciliation: “Sharing my story through the Tree of Life released my shame. Breathing exercises softened my chest, and I was able to apologize to my wife and children. I now live with peace and hope.”
For Bigiruwenda, the program transformed his family: “I had lost my home and lived in conflict with my wife for eight years. The program helped me reflect and take responsibility. Today, my family is thriving—and I am helping others in my community do the same.”
Madelaine, once trapped by poverty and illness, found new dignity: “I realized I was not alone. Sharing lifted a weight from my shoulders. I healed physically and emotionally. I can work, speak freely, and even pay health insurance for my family.”
As one participant expressed simply: “I feel human again.”
Students doing BBM exercises at school.
A Movement of Healing
Each graduation is not an ending but a ripple of transformation—where trauma gives way to hope, families reconcile, neighbors reconnect, and communities grow stronger together.