The youth of Agahozo-Shalom come fromall 30 districts of Rwanda; four representatives are chosen from each district every year. Each young personcarries the culture of their home, unique talents, the insatiable desire to learn and grow, but also the weight of incredible hardship. Our young people are survivors. Many have weatheredextreme poverty, sexual abuse, and emotional neglect. They are orphaned teenagers who were mostly left to fend for themselves in a country scarred by a brutal genocide. In English class, the children studied Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I have a Dream" speech. They were instructed to write reaction pieces and speak about their personal dreams and aspirations. Not one response mentioned personal riches, glory, or material possessions. One by one they spoke about their dreams to unite their beautiful country, to spread the message of peace and understanding, to teach those in their communities that do not have access to education. When you enter the Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village their spirit overcomes you. To witness the resilience and strength of our kids is inspiring, and to live in a world where their dreams will be realized is truly the definition of hope.
