GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN: COMMEMORATING BERNADETTE BIZIMANA

On Sunday the 10th of January, we received tragic and shocking news concerning the loss of a beloved member of our ASYV family- Bernadette Bizimana. She was taken to King Faisal hospital, Kigali in the late hours of Saturday evening, where it was later confirmed she had passed away as a result of heart failure. At the young age of 32, she was taken from us far too soon.

Over the past four years, Bernadette worked selflessly with the Health & Wellness centre -helping to improve the lives of so many children in the Village. Working as a psycho-social expert, she was particularly close with those in the Indatwa and Imena grades. But Bernadette was more than just an employee to all of us here at ASYV. She was a sister, an auntie, and a great friend.

Last Monday, hundreds gathered to commemorate the life of Bernadette at a church service that was shortly followed by her burial. The great number of people who came to mourn her pays testament to the extent at which she was adored. Those who came to pay their respects gathered together to sing songs, say prayers and lay down flowers in her honour.

We will remember Bernadette as a kind, caring and intelligent woman who brought joy and happiness to all who met her. Her fun personality and wonderful smile gave her a certain aura that made people feel good whenever in her presence.

On behalf of everyone in the Village, we wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to Bernadette's family. She was a cherished member of our community that will be sorely missed, but never forgotten. Her spirit will continue to live on through all of us at ASYV.

May her graceful soul rest in eternal peace.