Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village

Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village: Empowering Rwanda’s Future Leaders

Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village (ASYV) is a non-profit organization with a mission to transform the lives of vulnerable youth in Rwanda by providing them with a safe, supportive environment and access to quality education. Headquartered at 234 5th Ave, Suite 209, New York, NY 10001, this impactful initiative operates as a beacon of hope for children who have faced unimaginable hardships, including the loss of family due to genocide or other tragedies. ASYV is open 24 hours and serves as a bridge between international supporters and the on-the-ground efforts in Rwanda.

A Holistic Approach to Youth Development

Founded on the principles of healing and empowerment, Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village adopts a holistic approach to youth development. The organization focuses on nurturing not just academic excellence but also emotional well-being and social responsibility. Inspired by the model of Israeli youth villages established after World War II, ASYV provides its students—known as “Village Youth”—with a family-like structure that fosters growth and resilience.

The village itself is located in rural Rwanda and spans over 144 acres. It offers state-of-the-art facilities such as classrooms, science labs, art studios, sports fields, and residential homes. Each student is placed into a “family” led by a dedicated mentor or “house mother,” creating an environment where they can rebuild trust and develop meaningful relationships.

Education That Inspires Change

At the heart of ASYV’s mission is education. The organization runs an accredited secondary school that emphasizes STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), entrepreneurship, and leadership skills. Students are encouraged to think critically and innovate solutions for challenges facing their communities. Beyond academics, ASYV integrates extracurricular activities like music, drama, sports, and farming into its curriculum to ensure students receive well-rounded development.

One unique feature of ASYV’s educational model is its focus on Tikkun Olam—a Hebrew phrase meaning “repairing the world.” This philosophy encourages students to give back to their communities through service projects and social initiatives.

Global Support Network

While its operations are based in Rwanda, Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village relies heavily on international partnerships and donations facilitated through its New York office. Supporters from around the globe contribute financially or volunteer their time to help sustain this life-changing program. By connecting donors directly with success stories from the village, ASYV ensures transparency and fosters long-term relationships with its supporters.

Impact That Lasts a Lifetime

Since its inception in 2008, Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village has transformed the lives of thousands of young Rwandans who now serve as leaders in their communities. Graduates leave equipped not only with academic qualifications but also with confidence, compassion, and a sense of purpose that drives them to create positive change wherever they go.

For those looking to make an impact on global youth development or learn more about this inspiring initiative, visit Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village or contact their New York office at +1 631-317-1763.