Imbuto Foundation under its Youth Leadership and Mentorship Program (YLMP) over the weekend trained another group of young people on the use of communication as a tool of professionalism and self-esteem.

The seminar that was held in Kigali is part of the second quarter Youth Empowerment Workshops that started this month. The first of which took place in the Eastern Province on Saturday.

Under the leadership of its patron - Mrs. Jeanette Kagame, the Foundation seeks to enable the youth to utilize interpersonal and written communication as a tool to enhance productivity, conduct negotiations and create team spirit within their professional environments.

While addressing guests at the meeting, the Minister of Youth, Protaise Mitali advised the young professionals to foster a good communication culture that will positively change the country’s poor customer care perception.

"A good communication culture builds a nation while a bad one destroys it. We know that customer care entails communication since it involves exchange of information. Now that Rwanda has a poor customer care policy, it is high time the youth changed it.”

"Become role models with the knowledge you will acquire from here so that through you, other people can alter this perception completely too,” Mitali advised.

The Mayor of Kigali, Dr. Aisa Kirabo Kacyira and Senator, Wellars Gasamagera were the main speakers at the seminar.

Kirabo centered her presentation on "communication as a tool of self esteem,” advising the youth to be principled, honest and citizens of integrity. While Gasamagera identified "communication as a tool of professionalism,” emphasizing that effective communication enhances better performance and service delivery.

The UN Resident Coordinator, Aurélien Agbénonci also advised youth to use what they learn from the seminar. HE reminded the youth that they are the majority, therefore their contribution to the country’s development is critical.

"This conference is important. It teaches you how to convey messages of self dependence, self confidence, build important values and instill a culture of excellence,” Agbénonci said.

"There is no empowerment without effective communication. As the world has become globalised and competitive, this attribute is required for sustainable development.”

According to Radegonde Ndejuru, Imbuto Foundation Director General, the youth program is a platform for promoting sustainable opportunities for future Rwandan leaders. Similar workshops will be carried out in other provinces of the country.

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