Post-traumatic growth (PTG) posits that adversity has the potential to result in transformational change that can manifest in a variety of ways. While PTG does not aim to minimize the challenges associated with suffering, it highlights the potential for meaning-making following pivotal life-events. While there have been examples of this phenomena on an individual level, rarely are these applications discussed on a macro-level.  

Rwanda is a beacon of hope for the rest of the world with regards to their response to the `1994 genocide against the Tutsi, where between 600,000 and 1,000,000 people were killed by friends and neighbors within 100 days. The Rwandan government shaped a thoughtful, organized, and intentional recovery that capitalized on the strengths of Rwandan culture that were embedded before colonization. The fruits of this response are captured by the safety, cleanliness, and highly connective country who identifies as "One Rwanda." In essence, the national identity captures the reality that we are all human regardless of ethnic or racial identities.  

Our Rwanda, A Portrait of Post-Traumatic Growth, is the first episode in a series of storytelling trainings that were designed to increase relatability of concepts in mental health. Utilizing original video content in conjunction with traditional presentation methods, this episode will highlight strength, resiliency, and the results of Rwanda's exemplary response to the genocide. Post-traumatic growth and resiliency are discussed in the context of people who shared their stories with us, along with mental health professionals who live and work in Rwanda.