Celebrating the women who have shaped our history and the women who are influencing our future.

Thank you so much to everyone who joined us on November 15, 2020 for Akilah’s Women of the Decade Awards! This live, virtual event was a celebration of the women who have shaped our history and who are influencing our future. The Akilah Women of the Decade Awards recognizes the inspiring successes of our talented and diverse Alumnae. Watch the event now:

Meet Akilah’s Women of the Decade

We are thrilled to announce our winners from each graduating class. Akilah women are undoubtedly in a league of their own: they are Ambassadors, Trailblazers, Activists, Innovators, and Mentors. We value and celebrate the contributions they have made — and continue to make — to our community.

Class of 2012: Salama Umuhoza

Salama graduated from Akilah in 2012 with a Diploma in Hospitality Management. After graduating, she founded her own company, Salama Tours & Travel Agency, in Rwanda. In addition to running her own company, she is also a manager at Bourbon Coffee in Kigali. Salama is currently pursuing her second degree from Vatel Rwanda.

“Salama is very passionate about the tourism and hospitality industry. She started her own tour company in February 2020, which aims to showcase the beauty of her country and assist local communities. Despite the challenges of Covid-19, she didn’t give up. She has persisted in order to achieve her vision.”

Class of 2013: Chantal Umutesi

Chantal graduated from Akilah in 2013 with a Diploma in Hospitality Management. Since graduating, she has worked with a number of companies across Rwanda’s thriving hospitality and tourism industry, including with Nyungwe Forest Lodge and Tohoza Advertising. She also recently started her own company, Berwa Crochet, creating and selling upcycled goods that celebrate Rwandan culture.

“Chantal’s creativity shines through her business and YouTube channel called ‘Berwa Crochet’. She is always learning and trying new things, like making vases and necklaces from plastic waste. This is very important for the community as she celebrates Rwandan culture and promotes environmental protection by recycling.”

Class of 2015: Darlène Laure Karamutsa

Darlène is the Project Director of the Masoro Learning and Sports Center, an entity that is impacting over 5000 citizens of Rulindo district. Its mission is to support the development of Rwandan communities by empowering women and youth through comprehensive and inclusive programs focused on health, education, and the economy. Prior to joining the Masoro Learning and Sports Center, Darlène worked for 5 years as the Capacity Development and Social Impact Manager at Abahizi Rwanda, a Kate Spade manufacturing partner in Rwanda. Darlène graduated from Akilah in 2015 with a Diploma in Hospitality Management and Leadership and she holds a Bachelor’s Degree of Sciences in Hospitality Management.

“Darlène is a go-getter and an adventurous woman. She will always stand-up for the people around her and show support. When she was working with ADC in Masoro, she helped women to learn English and taught them hygiene and health reproduction. I have visited the center of Masoro and it’s amazing how they talked about Darlène.”

Class of 2016: Juliette Tumurere

Juliette graduated from Akilah in 2016 with a Diploma in Hospitality Management. She continued her studies at Mount Kenya University, where she graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality Management. She works at Davis College and Akilah as a Recruitment Officer, recruiting prospective students from around the country.

“Juliette is an outstanding woman. She enjoys supporting everyone around her and thrives on seeing the growth and success of those she helps. No matter what, she is always empathetic and willing to offer mentorship to Akilah students and applicants.”

Class of 2017: Alyn Sano

Alyn graduated from Akilah in 2017 with a Diploma in Hospitality Management. As a student, Alyn served on the Student Guild as Minister of Entertainment. She produced her first song while she was a student at Akilah, and most recently competed on The Voice Afrique Francophone, placing among the top 12 semi-finalists. She has won the Salax Best Female Artist, Best Upcoming Artist, and MADE IN RWANDA best female artist awards.

“Sano has given back to the Akilah community and beyond by inspiring so many young women to follow their passion. Since graduation, she has applied her skills and talents to become one of the most respected singers in the country. She has also given back to her community by starting a music label for upcoming female artists, where she mentors them and supports their success.”

Class of 2018: Nicole Umuziranenge

Nicole graduated from Akilah in 2018 with a Diploma in Hospitality Management and Leadership. After working with Akilah’s Communications team, she joined Vuba Vuba Africa as Communications & Marketing Manager. While studying at Akilah, Nicole served on the Student Guild, and continues to play an active role in Akilah’s alumnae community.

“Nicole tirelessly supports others and takes measures to improve the lives of those around her. She has a generous spirit and demonstrates boundless compassion. She is such a good soul — always ready to help students who are in need.”

Class of 2019: Archange Umugabe

Archangeis a Junior Salesforce Developer at Davis College and Akilah. She graduated from Akilah in 2019 with a Diploma in Information Systems and joined the team after completing her internship with Davis College’s data and systems team. She enjoys all things data-related; from database development to database management and data analysis, and hopes to become a Client Relationship Management Expert.

“Archange is highly respected and inspires those around her. She is applying her skills and knowledge, while striving to improve and learn more. She is generous, humble and is always willing to help others.”

Thank you to everyone who submitted a nomination! We were delighted to receive so many heartfelt testimonies and read about the inspiring achievements of each alumna. Our three finalists from each graduating class embody the values of our community. Read about our incredible nominees here.