What happens when women’s empowerment, financial inclusion, and holistic well-being are placed at the center of national development? In Rwanda, the results are clear: sustained economic growth, stronger communities, and expanded opportunity for women at every level.

For our founder, Francine LeFrak, and the Francine A. LeFrak Foundation, this is not just a theory, it is a model in action.

During our recent visit to Rwanda, Francine LeFrak witnessed firsthand how strategic investment in women’s education, entrepreneurship, and leadership is driving measurable impact. Rwanda has emerged as a global example of how empowering women fuels inclusive economic development, aligning closely with the Foundation’s mission to advance physical, mental, and financial well-being.

At Village Urugwiro, Francine LeFrak met with President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame to discuss Rwanda’s continued commitment to people-centered growth. Their leadership reflects a national strategy that prioritizes women’s empowerment, financial access, and long-term investment in human capital.

This visit also reflects a relationship between Francine LeFrak and Rwanda that spans more than two decades.

Through that relationship, the Francine A. LeFrak Foundation has supported initiatives that expand economic opportunity for women, including Same Sky, which provides dignified work and global market access for women artisans. Today, Same Sky continues to grow, supporting financial independence and stability for women across Rwanda.

In partnership with Indigo Africa, women entrepreneurs are gaining access to training, mentorship, and resources that allow them to scale sustainable businesses. These efforts contribute to a broader ecosystem of women’s empowerment in Rwanda, where opportunity is expanding across sectors.

The Foundation’s impact is also visible in education.

At the FAWE School, young women are gaining access to quality education and leadership development. Through the Bridge2Rwanda LeFrak Friedberg Scholars program, students are accessing higher education and global career pathways. These programs reflect a shared commitment between Rwanda and the Francine A. LeFrak Foundation to invest in the next generation of women leaders.

At the core of this work is a simple but powerful belief: well-being is power.

For Francine A. LeFrak, that means supporting women across three pillars, physical, mental, and financial well-being. In Rwanda, these pillars are not abstract ideas. They are visible in thriving communities, growing businesses, and confident young women stepping into leadership roles.

The work of the Imbuto Foundation, led by First Lady Jeannette Kagame, further reinforces Rwanda’s leadership in advancing women’s empowerment. Together, these efforts are creating a model of inclusive growth that is both scalable and sustainable.

What makes the partnership between Rwanda and the Francine A. LeFrak Foundation so impactful is its foundation in shared values. This is long-term, collaborative work focused on measurable outcomes and lasting change.

As Rwanda continues to grow as a global leader in women’s empowerment and economic development, the work of Francine A. LeFrak and her Foundation highlights what is possible when investment in women is prioritized.

Rwanda is not only a story of resilience. It is a blueprint for the future.

And for the Francine A. LeFrak Foundation, it is a powerful example of how advancing women’s empowerment can drive economic growth, strengthen communities, and create lasting global impact.

‍