This summer, Rwanda welcomed back its youth from the diaspora community, some of whom are pursuing internships across the country’s leading institutions.

For many, it was their first professional experience in Rwanda, and a chance to reconnect with family, culture, and identity.

The New Times took the opportunity to speak to different UK-based Rwanda youth about their journeys, experiences, and what message they have for their peers abroad.

Read what they had to say in the vox-pop below:

ALSO READ: Diaspora youth urged to lead Rwanda’s rebirth

Dylan Gaparay Ntabana, 21, Health sciences university student in UK, Intern at Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC)

I came to Kigali for an internship at RBC, specifically in the Public Health Surveillance and Emergency Preparedness Response Department. Honestly, my experience has been amazing, it far surpassed my expectations.

I study health sciences and want to pursue a career in public health. Initially, I just wanted to understand what public health really entails, since it’s such a broad field.

But during my internship, I was given opportunities I never expected, for example missions to places like Nyaruguru to see health challenges first-hand, and tasks with real weight and responsibility. That was a great privilege and very insightful.

The biggest skill I gained is communication. At RBC, I realised that what happens in the office impacts health centres across the country, so everything must be connected and clearly communicated. I learned how vital it is to give precise details so that others fully understand what needs to be done.

ALSO READ: Rwandan Diaspora urged to use online power of attorney for property transfers

Beyond work, what I’ve loved most about Rwanda is the culture, especially dance. I’ve been to several weddings, and the energy, joy, and meaning behind the dances are incredible. I first learned traditional dance in 2023 through a cultural camp, and it inspired me to keep practicing. Alongside dance, I value Kinyarwanda deeply, because it’s more than language, it carries values and identity that we, as diaspora, must embrace.

Looking ahead, I graduate next year. My goal is to keep building my experience and eventually return to Rwanda to work in public health. I want to contribute positively and be proud of the impact I make here.

And to the diaspora community, I’d say never forget that we are Rwandans first. It starts with our parents, but at some point it becomes personal, we must take the initiative to know our culture and our country. Be curious, ask questions, and take that first step to connect back home, no matter where you live.

ALSO READ: How Rwanda diaspora homecoming could boost investment

Ashley Karera, 20, (first-year business student based in London), currently doing an internship at Ecobank Rwanda

To be honest, it feels great to be back home to see family, friends, and just have that feeling of being right back at home.

The thing I liked most this time is the internship opportunities I got at Ecobank. I’m at a point where I have to do internships to build my CV, so getting to do that here at home has been really great. I got the opportunity through a networking business in the UK called Rwanda Business UK, I met someone who connected me. I then sent my CV and cover letter, and that’s how I got the internship.

I knew the least about banking, but I wanted to learn because in life you need financial knowledge, whether it’s a mortgage, financing a car, or starting a project. That’s why I chose banking.

I gained valuable skills like critical thinking, because in the banking sector even one number can mess up a whole spreadsheet. I also learned about loans, credit, risk assessment, and disbursement of funds. One skill I didn’t expect was social skills. Field visits taught me how to connect with clients, align interests, and build relationships. That’s something I know I’ll use in the future.

To my fellow Diaspora community, take that trip, because you never know how much it could change your life. Rwanda is home. Even if you’ve never been here before, as a member of the diaspora, once you come, you instantly feel a sense of belonging. That feeling inspires you to want to contribute, to help build the country, and to be part of its growth.

Even if you’re hesitating or considering going somewhere else, trust me, come to Rwanda. You’re going to have so much fun, and you’re going to love it.

Gervais Trada Shema, 21, Sports marketing university student, Intern at Rwanda Development Board (RBD)

I’m passionate about sports marketing and management, and this summer I was fortunate to join an internship with RDB, working under Visit Rwanda partnerships.

It was the perfect timing. I got to work on partnerships with Arsenal, PSG, Atletico Madrid, BAL and Giants of Africa. From the very start, they really involved me, and it’s been an invaluable experience for my future career.

The internship itself was multifaceted. I learned diplomacy, working with ministries, communication and negotiation, working with big clubs and agencies, and even sales skills.

But beyond the professional side, I loved the cultural training, connecting with other diaspora, learning Kinyarwanda, even sharing cold showers and late nights together in the Diaspora camp. Those moments built friendships and made me feel closer to home.

Many in the diaspora underestimate what they can contribute here, but my experience proved it’s much more impactful being on the ground in Rwanda than being in a UK program that just feels like more school.

What I love about Kigali is the contrast with London, it’s calmer, the climate is better, and people are warmer and more open. I enjoy going to basketball games at BK Arena, but I also recommend lesser-known activities like Fazenda, with horse riding, archery and quad biking.

Looking forward, my mission is clear, to use sports as my vehicle to inspire and empower the youth, and to keep contributing to Rwanda’s growth.

And to the diaspora community, in whatever capacity you can, professional, social, cultural, join efforts to advance Rwanda. Don’t undermine your potential or underestimate this country’s opportunities. Every contribution counts in building the future of the nation we all love.

Jarvis Shema Wizeye, 20, Economics & Data Analytics University student, Intern at National Bank of Rwanda

I started this summer with the Rwanda Youth Tour, which was an incredible experience. We travelled across the country, visited key historical sites, and met people from different industries and countries, mainly fellow members of the diaspora.

It really gave me a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s history, from the liberation struggle to the years leading up to 1994. Seeing how far the country has come gave me a new appreciation and pride in calling Rwanda home.

After the tour, I began an internship at the National Bank of Rwanda in the Monetary Policy Department, specifically with the Economic Analysis team. It’s been an invaluable learning experience.

I’ve had the chance to work alongside senior advisors and economists, attend internal meetings, and see how the theory I studied in university, economics and data analytics, applies in real life. It was challenging at first, especially keeping up with technical terminology in a fast-paced environment, but it pushed me to adapt quickly.

Looking ahead, I’ll graduate in June 2026. I’m considering further studies or starting work in the UK, but long-term, I see myself building a life and career here in Kigali.

There are so many opportunities in Rwanda, both in traditional careers and in entrepreneurship. Unlike more developed economies where markets are saturated, Rwanda is still growing and full of untapped potential. For me, the dream is to one day start my own business here and contribute to the country’s development.

To the diaspora, my message is simple: come home. Visit Rwanda and see the opportunities for yourself. It’s a beautiful, fast-developing country, and being part of its growth is something you don’t want to miss out on. At the very least, you’ll gain an experience that will change the way you see your home country.

For me, this summer has given me the confidence that I can build a career and a future here, and I encourage others to see it for themselves.