“I encourage people to join Habitat to see if they may have chance to be homeowners.”

Michel Ntirurashira and his wife, Izabayo Josephine, are on a transformative journey with Habitat for Humanity, aspiring to provide a stable and secure home for their large family. As dedicated parents, Michel and Izabayo have committed themselves to supporting their children’s education and overall well-being. “We’re eight people in this family living together, helping each other to see if we can have a better future,” Michel shares. Their dedication to each other is a testament to their strength and resilience.

Living in a cramped and inadequate space, the family has faced numerous challenges. “The rooms are small, the conditions are not really respected,” Michel explains. Despite these hardships, they have managed to stay united and supportive of one another. Michel and Izabayo’s children, ranging in age from 6 to 20, are all pursuing their education, which is a primary focus for the family. “We try to work hard to support the rest of the family to see if they may complete their school,” Michel emphasizes, showcasing their unwavering commitment to their children’s futures.

The acceptance into the Habitat for Humanity program brought immense joy and relief to the family. “I will be very happy,” Michel recalls, reflecting on his initial reaction. The journey of earning sweat equity, although challenging, has been a rewarding experience for them. Their hard work and determination have brought them closer to achieving their dream of homeownership.

Looking ahead, Michel and Izabayo are excited about the positive changes that a Habitat home will bring to their lives. “Absolutely, it’s going to change,” Michel states confidently. They envision a future where their home will be a place of stability and comfort. “I am building to have a house,” Michel asserts, highlighting the fundamental need for a secure dwelling. For Michel & Izabayo, a home is where they can dwell and build a better life together.