Sylvie Uwiragiye is a visionary leader, humanitarian, and the Founder and Executive Director of Fondation Uwiragiye — one of Burundi’s most dedicated nonprofit organizations advancing the dignity, inclusion, education, and socio-economic empowerment of persons with visual impairments and vulnerable communities.

Her story did not begin in a boardroom. It began in the streets, in hospitals, and in the hearts of communities too often left behind.

Since 2008, Sylvie has been on the frontlines of social change — championing grassroots initiatives that reached street-connected children, struggling families, and marginalized communities across Burundi. Through years of direct, hands-on engagement, she uncovered a painful and persistent reality: visually impaired children were being systematically excluded from education, denied specialized support, and robbed of the opportunity to reach their full potential.

She refused to accept it.

In 2018, Sylvie took decisive action and founded Fondation Uwiragiye — not as a charity, but as a movement. Her vision was bold and uncompromising: to dismantle the barriers that deny vulnerable children their rights and to build a rights-based, inclusive ecosystem where every child, regardless of ability, can thrive with dignity and purpose.

Under her transformative leadership, the Foundation has grown into a powerful force for change. Today, Fondation Uwiragiye drives institutional advocacy, expands educational access, strengthens community-led empowerment, and shapes social protection frameworks that create lasting impact. Through strategic alliances with international donors, government institutions, and civil society, Sylvie continues to architect scalable, sustainable programs that are changing lives across Burundi.

A servant leader in the truest sense, Sylvie Uwiragiye leads not for recognition — but for results. Her life’s work is anchored in one unshakeable conviction:

« Inclusion is not an act of charity. It is a fundamental human right — and the foundation of every thriving society. »