The project
At Shift Up For Rwanda, we have been supporting TLCA since 2022 with financial and in-kind donations, campaigns, and ongoing dialogue and visits.
Rwanda is a country with a troubled history. The 1994 genocide claimed countless lives and left orphans in its wake. Florent Nsengumuremyi was one of the lucky survivors of his family. Thanks to the kindness of an old man, he was given a bicycle that gave him access to education and a promising future. It was a moment that changed his life forever.
In 2019, Florent founded the Twin Lake Cycling Academy, an initiative that gives street children access to education. At the same time, they train on their bikes on the streets of Rwanda with discipline and determination for their personal development and a better future.
In 2020, one of his protégés was even selected for the Rwandan national team.
In 2023, 17 children aged between 10 and 22 are already part of the TLCA.
Who we are
On-site commitment
Florent is the founder of the Twin Lakes Cycling Academy in Musanze, Northern Rwanda.
A street child himself, he was left on his own by the genocide and was able to find his way with the help of others and the fascination of cycling. Now, through his academy, he is giving others the same opportunity – with selfless dedication, a great sense of humour and a huge dose of love for people and cycling.
Founding
Shift Up For Rwanda e.V. was founded in 2022 by professional cyclist Daniel Gathof and photographer Don Ailinger.
While competing in the Rwanda Epic, a mountain bike stage race, they got to know Florent, his story and his children. It was immediately clear to both that they could and should help. Anyone who works as hard as Florent does every day to change the future of children deserves not only recognition, but active support.
Our approach
Our mission
By developing young cycling talent and supporting disadvantaged children and young people in Rwanda, we aim to create lasting change. Our mission is to create opportunities and empower communities through education and sport.
Our vision
Our vision is a world where every child, regardless of background, has access to education and sporting opportunities. We nurture talent and build community through cycling to create sustainable change in Rwanda and beyond.
Our supporters
Lassen wir Zahlen sprechen
Unser Fortschritt spornt uns an, unser Bestes zu geben. Wir freuen uns, dass wir wachsen und Tag für Tag mehr helfen können.
