WHO WE ARE

We Believe
-
There is dignity and purpose in every life
-
Human thriving happens in relationship with others
-
Healing takes place in community
-
Strong relationships require honesty, trust, and commitment
-
There is value in working hard with integrity
Our Leadership

Charity Mutesi
Co-Founder & Executive Director
Charity’s educational and professional pursuits have always had the ultimate purpose of serving the marginalized and bettering lives in her community. While studying in the US, Charity worked with several non-profits and gained experience as a UN intern. In Rwanda, Charity runs her own business and networks with others to see Rwandans continue to find hope and healing. • BBA, International Business Concentration, LeTourneau University • MA, Leadership and Organizational Development, Oklahoma Christian University
_edited.png)
Marie Grace Uwineza
Managing Director
Grace is passionate about capacity building and community empowerment. She has focused on capacity building for youth, people with disabilities, women, and vulnerable groups. As a facilitator, mentor, and coach, she helps people set goals, take action, and see results that lead to sustainable socio-economic outcomes. • Bachelor's degree in Economics, University of Rwanda • Certified Executive Coach

Latifah SUMAYA
KABAYIZA
Handcraft Trainer
My name is Sumaya Kabayiza Latifah, and I am a Handcraft Trainer at Bohoka. I am passionate about helping others discover, develop, and strengthen their creative talents through various handcraft skills, including crochet, jewelry making, and other handmade crafts. I enjoy sharing my knowledge and experience to empower others with practical skills that enable them to express their creativity, build confidence, and improve their livelihoods. I believe that handcraft is more than just a skill it is a pathway to creativity, self-reliance, and economic empowerment.

NYAMPINGA
Facilitator
My name is Nyampinga. I trained in hair braiding at Bohoka Employment Initiative, where I acquired practical skills and professional knowledge in hairstyling. After successfully completing my training, I was given the opportunity to serve as a Facilitator at Bohoka. In this role, I support the training of other women in hair braiding, helping them develop practical skills, improve their confidence, and prepare for self-employment

Brigitte KAMIKAZI
Kids Caregiver
My name is Brigitte Kamikazi. I am the Kids Caregiver at Bohoka Employment Initiative, where I provide daily care and support for the children in our program. My role is to ensure that the children are safe, cared for, and nurtured in a loving and supportive environment while their mothers participate in vocational training and other empowerment activities.

Rebecca Haesecke
Co-Founder &
US board President
Rebecca’s personal and professional life has consistently blended local and international work. After eight years of living, working, and raising a family in Guatemala, she returned to the US to work with international students, teach intercultural communication courses, and support the endeavors of international NGOs. • BA, International Ministries, Moody Bible Institute • MA, Intercultural and International Communication, Royal Roads University

Jean Claude YANKURIJE
Project coordinator
YANKURIJE Jean Claude is a dedicated Project Coordinator with over 10 years of experience in the NGO sector, specializing in program management and community development with a strong focus on youth and women empowerment in Rwanda. He previously served as Resource Mobilization Officer and Project Coordinator at SaferRwanda, District Manager at One Acre Fund, and Consultancy Facilitator for various local and international organizations. Jean Claude is a Fellow with UN FAO AIMS, DOT Rwanda, and Bright Future Cornerstone, and a member of African Food Changemakers. He is actively engaged in volunteerism and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture Mechanization from the School of Agricultural Engineering, University of Rwanda. His expertise includes resource mobilization, project coordination, and sustainable community initiatives.

Florence DUSENGIMANA
Facilitator
My name is Dukundimana Florence. I trained in hair braiding at Bohoka Employment Initiative, where I gained practical skills and professional knowledge in hairstyling. After successfully completing my training, I was given the opportunity to serve as a Facilitator at Bohoka. In this role, I train and mentor other women in hair braiding, helping them develop practical skills, build confidence, and prepare for self-employment or other income-generating opportunities.
_edited.jpg)
Adriel UKUNDWA
Social Media Manager
My name is UKUNDWA Adriel. I serve as the Social Media Manager at Bohoka Employment Initiative, where I am responsible for sharing our impact with the world through engaging digital content.
Rwanda board members
President
Vincent Nkuranga
Vice President
Zenko Clement
Treasure
Cynthia Umutoniwabo
Secretary
Heather Evans
American board members
President
Rebecca Haesecke
Vice President
Nell Spencer
Treasure
Sarah Epling
Secretary
Shelby Ware
History of Bohoka

Rebecca and Charity met while Charity was an undergraduate student. Rebecca was Charity’s international student advisor and they collaborated on several projects to promote intercultural learning and awareness. They talked of someday working together on a project that would use their expertise, passion, and faith to serve the marginalized in other parts of the world. Bohoka Employment Initiative is the result of nearly ten years of dreaming, praying, and preparing.

