From overcoming personal setbacks to pursuing a career in hospitality, 24-year-old Vanessa Mutoni’s journey reflects resilience, determination, and the power of never giving up on a dream.
A mother of two from Nyanza District. Her education was interrupted in Senior Four (S4) when she became pregnant, forcing her to leave school. Determined to provide for her family, she worked in restaurants and offered catering services at weddings while holding onto her dream of becoming a professional chef.
That dream took a new direction when a friend from College George Fox told her about the Friends Career Center (FCC) EmpowerHer Program. Seeing it as the opportunity she had been waiting for, Vanessa applied and was accepted into the Culinary Arts training program.
Before joining EmpowerHer, Vanessa struggled to access professional training and often lacked confidence in speaking in front of others. Today, she has developed practical skills in food preparation, hospitality, customer service, and entrepreneurship while growing into a more confident and self-assured young woman.
“Before joining EmpowerHer, I was shy and lacked confidence when speaking in front of people. Today, I can communicate confidently and prepare a variety of foods professionally. I chose Culinary Arts because cooking has always been my passion, and every day I become more skilled and more confident,” Vanessa says.
One of her proudest experiences was participating in the Kicukiro District Expo that showcases what different institutions and schools in Kicukiro are producing. Mwananshuti students prepared refreshments and served visitors, giving her valuable experience in customer service and professional hospitality. She also enjoyed a study visit to Gisenyi, where visits to hotels and local markets broadened her understanding of the hospitality industry.
Beyond her studies, Vanessa serves as a student leader responsible for promoting cleanliness and hygiene at school, demonstrating her commitment to leadership and teamwork.
After completing her training in September 2026, Vanessa plans to launch her own catering services, gain professional experience, and continue working toward her long-term goal of becoming a professional chef and building a successful catering business.
“EmpowerHer has given me the opportunity to pursue the dream I always wanted. My goal is to master every skill, start my own catering business, and build a better future for my children. I am deeply grateful to Friends Career Center for believing in women like me and giving us the chance to transform our lives.”
Vanessa’s story is a powerful reminder that when determination is matched with opportunity, lives can be transformed. Through the FCC EmpowerHer Programme, she is building not only professional skills but also the confidence and hope to create a brighter future for herself and her family.
Find out more about EmpowerHer program at https://friendscareercenter.org/rwanda-programs/
