In this uplifting episode, Jonah speaks with Jean-Claude Nkulikiyimfura, the Executive Director of the Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village (ASYV) in Rwanda. ASYV was founded to support orphans of the Rwandan genocide, providing a holistic education model rooted in Jewish principles like Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) and Tikkun Ha Lev (repairing the heart). Jonah has a personal connection, having volunteered there soon after college.
Jean-Claude (JC) and Jonah discuss the Youth Village's success in preparing students for adulthood, which a recent Tulane University study highlights with impressive outcomes, including high rates of college placement and employment. The conversation covers impactful initiatives like the Inheritance Theater Project, which empowers young women, and the broader context of societal healing in post-genocide Rwanda. Jean-Claude also shares his personal experience as a refugee and details the future vision of ASYV, including the "Anything is Possible" campaign aimed at sustaining and expanding their vital mission.
The conversation covers:
- The Founding and Mission of Aga Shalom Youth Village
- Welcoming the Executive Director: Jean Claude's Journey
- Jewish Principles and the Vision for A SYV
- The Impact of A SYV: Programs and Success Stories
- Tulane University Study: Proving the Concept
- Scaling Deep: The Future of ASYV
- Gender Equity and the Inheritance Theater Project
- Rwanda's Transformation: From Genocide to Progress
- The Anything is Possible Campaign
Mentioned In The Episode:
JC socials:
The Anything is Possible Campaign at ASYV
Ann Heyman, Founder of Agahzo-Shalom
ASYV Study with Tulane University
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Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt
