At just 25, Christelle Kwizera embodies innovation, leadership, and a profound commitment to social impact. The Rwandan mechanical engineer and social entrepreneur is the founder and managing director of Water Access Rwanda, an award-winning enterprise revolutionizing water access across Africa. Since its inception in 2014, the organization has provided clean, reliable water to over 126,000 Rwandans through a network of 95 boreholes and INUMA™ purified microgrids.
Kwizera’s vision extends beyond water distribution. With an eye on environmental sustainability and social justice, she established Water Access Rwanda not only to combat water scarcity but to address youth unemployment—creating jobs for 96 individuals and empowering local communities. Her innovative work has earned global acclaim, including the prestigious Africa Entrepreneurship Award—the first-ever for a Rwandan enterprise—and recognitions such as the EDF Pulse Africa Award, WeEmpower SDG Challenge, and INCO Woman Entrepreneur of the Year.
Christelle’s leadership journey began early. A graduate magna cum laude in Mechanical Engineering, she later earned a distinction in her MSc in Climate Change Finance and Investment from the University of Edinburgh. Her stellar academic background is matched by a passion for advocacy and youth empowerment. She actively serves on various boards dedicated to climate change, youth initiatives, and sustainable development, emphasizing accountability and shared value. As a regular speaker on national and international platforms, she amplifies the voices of African youth and champions gender equity.
Beyond her entrepreneurial pursuits, Christelle is a Resolution Fellow, a Sierra Club GPEP Fellow, and a MILEAD Fellow, accolades that reflect her dedication to environmental justice and leadership. She also co-founded the Emerging Leaders and Entrepreneurs of Rwanda, a platform fostering innovation and advocacy among young people.
Kwizera’s impact reaches deep into the community. As the former Chief Creative Officer of Isaro Foundation, she promoted a culture of reading and writing in Rwanda. Her collaboration with organizations like UNFPA further underscores her influence in health, gender, and social development sectors.
