HUYE, RWANDA – Woodchips and sawdust cover the porch. Children and community members are found sitting around the house, finding rest in the afternoon heat. It is clear: Bertin Karangwa is a respected man, a man who brings hope to those around him.

After losing both legs during the violence of the genocide’s aftermath, Bertin Karangwa was no longer able to walk or cultivate his fields. Even though he was left without legs and no way of earning income, Bertin didn’t allow his disability to rob him of his future. Unlike many others in his situation, this community leader rejected the life of shame and begging that was dealt to him and made the difficult decision to learn a new trade. Having never done anything like it before, Bertin took a risk and invested the little money he had in tools and wood. He had decided. He was going to learn to carve.

As Bertin’s artistic ability grew, he soon found that it was difficult to find access to markets. Living in the province of Huye, over two hours away from the capital city, and unable to make the long journey, Bertin was forced to sell his carvings for low prices to middle men who then could travel to the large craft markets.

In 2006 FH Rwanda began working with small businesses through the PPPMER program, a Rwandan Government initiative. With the help of an FH staff member, Bertin was able to receive training in financial management, product diversification, and business management.

Soon after, Bertin was able to sell his carvings for more. He was able to buy a new home. He was able to move closer to the city. He was able to complete his trainings with FH and become an independent business owner, successful in his new trade.

Picking up the small statue of Mary and her child, Bertin’s quiet strength shone through his smile, “It took me four years to learn to carve like this,” he said reflectively, his fingers following the smooth curves of the statue. “And I carved these, too.” Bertin noted, motioning to a set of prosthetic legs lying in the corner. The sharp metal weapons that took his legs and at one time his liberty are now the instruments that have allowed him to overcome. Today, his new trade has given him the ability to walk again.