In the third quarter of 2026, the first cohort of the SheCreates, Empowering Young Women Entrepreneurs Fellowship reached the final stage of the program. Launched in October 2025, SheCreates is a 12-month initiative implemented by Friends Career Center (FCC) in partnership with Forward Africa Education Trust (FAET) and TLC to equip 20 Rwandan women aged 18–30 with the skills, training, mentorship, and seed funding needed to develop innovative and socially impactful businesses.
The fellowship was designed to respond to youth unemployment by fostering entrepreneurship in sectors such as tourism, agriculture, health, and digital inclusion. Through hands-on training, leadership development, mentorship, and practical business support, participants are empowered to become job creators and changemakers contributing to Rwanda’s transformation.
This quarter has been an important period of putting learning into practice, strengthening businesses, working closely with mentors, and preparing for life beyond the program. All participants joined the fellowship with a business idea, and several are already running early-stage ventures across diverse sectors, including agriculture and agribusiness, fashion and tailoring, food and catering, and digital and financial services.
During this period, participants received seed funding to support the development and growth of their businesses. The funding is helping them invest in key areas of their ventures, while mentors provide guidance, encouragement, and practical advice as they implement their business plans, address challenges, and make informed decisions.
Rather than focusing only on theory, SheCreates encourages participants to apply their learning to real business situations. Through mentorship and continued support, participants are strengthening their businesses, building confidence, and developing the skills needed to pursue sustainable growth.
As the first cohort approaches the completion of the fellowship, the focus is shifting toward sustainability and life beyond the program. FCC aims to continue supporting the young women as they build on the skills, networks, confidence, and resources gained through SheCreates. The journey continues as these young women turn their ideas into growing businesses and create opportunities for themselves and their communities.
