Solange Ingabire’s story is one of resilience, determination, and hope.

Born in Kiziba Refugee Camp in Rwanda, after her family fled violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Solange grew up in an environment where opportunities were limited but dreams remained powerful.

Despite the challenges of refugee life—including limited access to electricity, internet, and educational resources—Solange remained committed to pursuing education.

Her determination paid off when she was accepted to EARTH University in Costa Rica, where she received a full scholarship from the Mastercard Foundation to study Agricultural Sciences.

Learning Spanish, adapting to a new culture, and studying far from home presented new challenges, but Solange remained motivated by her vision of returning to her community and contributing to its development.

Inspired by her experiences, she helped create YES WE CAN, a youth initiative designed to create spaces for dialogue among refugee youth and encourage them to pursue education and leadership opportunities.

Today, Solange continues to inspire young refugees by demonstrating that circumstances do not define potential.

Her message to young people facing adversity remains simple but powerful:

If you keep knocking on doors and believing in your dreams, nothing is impossible.