Inspiring Action

Dear Friends and Supporters,

We are excited to share the highlights from a remarkable month at Spring Communities, filled with inspiring journeys and impactful initiatives. From Burundi to Belgium, check out how Spring Communities and the youth involved in our programs are not only taking action by connecting and inspiring other youth accross Belgium and Guinea, but also learning from others’ experience.

Youth Ambassadors' Trip to Belgium

In October, ten of our dedicated Youth Ambassadors traveled to Belgium as part of the YOUCA Action Day 2024. The theme this year, "The Right to a Healthy and Safe Environment," with the hashtag #MonQuartierTransformé, resonated deeply with our mission. During their stay, the Ambassadors visited six public schools, presenting their project focused on youth contributions to waste management in Burundi.

The warm hospitality of their host families allowed the Ambassadors to immerse themselves in Belgian culture, fostering valuable exchanges and strengthening ties between our communities. This experience not only highlighted the importance of youth activism but also aimed to inspire Belgian students to engage in meaningful work to support our initiatives back home.

Circus4Climate Project

The second part of the trip was equally transformative, involving the Circus4Climate project in collaboration with KIYO, Amoukanama, and Ell Circo D'Ell Fuego. This initiative used art to address environmental issues. Prior to the creation of a captivating show at Corso, our Youth Ambassadors participated in a workshop with Good Planet Belgium. This engaging session provided them, along with local artists and youth, with insights into the causes and consequences of climate change and potential solutions.

Our Youth Ambassadors returned to Burundi energized and eager to implement the innovative waste management strategies they learned from their Belgian peers.

Transforming Education in Burundi: The Power of 'Indero Yacu, Uruhara Rwanje'

"INDERO YACU URUHARA RWANJE" is an educational comic book that empowers youth in schools through the "Hub d'Inspiration" created by Spring Communities but also in other communities like the site of Mubimbi. By combining engaging storytelling with essential educational content, this educational tool inspires love for learning, encourages critical thinking, and addresses social issues. In partnership with KIYO and the Ministry of National Education in Burundi, the initiative enhances literacy and builds community among young learners. Ultimately, it inspires students to dream bigger and actively contribute to their communities, demonstrating the transformative power of creative educational resources in Burundi.

International Engagement and Support

• Ruremesha H. Hardy, our Executive Director, attended the Opportunity Collaboration Summit in Mexico where he got the opportunity to connect with potential sponsors and donors aligned with our vision for access to quality education and job creation.
• Spring Communities received a generous donation from Ornella S., founder of Imana VZW which is going to support the education of over 200 children at the NANJE NOBAHO Arts Center in Buterere.
• Arclaine Hashimwiyaturagiye, an environmental youth advocate from Spring Communities participated at the EAC Youth Fellowship 2nd Cohort and is now at the YouLead Africa Summit in Arusha, Tanzania.

Looking Ahead

As we move forward, we remain committed to empowering our youth through art and creating sustainable change in our communities. Thank you for your continued support and belief in our mission.