Days 15-17: A Bittersweet Farewell and Lasting Lessons

Thursday, May 28th, 2026

Our final days in Rwanda were spent back in the classroom alongside the MindLeaps participants and Mercer undergraduate students as we completed the second week of project management training. Together, we continued exploring project management principles through lectures, collaborative activities, and breakout sessions designed to reinforce learning and encourage practical application.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the week was watching the participants grow in confidence. Throughout the program, we witnessed individuals challenge themselves, ask thoughtful questions, collaborate with one another, and embrace opportunities to learn new skills. The week concluded with a graduation ceremony that celebrated not only the completion of the training but also the commitment, perseverance, and determination demonstrated by every participant.

While we anticipated saying goodbye at some point, our departure came sooner than expected due to concerns surrounding the Ebola outbreak in neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo. As a precaution, our team departed Rwanda earlier than planned. Although we understood the reasons for the decision, leaving was bittersweet. In a relatively short period of time, Rwanda had become more than a destination, it had become a place filled with meaningful relationships, unforgettable experiences, and lessons that will remain with me long after returning home.

As I reflect on this journey, I realize that some of the most important lessons had little to do with project management and everything to do with leadership, community, and perspective.

Rwanda challenged me to think differently about what it means to live a rich and fulfilling life.

While many societies measure success through financial resources or material possessions, I was continually inspired by the richness of community, culture, resilience, and human connection that I experienced throughout the country.

The people we met demonstrated an extraordinary sense of hospitality, generosity, and togetherness. They reminded me that leadership is not always demonstrated through position or authority; often, it is demonstrated through service, humility, perseverance, and the willingness to support one another. These experiences reinforced the type of leader I aspire to be, one who listens before speaking, seeks to understand before being understood, and recognizes that every individual has something valuable to teach.

This journey also taught me the importance of gratitude. It reminded me not to take opportunities, resources, relationships, or experiences for granted. I witnessed communities that maximize what they have, support one another, and find joy in circumstances that many would consider challenging. Their resourcefulness, optimism, and determination were both humbling and inspiring.

Perhaps the greatest lesson I am taking home is that leadership is ultimately about people. It is about building relationships, creating opportunities, empowering others, and leaving a positive impact wherever you go. Throughout this experience, I had the privilege of sharing knowledge and investing in others, but I leave feeling as though I received far more than I gave. The lessons, friendships, and memories gained through this experience have left a lasting impression on both my personal and professional life.

As I boarded the plane home, I felt a mixture of gratitude, pride, and sadness. Gratitude for the opportunity to serve, pride in the work accomplished alongside an incredible team, and sadness in leaving behind a place and people who had become so meaningful in such a short time. A piece of my heart will always remain in Rwanda.

While this chapter has come to an end, the relationships, lessons, and experiences will continue to shape the way I lead, serve, and engage with others for years to come. I look forward to maintaining the connections that were made and carrying forward the spirit of community, resilience, and servant leadership that Rwanda so beautifully exemplified.