Mbonyineza Noel, a 13-year-old boy from Rwanda and a Grade 6 student, spoke about how REPSSI’s project helped him turn his life around. “Before receiving support, I had bad behaviors like stealing and disobeying my parents,” he admitted, describing how his poor academic performance and association with friends who had negative influences affected his self-esteem.

However, through REPSSI’s sessions, Noel began to understand the importance of setting goals, developing self-awareness, and choosing good friends. “I learned to be a good boy with good behavior,” he shared with pride, adding that he now has aspirations to become a social worker.

Noel’s transformation was visible to his parents, who were impressed with his improved school attendance and his willingness to help at home.

 He explained, “I feel safe sharing my thoughts with the REPSSI team without fear of judgment.” Grateful for the project, Noel said it provided him a safe environment to build confidence and make positive choices.