About
My Story
My name is Yanna, and Rwanda has been my home since 2021.
How it began
I first came to Rwanda through my work with TRAIDE and Resilience, where I supported private sector development, entrepreneurship, and business growth initiatives. What was initially a professional assignment quickly turned into a much deeper connection with the country.
Over the years, I have travelled extensively across Rwanda, built lasting friendships, and developed a strong professional network spanning business, investment, government, hospitality, and entrepreneurship.
Business and growth
Building Businesses and Partnerships
After my work with TRAIDE and Resilience, YaLuc was founded in 2024. The first assignment of YaLuc was a full time engagement with MoneyPhone, a Rwandan fintech company focused on expanding access to finance for farmers and small businesses.
As Head of Business Development, I spent two years leading partnerships, fundraising, business growth, and strategic collaborations. During this period, I helped the company grow its customer base, expand its lending portfolio, secure new partnerships, and attract funding that enabled the company to reach more entrepreneurs and farmers across Rwanda.
Through this work, I developed strong relationships across the public and private sectors, as well as within the international development community.
Why YaLuc
The right person, the right introduction
Over the years, friends, colleagues, and visitors have often told me the same thing:
"You always seem to know the right person."
Whether someone is looking for a trusted local partner, exploring an investment opportunity, planning a visit, or simply trying to understand how Rwanda works, I enjoy helping people make meaningful connections.
YaLuc was created to bring together everything I have learned while living and working in Rwanda. It combines local knowledge, professional experience, and a strong network to help others discover opportunities, navigate the country with confidence, and make valuable connections.
Timeline
A few milestones
2021
Moving to Rwanda
Moved to Rwanda through my work with TRAIDE and Resilience, supporting private sector development, entrepreneurship, and business growth initiatives. What began as a professional opportunity became a long term commitment to the country, its people, and its business community.
January 2024
Founding YaLuc
Founded YaLuc, an independent consultancy focused on business development, partnerships, fundraising, and market entry support. Through YaLuc, I help organisations, investors, and entrepreneurs navigate opportunities in Rwanda and across East Africa.
February 2024 to April 2026
MoneyPhone
As part of my consultancy work through YaLuc, I joined MoneyPhone as Head of Business Development. During this engagement, I led fundraising efforts, built strategic partnerships, and supported the company's growth. Together with the team, we expanded the lending portfolio, increased outreach to underserved entrepreneurs, and strengthened relationships across the financial ecosystem.
2026
Launching Rwanda Unlocked
After years of living and working in Rwanda, I noticed a recurring pattern. Many visitors arrived for the wildlife, scenery, and culture, but left inspired by the country's energy, entrepreneurship, and opportunities. Rwanda Unlocked was created to bridge those worlds. It combines travel experiences with local business insight, helping visitors discover Rwanda while also understanding the people, sectors, and opportunities shaping the country's future.
Today
Connecting People and Opportunities
Through YaLuc and Rwanda Unlocked, I continue to help travellers, businesses, investors, and organisations navigate Rwanda with greater confidence. Whether someone is exploring the country, considering an investment, building partnerships, or looking for new opportunities, I help connect people to the knowledge, networks, and experiences that make those opportunities possible.
Looking Ahead
Rwanda is one of the most ambitious countries I have ever experienced.
East Africa, including Rwanda, is often associated with development and aid. Yet what I see every day is a region full of entrepreneurs, growing businesses, innovation, and opportunity—especially in Rwanda.
My goal is to help people see the opportunities Rwanda offers, not just as a place to visit, but as a place to invest, build partnerships, grow businesses, and be part of a remarkable story of growth.
"The more time you spend in Rwanda, the more possibilities you discover."