Empower.Educate.Transform.
Health Affairs for Youth Initiatives (HAYi) is a youth-focused social impact organization committed to advancing youth health, gender equity, and empowerment. We address the social determinants of health affecting vulnerable, marginalized, and differently-abled youth, ensuring they have the knowledge, services, and opportunities to thrive.
Our Story
From a creative awareness campaign to a comprehensive youth empowerment movement, HAYi has grown to transform lives and advance health equity.
Don't Die Young Initiative
HAYi began as a creative arts initiative called "Don't Die Young", launched by our founder to raise awareness among youth about risky behaviors such as drug abuse, teenage pregnancy, school dropout, and exploitation.
Health Affairs Initiative (HAI)
As the campaign grew, it became clear that awareness alone was not enough. Many challenges facing youth are rooted in poverty, limited education, social exclusion, disability discrimination, economic hardship, and structural inequalities. The initiative evolved to address these social determinants of health, transitioning from creative advocacy to structured health education and youth empowerment.
Health Affairs for Youth Initiatives (HAYi)
While pursuing a Master of Science in Global Health Delivery at the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE), our founder met fellow global health professionals and medical doctors who shared the same commitment to health equity and youth empowerment. Together, they transformed the vision into HAYi, a comprehensive platform dedicated to empowering young people to overcome structural barriers and claim their health, voice, and future.
Our Mission
To promote inclusive youth health and well-being through education, advocacy, innovation, and community-driven programs, ensuring that all young people regardless of gender, background, or ability have equitable access to resources to thrive.
Our Vision
A Rwanda where all young people are healthy, empowered, and socially included, with access to quality health services, supportive environments, and economic opportunities.
Our Values
At HAYi, our core values reflect our dedication to impactful, inclusive, and innovative work. These principles guide every aspect of our mission and shape the way we serve communities.
Inclusivity
We ensure all young people, regardless of gender, background, or ability, have equitable access to resources and opportunities.
Integrity
We operate with honesty, transparency, and ethical practices in all our programs and relationships.
Empowerment
We equip youth with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to shape their own futures and make informed decisions.
Innovation
We embrace creative problem-solving, leveraging technology and new ideas to tackle complex health challenges.
Collaboration
We build strong partnerships with schools, government, NGOs, and communities, recognizing that shared goals lead to stronger impact.
Meet Our Team
Meet the founding members driving HAYi's mission to empower youth, advance health equity, and create lasting impact.
Samuel Habimana
Founder & Executive Chairperson
A visionary leader with expertise in education, health care management, business, and global health delivery. He has extensive experience designing, implementing, and scaling health and youth empowerment initiatives. HAYi delivers innovative programs that improve youth health, promote gender equity, and strengthen communities.
A passionate advocate for adolescent health, mentorship, and inclusive leadership, he works with schools, partners, and civil society to create lasting impact for young people.
Founding Members
Samuel Habimana
Founder & Executive Chairperson
A visionary leader with expertise in education, health care management, business, and global health delivery. He has extensive experience designing, implementing, and scaling health and youth empowerment initiatives.
A passionate advocate for adolescent health, mentorship, and inclusive leadership, he works with schools, partners, and civil society to create lasting impact for young people.
Ms. Rachel Murekatete
Founding Member
Public health professional with expertise in SRHR, gender equity, and youth empowerment. Supports program implementation and community engagement.
Dr. Dukundane Alexandre
Founding Member
Clinician and health professional providing technical oversight for youth health programs and interventions. Passionate about improving access to reproductive and adolescent health services.
Dr. Mickline Kelly Mutoni
Founding Member
Medical doctor with experience in clinical practice and global health initiatives. Provides guidance on SRHR and health program implementation.
Mr. Muhire Gustave
Founding Member
Global health advocate specializing in gender, SRHR, and marginalized communities. Leads initiatives promoting inclusive health policies and youth empowerment.
Aime Emmanuel Musabyimana
Founding Member
Communications lead managing advocacy, public engagement, and strategic campaigns to ensure HAYi's programs reach youth effectively.
Dr. Christelle Giraneza Uwantege
Founding Member
Clinician and SRHR advocate, also CMO of URUKUNDO Initiative. Supports health education, youth mentorship, and program outreach.
Dr. Simeon Turatsinze
Founding Member
Medical doctor and global health professional with expertise in maternal health, research, and health system strengthening. Contributes to evidence-based interventions and mentorship.
Odette Nishimwe
Founding Member
Global health professional and researcher focused on innovation, scalable health solutions, and improving operational and communication processes.
Wellars Mvuyekure
Founding Member
Public health and Gender/SRHR specialist focused on advancing health equity, project management, and community-driven interventions.
Dr. Florence Dusabimana
Founding Member
Midwife with expertise in maternal and neonatal health. Leads training programs and supports interventions to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality.
Yves Ndayambaje
Founding Member
Professional in academic support, project management, and partnerships, driving efficiency, sustainability, and equitable outcomes.
Janviere Iradukunda
Founding Member
Procurement and logistics specialist expanding expertise in communication management, supporting organizational operations and impact-driven strategies.