This post features student writing.

Today, July 4th, marks the 25th anniversary since the end of the Rwandan Genocide. On such a commemorative day, our group was given time away from volunteer services, celebrating by relaxing and further discussing the events that occurred a quarter of a century ago.

This day isn’t just a time to mourn those lost, but to rejoice in the progress Rwanda has made, reflect on the movement forward, and remind the community that no one is alone. There is only one group of people—Rwandans—and each and every person carries that title.

Bearing the balance of solitude and celebration in mind, our group took the day to travel to Kingfish Beach Resort, a lakefront pool and hotel. Below are some pictures and memories from our many travels that led to our final destination at Kingfish. From picking up a straggler engineer to eating Greek food while overlooking the beautiful capital Kigali, there was a lot of opportunity to explore the vast mountains and history that exists in Rwanda. At the end of the day one message was evident: life brings many experiences, ranging from sudden loss to blossoming friendships, all of which this beautiful country commemorates.

— Amelia & Taji