About Us
We believe empowering and supporting girls in STEM shapes a better future for them and their communities.
Our Story
The idea for Starlight Africa was born in the late-night labs of engineering school. Two young women, often at the top of their classes, found their greatest joy outside the classroom — tutoring younger girls in math and science. They loved watching those girls light up when they realized STEM wasn’t just about formulas; it was about creativity, problem-solving, and building a better future.
Their university projects, focused on solving real challenges in Rwanda, deepened their belief that girls with access to STEM could become powerful agents of change. That belief became the foundation of Starlight Africa.
What started as informal tutoring sessions at a youth center in Kigali quickly grew. With one co-founder serving as a math teacher at the time, they began creating structured programs to support girls transitioning into STEM. Today, that small spark has become a movement — inspiring hundreds of girls each year to see themselves as curious, capable, and ready to lead in science, technology, engineering, and math.
Our Team
Alice Mukashyaka
Co-Founder & Executive Director
Ariane Umuringa
Co-Founder & Managing Director
Partner Schools
Starlight is in these 4 districts: Muhanga, Ruhango, Nyanza & Kigali
Schools: Groupe Scolaire Notre Dame de Lourdes Byimana (GSNDL), Ecole Des Sciences Byimana, Groupe Scolaire Saint Joseph Kabgayi, College Sainte Marie Reine Kabgayi, College Saint Jean Nyarusange, Kigoma Secondary school, Ecole des Sciences Saint Louis De Montfort Nyanza, Gihogwe Secondary School
Why Support Starlight Africa?
Starlight Africa provides experiential STEM education, mentorship, and real opportunities to hundreds of girls in Rwanda each year — while also equipping teachers and supporting our growing alumni network.
Supporting girls in STEM is not charity.
It is a strategic investment in Africa’s future.
Across our programs, 88% of girls aspire to pursue STEM careers, and 89% believe they can use science and technology to solve real challenges in their communities. Yet across Africa, fewer than 30% of women pursue STEM degrees, and many schools still lack the resources needed for hands-on learning.
Your support helps close this gap by funding mentorship, teacher training, and the tools that transform curiosity into innovation.
When you invest in a Starlight girl, you create a powerful ripple effect — one that strengthens families, schools, and entire communities for generations to come.
Join us in building a future where every girl with a dream has the tools and confidence to achieve it.