A Leap into Growth

On August 14, I landed in Kigali with few expectations—nervous yet eager to embrace the unknown. I was determined to take the first step, not just for myself but also for those who had faith in me.

Fast forward to November 16, I’m writing this on my way to Tuzza, the home that Jasiri built for us. With rain falling unusually in Kigali, R&B playing in the background (thanks to Kirubel Engidawork Kitaw playlist), and an email from the Jasiri4Africa team confirming that my team and I made it to Venture Creation, I can’t help but reflect on this incredible journey.

Life-Changing Moments

Being surrounded by 48 extraordinary individuals from Rwanda, Kenya, and Ethiopia has been nothing short of life-changing. These people aren’t just fellow participants; they’ve become lifelong friends. When I first received the acceptance letter for the Jasiri Talent Investor program, the idea of relocating for three months made me anxious. Would I fit in? Would I thrive in a new environment?

Jasiri ensured we felt at home from day one. Starting with the Jumpstart sessions to ease us in, they equipped us with resources (including the famous Jasiri Bible) and virtual team-building sessions before we even set foot in Kigali.

Arriving in Kigali, the warm weather greeted me, but questions lingered. Could I truly adapt to this new chapter? As I unpacked the Moyee coffee I’d brought from home, I reminded myself to embrace the challenge ahead.

The Journey

From intensive sessions on systems thinking to hard conversations and team formation, the experience pushed me in ways I never imagined. I vividly remember the moment our team, Plafko, came together. Initially called NDS Nigist Awish , Dennis Njogu and Selam), we evolved into Plafko—a plant food company aimed at making a difference.

Team formation wasn’t easy. It was the hardest part of the program, truthfully. Working with people from diverse backgrounds and work cultures was challenging but rewarding. It taught me the value of finding people who challenge your thinking, share your vision, and are willing to put in the work.

Now, as Plafko prepares to make its mark, I couldn’t be more excited for what’s to come. Addis Ababa, watch out—we’re coming!

What I’ll Miss

Leaving Jasiri isn’t easy. Saying goodbye to people you’ve grown close to, knowing you won’t see them for a while, is tough. Seeing some who didn’t make it while you did reminds you of the weight of this opportunity and the responsibility to make the most of it—not just for yourself but for the investment Jasiri made in you.

I’ll forever be grateful for the strength and support I’ve seen in others and for those who extended a hand when I needed it most. You know who you are.

I’ll miss the cozy Sunday mornings at Sam & Sam Coffee ( Samuel Getachew & Samuel M. Weyesa ), the lazy afternoons, and the long rides from Tuzza to Kigali. I’ll miss the kitchen staff who made sure we were well-fed, my incredible roommate, our tour guides, and the therapists who kept us grounded.

To Isidore Iradukunda, PMP , words will never fully express how grateful I am to have been part of your last cohort. Your mentorship exceeded my expectations. You made sure we had what it takes to be entrepreneurs. Thank you for believing in us and constantly pushing us. Your dedication amazed me—staying in Tuzza till midnight to help us and always being willing to listen truly impressed me.

Thank you to all the Jasiri team and coaches who supported us and made the journey great Anthony Farr Renita Gatesi Rita Uwamahoro, PMP Nadine Nkulikiyinka Dennis Mhangami - THE STARTUP COACH David Küsel Elton Mutize Biruk Yosef Zeneb @Anneth Akua Nyame-Mensah Jean Michel Habineza

The Takeaway

Jasiri taught me the power of resilience, teamwork, and the beauty of stepping outside your comfort zone. To anyone considering taking this leap—do it. It will change your life.

This is just the beginning for me and Plafko. Here’s to building a future that inspires, grows, and transforms.

#JasiriExperience #Entrepreneurship #Gratitude #VentureCreation