Benebikira Sisters

Non-Profit Foundation

Background

The Benebikira Sisters Foundation is an addition to our growing list of pro bono projects, and when this organization approached us, we were truly blown away by their dedication and contribution to the people of Rwanda. The Foundation is the philanthropic arm of a group of Rwandan Nuns that have been a positive pillar in the community for almost 100 years. The Foundation's mission is to increase awareness of the sisters while helping them fund their various missions throughout the year (building schools and other infrastructure). Their truly inspirational story is a stark contrast to the stories of genocide and turmoil that most outsiders associate with Rwanda, and because of this, we knew that we wanted to be a part of this endeavor. One of the biggest issues that any startup foundation faces is how to convey in real terms how the foundation will make a tangible impact in the lives of others. Once this is established, fundraising is about finding people who identify with the mission and goals of the organization. [whitepenny] worked with BSF to solidify and personalize this tangible impact.

Approach

After many sessions with the members of the foundation, [whitepenny] arranged to get information directly from the Sisters themselves, and it was this interaction that did the most to frame what the foundation means to Rwanda and how it directly affects its citizens. The Sisters spoke of a new Rwanda growing from the roots that their schools and others like them are creating. They spoke of the progress they've seen and of their students' ideals and vision for the future. In BSF's logo, collateral, and website, [whitepenny] attempted to capture this newfound optimism and spirit.