Our story so far
Elevate has worked with hundreds of women farmers, built partnerships with fair-trade buyers, invested in programs for youth professional development, and remained steadfast in the belief that every coffee bean carries a story and every farmer deserves to be a central voice in that story.
Every initiative, every donation, and every volunteer creates a lasting impact that fuels our mission of hope and change.
We turn compassion into action, creating lasting change in communities worldwide. Through our dedicated volunteers, generous donors, and impactful programs, we have touched thousands of lives, provided essential aid, and funded critical initiatives.
Our mission
Our Mission is to uplift women coffee farmers and inspire the next generation by bridging the gap between producers and buyers, expanding access to education, mentorship, and fair markets, while promoting equity, sustainability, and leadership within Rwanda's coffee sector and beyond.
Our Story
Elevate Initiative (also known as Elevate Through Coffee) was founded by Smayah Uwajeneza, a coffee specialist, educator, law school graduate, and advocate, whose journey into this work began with her very first trip to coffee farm trek when she was just 17 years old while working as a barista in Rwanda's first specialty cafe.
Our Vision
Our vision is a future where women and youth in the coffee industry are recognized as leaders, innovators, and equal stakeholders, thriving in a sustainable coffee economy that uplifts communities, amplifies unheard voices, and nurtures careers across generations.
Our work is made possible by a dedicated community
Elevate Initiative is a purpose-driven movement dedicated to uplifting communities and unlocking human potential. Guided by the belief that compassion fuels transformation, we work to ensure that every individual has the resources, opportunities, and support needed to Elevate, thrive, and shape a brighter future.
Ways we make an impact
Education / Economic Independence / Quality Evaluation
Education
We offer workshops and ongoing training in best agricultural practices, coffee quality assurance, climate resilience, and leadership. Our programs help farmers sharpen their techniques, reduce wastage, and improve yield, while also nurturing confi dence and community leadership among women.
Economic Independence
By facilitating direct access to fair trade markets, contractual advisory during their trade negotiations, and helping women brand and sell higher value products, we enable them to earn more and reinvest in their families and future.
Quality Evaluation
We work closely with farmers on improving bean quality: from soil health and harvesting techniques through post-harvest processing. Our support includes access to lab testing, quality grading, and buyer feedback so that each harvest meets international standards.
Join Us to Brew Lasting Impact
Your support can help change lives and transform communities. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, every action counts.
Answers to our most frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions about our mission and work and quick guide to our programs and processes.
How does your donation help?
expand_moreYour gift fuels every step of our work: from delivering training, buying tools, distributing hygiene supplies, paying quality testers, to ensuring farmers are paid fairly and their work isn't interrupted. Donations also support infrastructure; like drying stations, processing equipment, or transportation that make a lasting impact.
How can I stay updated on the impact of my donation?
expand_moreWe send quarterly newsletters with stories, reports, photos, and financial updates. We also share progress via social media and annual reports. Donors can opt in to special impact-updates or even join fi eld visits (virtual or in person) when possible.
Can I volunteer with my friends / group?
expand_moreAbsolutely! Group volunteering is welcome. Whether you're organizing a fundraiser, helping with community events, or doing remote support work (graphics, translations, media), teams make a big difference. Just get in touch and we'll coordinate logistics and roles.
What portion of funds goes directly to farmers vs administrative costs?
expand_moreWe are committed to transparency. Typically, 80% of every donation goes directly to farmer programs (training, quality improvement, market access), while the rest supports operational costs (staff, transport, communications, infrastructure). Annual fi nancials are available to donors.
Where in Rwanda do you work?
expand_moreWe partner with communities in regions such as (e.g. Eastern Province, Kayonza; Southern Province, Nyamagabe; Northern Province, Musanze). We aim to expand to more districts each year and beyond borders.
