Naome Uzayisenga

Naome Uzayisenga stepped into the role of Growth Guide with a clear purpose — to help young entrepreneurs better understand business and gain the confidence to engage with financial institutions. She recognized that many youth had potential but were held back by limited knowledge and hesitation when it came to formalizing their businesses or approaching financial services. Her work focuses on closing that gap by building both understanding and confidence.

So far, she has supported over 300 young people, and one of the most noticeable changes in her community is the shift in how youth approach their businesses. Many are moving away from informal practices and beginning to keep written records, organize their operations, and take steps toward engaging with financial institutions. This growing sense of structure shows that mindset change is already taking place, even before access to finance becomes a reality.

A key part of her approach is creating direct connections. By linking young entrepreneurs with managers from financial institutions, she helps make these spaces feel more accessible and less intimidating. Although the youth she supports have not yet accessed loans, the groundwork is being laid — they are becoming more prepared, more informed, and more confident to take that step when the opportunity comes.

Through this role, Naome has also learned that change takes time and consistency. Not everyone applies what they are taught immediately, which has shown her the importance of continuous follow-up and encouragement. This has strengthened her approach, making her more patient and more intentional in how she supports others.

Looking ahead, she hopes to see young people not only running businesses but also building strong financial habits, especially around saving. She believes that combining entrepreneurship with discipline in saving can create more stable and sustainable progress for youth.

Her message is simple but grounded in experience: believe in your ability, start with what you have, and keep working toward your goals. For her, confidence and consistency are what turn small beginnings into real growth.