Ornella Imena

IMENA Ornella is a Rwandese youth advocate, pioneer, and speaker. Born on 22nd December 2004, at her young age has dived into numerous leadership roles in her community. This has been aided by her public speaking, networking, and problem-solving skills.

During her secondary education, she served as; President of Girl Up Organization, Vice President of the Anti-Drugs Campaign, as well as Ambassador of Never Again Rwanda, all at institutional level. Her active role and use of these platforms paved the way for multiple campaigns around meaningful youth participation around gender equality, Girls in STEM, Job creation, patriotism and policy making. Post-graduation, Ornella was able to play key roles as. Programs Intern at AfriYAN Rwanda chapter. This is a youth network housing numerous youth-led organizations that focus on youth empowerment in terms of gender justice, Sexual Reproductive Health rights, Climate change. Deputy Executive Director for UWEZO Initiative Organization which is a youth-led initiative that works hand in hand with Kabuga sector in Kigali to support low- income families by facilitating the educational needs of their children.

Ornella’s shared passion for community building prompted her to co-initiate the “Bright future project” that is a program that currently offers educational funding for 70 Rwandan students from under-privileged families. Taking into consideration that despite Rwanda’s booming economy and growth, low-income families remain exposed to generational illiteracy and poverty.