In Gasabo District, Ndera sector, a group of about 40 teen mothers gathered in Cyaruzinge cell to participate in a mentorship session organized by Destiny Helpers, a non-governmental organisation. The nonprofit organized the activity on December 6 as part of its contribution to eradicating stigma, fostering education, and enhancing socio-economic opportunities for young mothers. ALSO READ: What will it take for Rwanda to rein in the teenage pregnancy menace? The session, held under the theme “Mothers of Tomorrow Support Campaign,” sought to offer support to these mothers by addressing emotional issues and equipping them with tools that help them lead healthier lives. The discussions emphasized the importance of managing emotions to prevent the transfer of trauma and pain onto their children. Participants were urged to embrace their roles as the architects of their children's futures. Lillian Abatoni, a volunteer with Destiny Helpers, shared tips to the young mother on emotional intelligence. “Emotions are central to our lives. When they are nurtured, they uplift us, but when broken, they can hinder our progress,” Abotoni said. “Teenagers might become parents prematurely, and that makes them carry emotional wounds that can manifest as shame or hopelessness.” “By bringing awareness to these emotions, we hope to equip them with the ability to make better decisions for themselves and their children,” Abatoni said. ALSO READ: Teenage pregnancy: Time to openly discuss alternative solutions The discussions were complemented by a shared meal to promote bonding, and an environment that underscored the power of communal support. For Jacqueline Mujawase, founder of Destiny Helpers, the organization’s mission is grounded in a belief in second chances and potential transformation. “These young mothers can rewrite their stories. They can become better parents and contribute positively to the nation’s future. An activity like this is about giving them hope and reminding them that their past does not define their destiny,” Mujawase said. She also stressed the importance of breaking cycles of trauma, ensuring that children born to the teen mothers have a brighter future. ALSO READ: Why Rwandan adolescent mothers don’t seek psychosocial support The participants said they found renewed hope through the session. Delphine Mporanyisenga, who became a mother at 19, shared the struggles of raising a child without support. “I have faced frustration, especially after the father of my son denied him. At times, this frustration would manifest in how I treated my child. Today, I’ve learned the value of opening up and seeking support, rather than letting my emotions control me,” Mporanyisenga said. “I want my child to have a life filled with possibilities. With Destiny Helpers’ support, I am confident I can provide for him and help him live his dreams.” Jacqueline Uwingeneye, 23, reflected on the burdens of growing up without parental guidance. “Discussions like this ease the weight we carry in our hearts. They have inspired me to protect my children from the life I endured,” Uwingeneye said. ALSO READ: Today’s crisis of teen pregnancies and births is controllable and stoppable For Devotha Uwiduhaye the discussions reminded her to always have and confidence in her ability to rebuild a better life. “The mentors have shown me that there’s hope for a better life for a teenager even after becoming a mother. I want to pursue vocational training to secure a stable future for my child,” Uwiduhaye said. Destiny Helpers also committed to providing these young mothers with vocational training opportunities to enable them to achieve financial independence. Teenage pregnancy remains a problem in Rwanda, with thousands of adolescent girls getting pregnant every year. Multiple progammes by the government and civil society actors have been initiated to address the issue and challenges faced by teen mothers.
