Elisabeth Muyinganyiki, a 19-year-old Rwandan child rights, gender justice, and environmental activist, demonstrates the transformative impact of investing in children's meaningful participation. She joined Children's Voice Today (CVT) grassroots groups at age 13 and became actively engaged in its programs by age 15. Through CVT's training, mentorship, coaching, and leadership opportunities, Elisabeth developed strong skills in child rights advocacy, leadership, public speaking, and civic engagement. She progressed from a grassroots group member to a confident youth leader and advocate influencing discussions on children's rights, climate justice, and youth participation at local, regional, and international levels. Today, Elisabeth actively promotes children's rights, protection from violence, and meaningful participation in decision-making processes. She works to amplify the voices of children and young people, particularly those often excluded from important conversations affecting their lives. Her advocacy extends beyond Rwanda through engagement in regional and global initiatives focused on child rights, climate action, social justice, and youth leadership. Passionate about climate justice, she advocates for recognizing climate change as a children's rights issue, emphasizing its impact on children's health, education, safety, and future opportunities. A significant achievement in her journey was serving on the Children's Advisory Committee, where she contributed to the development of the Kigali Declaration on Working Children and Youth during the Global Gathering on Working Children held in Kigali in 2023, Also contributed the to the development of general comment 26 (GC 26) United National Convention on the Child rights. Elisabeth continues to engage leaders, institutions, and communities in promoting child participation and building sustainable solutions. Her story highlights how sustained investment in mentorship, capacity strengthening, and leadership opportunities can empower young people to become influential advocates and agents of positive change.

My name is Ndacyayisenga Fabrice. First of all,now I am leading the children's grassroot group in our village with a special focus on children with disabilities. I joined the group and was warmly welcomed. My fellows explained to me what they do. At home, My parents used to think that a child with a disability couldn’t associate with others, but the children from the group came to visit me, spoke with my parents, and explained that a child with a disability is just like any other children. My parents understood and started to change their mindset. The CVT family also visited us and had conversations with us. I later started attending CVT training, where I learned many things and began to see myself as equal to others. Now, I also visit some children with disabilities, talk to them, and some of them understand and decide to join the grassroot groups.

My name is Deogene Niyomugaba. I am a strong youth leader, helping other children understand their rights and use their voices for change. My story reflects how CVT transforms young people into confident advocates, ready to shape a better future for themselves and others. I was a shy and reserved boy who rarely spoke in public. Coming from a background where children’s opinions were often overlooked, I lacked the confidence to express myself and advocate for issues that affected me and my peers. In 2021, I joined the CVT grassroots children’s group in my village. Through CVT’s training on child rights, advocacy, and leadership, I slowly gained confidence. I learned how to speak up, organize group activities, and engage with local leaders. I was particularly inspired by the organization’s motto: “Nothing for us without us.” With mentorship and continuous support from CVT staff, I started leading community dialogues on child protection and climate change. I boldness and clarity impressed many. As an example in 2022, I represented my fellows in a national children’s summit, where I shared key recommendations on education and youth participation.