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Shaping Tomorrow Through Resilience and Excellence: The Journey of Diane Uwamariya

At the University of Rwanda, every UR student and every Mastercard Foundation Scholar in particular carries a story of courage, ambition, and transformation. In this spotlight section, meet Diane Uwamariya, 21, a second-year student and Mastercard Foundation Scholar at the University of Rwanda, College of Science and Technology, pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology (IT).

Diane’s journey is a remarkable blend of hard work, resilience, and purpose. Last year, she emerged as the top performer in the IT department at the College of Science and technology, a testament of high dedication and academic excellence.

When you speak with Diane, you quickly realize that her success is more than just academic. It reflects her character, her vision for change.

“To me, academic success is more than just grades; it’s a door to being responsible, personal growth, and an affirmation that girls can achieve incredible things as well,” Diane says. “It makes me dream of a better future and reminds me that achievement is never gender-based.”
Her study routine is grounded in discipline and structure. She begins each day with set targets, attends all lectures, and reviews content at night using active recall and additional reading. “Rather than merely memorizing, I focus on truly understanding the content. I challenge myself beyond my comfort zone and keep the bigger picture in mind,” she adds. She also participates in group discussions, as she believes learning collaboratively builds confidence.

Driven by purpose, growth and impact

Diane attributes her growth to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda. “The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is more than a scholarship; it’s a family and a constant source of inspiration,” she says. “It’s shaping me into a bold, values-driven leader while supporting me emotionally, mentally, and intellectually. With leadership training, wellness support, academic competitions, and access to valuable online resources, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has given me the confidence to pursue her ambitions with courage” she adds.

Like any student, Diane faces challenges including the pressure of maintaining high grades while managing personal responsibilities. But she tackles these hurdles with a growth mindset. “I stay active, do more research, talk to classmates, and seek the help of mentors. I also take care of my mental health by sleeping well, exercising, and staying organized.”

Her sources of inspiration are rooted in family and mentorship. “My parents are my first mentors. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program also connects us with coaches and learning platforms like Education First (EF) that supports us in English proficiency and Solid Minds Counseling Clinic for mental health, which develop us both academically and personally.”
What keeps her going, especially in difficult times, is her deep sense of gratitude and purpose. “I remind myself every day that many other people wanted this opportunity. I don’t take it for granted,” she says.

Diane’s Leadership Beyond the Classroom

Outside the classroom, Diane has participated in meaningful initiatives like the HATANA Innovation competitions organized by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda under the Scholars Entrepreneurship Fund 2.0, and the Jenga Hackathon at Carnegie Mellon University Africa. “These experiences helped me build creative thinking and problem-solving skills while expanding my network. They opened new doors and helped me grow beyond the classroom.” she says.

Diane also embraced informal leadership, including organizing group works, mentoring peers, and guiding collaborative efforts. "Explaining ideas to others not only helps them but reinforces my own understanding. Each of these little roles brings me closer to becoming the changemaker I’ve been called to be.” She notes.

With multiple commitments, time management is her secret to balance responsibilities. She carefully plans her day to prioritize academic responsibilities, while securing time for leadership and extracurricular involvement. “Doing things at the right time keeps me on track and level-headed,” she says. Through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, Diane has grown into a purposeful and confident young leader. “I’ve gained the confidence that I can lead and make a difference. Leadership is not about titles or positions, but about service and impact, and that’s the kind of leader I want to be.”