About Us
Our Story Begins with “Urukundo” (Love)
When founder Melissa Gahungu visited Irtyazo Elementary School in 2023, she stood in the beautiful hills of Burundi and had a profound realization:
“I couldn’t help but think a couple of different twists and turns could have easily led me to being an Irtyazo alumni instead of my own journey, thousands of miles away, in California.”
Melissa was born in Burundi and immigrated to the United States. Her family was supported by countless donations and acts of kindness that made their new life in possible.
Now, she feels it’s her turn to pay it forward.
History of the School
For nearly nine months, a dedicated group of crowdfunded volunteers from Sudbury, Canada, worked together to establish the Solidarity-Burundi Committee with the goal of building a school in Irtyazo, a remote village in Burundi. This educational initiative was created to support the local parents and children, offering an opportunity for learning in an area where access to education was previously limited. Without the tireless efforts of this group (see website), the school would never have come to fruition.
The Challenge
In Burundi’s rolling hills, geography creates barriers to education. Before Irtyazo Elementary School, children faced impossible journeys to reach school. Many girls are encouraged to stay home for household duties, while boys enter the workforce early to support their families. Without completing 7th grade, students cannot progress to high school or access apprenticeships.
Our Current Mission
Our current mission is to expand Irtyazo Elementary School by adding a 7th grade—an essential milestone that not only enables students to progress to high school, but also creates opportunities for those who otherwise wouldn’t be able to continue their education. We’re also working to equip the school with textbooks, educational supplies, and to bring electricity to the region, which will significantly improve the learning environment and create new possibilities for the entire community.
How You Can Help
Your support provides education, creates local jobs, and breaks cycles of poverty. Every child deserves the chance to learn and shape their future.
