From CNN to "I Do": How One GEI Exchange Led to a Life-Changing Journey in Rwanda
Sometimes, the most meaningful journeys begin with a single moment of inspiration. For Melanie, an American certified counselor, that moment came on a quiet evening in September 2017 while watching CNN International. A spotlight story about a half-Jamaican, half-Rwandan woman living in Kigali caught her attention, sparking a curiosity that would ultimately change her life.
"The images they showed of the city looked so beautiful," Melanie recalls. "Something about it just drew me in." Little did she know that six months later, an email from GEI would transform that spark of interest into reality.
A Structured Bridge to Adventure
In March 2018, through her professional network with the National Board of Certified Counseling, Melanie received news about GEI's study abroad opportunity in Kigali. The program offered exactly what she needed: a structured, professional development experience that aligned with her field.
"What I want to really make clear is that GEI made it comfortable for me to go," Melanie emphasizes. "I would have never been brave enough to do it myself. The fact that it was a structured trip within my field made all the difference. GEI built that bridge for me."
Impact That Transcends Borders
What started as a professional development opportunity quickly evolved into something much more meaningful. On her very first night in Kigali, a chance meeting led her to what would become her favorite restaurant in the city. That evening, she met someone who would introduce her to a local family – a connection that would grow deeper than she could have imagined.
"I started by simply bringing bags for the kids," Melanie shares. "Now, I sponsor the family. They're not even sponsors to me anymore – they're family. I've witnessed the development of their personal lives over the years."
A Love Story Unfolds
Among these meaningful connections was one that would change her life forever. During her stay, Melanie met her future husband. What began as a friendship grew stronger through annual visits – Melanie returned to Rwanda every year since that first trip, even bringing her mother and sister on subsequent visits to share the magic she'd discovered.
The relationship continued to blossom virtually until her future husband migrated to the United States. In January 2022, he proposed, and by June, they were married, bringing their cross-continental love story full circle.
Creating Lasting Impact
Melanie's story exemplifies the transformative power of stepping out of your comfort zone through structured, purposeful travel. What began as a professional development opportunity through GEI evolved into a journey of personal growth, cultural connection, and lasting impact.
"It was absolutely life-changing," Melanie reflects. "This program didn't just help me make an impact – it changed the entire trajectory of my life."
Today, Melanie's connection to Rwanda continues to grow stronger. Her story stands as a testament to GEI's mission of fostering meaningful cross-cultural connections that transcend traditional boundaries of study abroad programs.
Ready to Write Your Own Story?
Learn more about GEI's programs and how you can start your own life-changing journey. Visit our programs page or contact us to take the first step toward your own transformative experience abroad.
