Biography
Valens Bararendeza is a passionate Rwandan community development practitioner whose work is grounded in the belief that sustainable transformation begins at the grassroots level. Born and raised in Rwanda, he developed a deep interest in human behavior and social systems, which inspired him to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology at the University of Rwanda. This academic foundation shaped his lifelong mission to serve, uplift, and empower underserved communities.
Valens is currently serving with CorpsAfrica/Rwanda in Nyamagabe District, Mbazi Sector, where he works closely with residents of the Kabuga community site. His role involves listening to community needs, co-creating sustainable solutions, and translating national development priorities into tangible, localized impact. Guided by empathy and cultural understanding, he views himself not only as a fieldworker but as a bridge between policy and practice.
Youth empowerment is at the heart of his service. Valens believes young people are powerful agents of change when given knowledge, mentorship, and opportunities to lead. His initiatives emphasize inclusive participation and capacity building, contributing directly to Rwanda’s vision for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in education, reduced inequalities, and sustainable communities.
His professional journey also includes a transformative six-month internship with the Ministry of Public Service and Labour (MIFOTRA) in Gakenke District, where he gained firsthand experience with the realities of rural poverty. This strengthened his advocacy skills and deepened his commitment to community-driven development.
Beyond his professional life, Valens is inspired by history, literature, and documentaries exploring humanity and social evolution. These interests sharpen his critical thinking and fuel his ability to propose innovative and practical solutions.
Valens embodies resilience, service, and hope. Grateful for the opportunity to serve, he remains committed to building a better future for Rwanda by empowering communities and nurturing the next generation of changemakers.
