My name is Faith Dirorimwe, and I participated in the Diploma Course of the Training for Transformation (TFT) program in 2024/2025. I am a coordinator for students at the Female Student Network. TFT has been a significant journey for me as it has strengthened my passion to help others and empowered me as well as the people I work with.
My Relationship with TFT
During the course, I was challenged to make the change I want to see. It was also a safe space to question and discuss things that are usually unquestioned. TFT added a deeper understanding of the community. I learned that before engaging with the community, it is crucial to understand its context and dynamics. Inspired by Paulo Freire’s methods of Popular Education, I realized that my role is not to tell people their problems but to help them recognize their challenges and find solutions. My task is to guide and provide a platform for such growth, which helps the community to become self-reliant and reduce dependency syndrome.
Through the course, I also gained insights into political economy, helping me see the forces behind decisions made globally, continentally, and locally. Even if I can’t address all issues, I can contribute my small part toward change. As each of us works towards change, we can collectively come up with ideas and alternatives to make a difference.
In working with students, this knowledge has been vital. I have a mandate to encourage youths to stand up for what they believe in. I gained facilitation skills during Learning Teaching Teams (LTTs) (a process where participants work together in groups and design and facilitate sessions for their fellow participants and facilitators) and learned to work with people despite differences, as well as ways of conflict resolution through transformation. The Eco-spirituality module helped me appreciate my values and embrace diversity, recognizing that we have different beliefs. I loved this module and also remember the strategic thinking approach from the “Thinking Hats” activity.
Another aspect of TFT that I appreciate is Social Research. We learned the importance of social research, its purpose, and the need to care about the subjects we study. This ignited a passion within me to stand strong and be who I am, nurturing a natural activism through the program.
Personal Story
During this period, I am glad that I managed to encourage a sister to break free from her fears and become the strong person she is. Initially, she felt confined to her roles as a finance officer, within her family, and church, but I encouraged her to explore beyond her imagination. Though she initially resisted, she eventually embraced the challenge and has become much more confident . Big shout out to her, Isheanopa Chiwamba—TFT is great!
ConclusionOverall, TFT has added immense value to my work with the Female Student Network and our broader community efforts. It has equipped us with the tools and knowledge to make meaningful changes and foster a culture of empowerment and sustainability. By sharing our stories, we continue to learn, celebrate our victories, and affirm our commitment to making the world a better place.
