Opportunities Program

Group of five people smiling and interacting in a room, with white curtains in the background.

The Opportunities Program equips young Burundians with critical academic and professional competencies, bridging gaps such as limited English proficiency, lack of networks, and insufficient writing and speaking skills. By combining language instruction with exposure to academic discourse and the development of critical thinking, participants progress beyond theoretical knowledge and build practical expertise. Through targeted training for standardized tests like the SAT and TOEFL, they become more competitive for international universities and scholarships. The program also includes in-depth interview preparation, covering everything from presentation skills to question response strategies, ensuring participants can confidently articulate their strengths and ambitions. As a result, they emerge as articulate, forward-thinking individuals ready to seize world-class academic and professional opportunities, significantly increasing their likelihood of securing scholarships, fellowships, and meaningful employment both locally and globally.

Our Approach

Pursuing high-quality education in Burundi can be challenging, yet the Opportunities Program equips motivated learners with the tools and support to excel in competitive academic environments. Through engaging sessions that foster collaboration, critical thinking, and practical skill-building, participants gain the confidence and capabilities needed to succeed at every stage of their journey.

Key benefits of the program include:

  • Technical support to ensure consistent access to digital resources and online learning opportunities

  • Essay review that refines writing skills and elevates application quality

  • Personalized mentorship offering tailored guidance on academic paths and career exploration

  • Recommendation letters for students who successfully complete the program, boosting their credibility in scholarship and professional pursuits

Testimonials

  • Person wearing a white t-shirt with the text "I'm doing this for me" and a rosary necklace, standing in front of a background with partially visible text.

    “Participating in the Menya Accelerator program was a transformative experience that opened many doors for me. It not only equipped me with invaluable skills but also gave me the confidence to pursue larger opportunities. Thanks to the Menya Accelerator, I had the privilege of going abroad to join the YALI program, which further broadened my horizons. I am also excited to share that I have been selected for the Tujenge Africa Foundation program.”

    Bertille Uwingabire ‘22

  • Young man smiling, wearing a Menya Accelerator t-shirt, with a branded backdrop.

    “I often think back to my acceptance into the Menya Accelerator program, which truly changed my life. It helped me view challenges as opportunities to assist others. I was paired with a mentor who offered valuable insights about universities abroad and connected with people in the U.S. who shared their experiences. Thanks to these connections, I transitioned smoothly to life at Lehigh University. My time with Menya Accelerator was truly unique.”

    Toussaint Mbabazi ‘22

  • Smiling person in a Menya Accelerator shirt standing in front of a banner with logos and text.

    “I was inspired by participants in the program, especially through connections made by Menya with Burundian students at U.S. universities. A mentor helped me navigate the application process, and I improved my interview skills in a workshop led by Miss Burundi Kelly Ngaruko. I’m thrilled to have completed my first semester at the University of Pennsylvania, majoring in Economics and International Studies. I also worked on a health project to improve our country's healthcare system, which was very rewarding.”

    Queren KUBWARUGIRA ‘22

  • Young person wearing a white "Menya Accelerator" t-shirt, standing in front of a logo background.

    “The Menya Accelerator has connected me with inspiring young individuals and provided opportunities like the Yale Young Global Scholars program in the USA, where I engaged with like-minded peers. Additionally, the program helped me develop leadership skills, leading to the co-founding of Mpumvudza, a project focused on improving food quality and production.”

    Mike Akimana ‘22

Three people sitting at a table wearing matching white t-shirts with a logo, giving thumbs-up gestures. Bottles of water and name cards are visible on the table.
Person wearing "Yale Clinical Neurosciences" shirt standing in front of a brick building with green shutters and white columns.
Group of young people smiling and posing together outdoors against a wall.
Individual wearing a "Lehigh" t-shirt, standing against a light-colored wall, arms crossed.
Group of people outdoors, engaged in a playful activity, standing on pavement, with a metal gate and wall in the background.