The afternoon of July 27, 2025, marked the beginning of a new chapter not just for me, but for the youth of Museke Village. With a notebook in hand and purpose in my heart, I set out to connect with young people in my village, to form a savings group rooted in sustainable development.

This wasn’t just about money. It was about building something lasting socially, environmentally, and personally.

I began by greeting everyone I met, walking through the village with intention and openness. Each conversation was an opportunity to share the vision of saving together, and growing together. Some youth signed up immediately, energized by the idea. Others hesitated, saying they would think about it. I respected their pace, but I didn’t stop.

House by house, I kept going. Every smile, every question, every “maybe” was a step forward.

The village is large, and I knew I couldn’t reach every home in one day. So, I got creative. I took my notebook and headed to the evening market, where youth gathered in numbers. There, I explained the benefits of sustainable self-development through group savings.

To my joy, many signed up on the spot. The market became more than a place of commerce, it became a platform for transformation.

I attended every village meeting I could, and at the end of each, I made announcements inviting youth to join. Those who had already registered helped explain the concept to others, even during umuganda. This peer-to-peer support gave the movement strength and credibility.

We weren’t just building a group; we were building trust.

I continued visiting homes, encouraging registered youth to meet and plan our first session. For those I hadn’t reached, I took time to explain again. Many joined. I asked the village leader to call a youth meeting, and together we chose a weekly savings day and agreed on a fixed contribution amount.

All of this happened in just nine days.

This experience challenged me to think deeply, adapt quickly, and connect genuinely. I memorized the names of the youth I met, because remembering someone’s name is remembering their story. I called them regularly, building familiarity and friendship.

What began as a simple idea became a vibrant movement. It reminded me that real change starts with listening, persistence, and a belief in people’s potential.

As I reflect on those nine days, I see more than a savings group. I see a community awakening to its own strength. I see youth stepping into leadership. I see the beginning of something powerful.

This is only the beginning. Stay tuned for more stories, lessons, and shared victories from Museke Village.