Today, T4 Education announced that the Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village’s (ASYV’s) own Jean Claude Nkulikiyimfura is a finalist for the Africa Education Medal. The award honors individuals who have displayed exceptional impact and leadership in the field of education in Africa.

“JC has fostered a peaceful environment of healing and growth through his passion, empathy, humility, and genuine care for others,” says Charlize Theron, founder of ASYV’s longtime supporter the Charlize Theron Africa Outreach Project. “[His work] is helping to build the foundation for a vibrant community of young changemakers that will undoubtedly lead to a bright future for Rwanda… We couldn’t be more thrilled that such an amazing human is being considered for this award.”

The nine other finalists include leading professionals from Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa, and Uganda. We are honored that JC’s leadership both in the Village and in launching the Educational Resilience Program, our teacher training initiative impacting 60,000 kids across Rwanda, has earned ASYV inclusion among this distinguished group.

"Jean Claude is a visionary leader who is making a positive impact on the education system in Rwanda," says Gaspard Twagirayezu, Rwanda’s Minister of State, Primary and Secondary Education. "He has invested his talent in healing the hearts of those who have experienced trauma, preparing them for the challenges of the ever-changing world and creating a lasting impact on the country's future generations."

Please join Charlize, Gaspard, and the ASYV staff and board in congratulating JC for this incredible accomplishment!