The Akilah Institute Careers team connects students and alumnae with professionals from different backgrounds and industries.

As students prepare to graduate from the Akilah Institute and launch their careers, our Careers team has been hard at work facilitating conversations and mentorship opportunities between students, alumnae, and working professionals across industries. During a series of round table discussions, students learned about everything from what employers look for when hiring candidates to the importance of grabbing available job opportunities.

Take a look at the highlights from our inspirational speakers!

Carmen Nibigira and Francine Niyifasha

Carmen Nibigira is the Project Director at Howarth HTL, a consulting firm offering services in hotel real estate, tourism, and leisure development. Francine, an Akilah graduate (HM ’16), now works in the Akilah Institute Finance Department.

Carmen shared with the students how important it is to pursue opportunities in any industry at the start of one’s career, even if that particular job isn’t one’s dream job. She first gained experience in tourism and hospitality while working as a housekeeper in a hotel, sharing:

“In life, there is a lot of competition and those who do not grab opportunities will be left behind in finding jobs.”

Moses Twahirwa and Belise Karangwa

Moses Twahirwa started Moshions Fashion Rwanda, Esther Bugaiga works as Akilah’s Communications Officer, and Belise Karangwa is an Akilah graduate (’17) and Business Development Associate at Inkomoko.

Students learned about Moshions Fashion and his inspiration for the brand. Moses shared that the main qualities he looks for in candidates are a passion for fashion and hard work. He encouraged students to pursue their dreams and not let challenges dissuade them.

Belise and Esther discussed the importance of taking responsibility for one’s life by creating plans and pursuing the opportunities they find.

Noel Ntabanganyimana

Country Director of The Women’s Bakery, Noel Ntabanganyimana, spent time sharing with students advice he would have given himself when he was their age and just starting out in his career. He also gave examples of program management tools that students can use on the job to stay organized and be proactive.

“When you graduate you only have theoretical skills, so you need practical skills. After school, you’ll need to intern, network with people, and start working on a business plan. Work hard and take other jobs first, then you’ll work up to your dream job.”

Stay tuned for highlights from next trimester’s speaker series, and thank you to everyone who shared their knowledge and insights with our community!