Together, we can build a world where every displaced student has the chance to thrive.
About Us
Bridging the Gap to Higher Education
RiseNext is a mentoring program that bridges the knowledge gap for forcibly displaced high school and university students to access higher education opportunities. We connect refugee and displaced students in Rwanda with mentors who guide them through every stage — from university applications to career readiness.
Our Mission
To equip forcibly displaced students with the knowledge, mentorship, and resources needed to access and thrive in higher education.
University application support
Financial aid navigation
Career readiness coaching
Winners of the 2024 CIEE UNHCR Student Challenge — backed by a $50,000 grant to launch our pilot program in Rwanda.
Donate Now4%
Displaced students reach university today15%
UNHCR's 2030 enrollment target$50K
CIEE grant awarded to RiseNext38
Countries in the global challengeWhy Us!
A Program Built by Students, for Students
Founded by four Kigali-based university students who experienced the barriers firsthand, RiseNext offers a multi-stage mentoring model tailored to the unique challenges faced by refugee and forcibly displaced students in Rwanda.
Pre-admission: computer literacy, prerequisites & applications
Early university: financial aid, academic & social support
Pre-graduation: career coaching & professional networking
What People Say About RiseNext.
Hear from the students and mentors whose lives RiseNext has touched.
RiseNext gave me not just guidance, but hope. I went from not knowing how to apply to university to receiving my admission letter — all with the support of my mentor.
RiseNext Mentee
Refugee Student, Kigali
Mentoring through RiseNext has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Seeing displaced students unlock their potential and secure university placements is incredibly fulfilling.
RiseNext Mentor
University Student, Rwanda
This program is exactly what displaced students in Rwanda need. The mentors understand our challenges and provide practical, actionable guidance every step of the way.
