Prosper Ishimwe

As an experienced business educator with extensive expertise in international trade and commerce, I am deeply passionate about empowering entrepreneurs, fostering vibrant communities, and addressing critical challenges such as economic revitalization. My unique background and insights, including authorship of the compelling memoir "Neither Tutsi, nor Hutu: A Rwandan Memoir," position me to offer unparalleled value to aspiring business leaders.

We Rise Business Accelerator Manager - Local First Arizona - Phoenix Arizona

(2021-05)

• Craft a cutting-edge business accelerator curriculum tailored to unleash the full potential of emerging entrepreneurs
• Deliver dynamic, hands-on workshops that empower businesses with practical skills and actionable strategies for immediate growth
• Provide exclusive, one-on-one office hours offering personalized guidance to propel businesses towards their unique goals
• Orchestrate a network of expert mentors and facilitators, ensuring a robust support system that drives unparalleled success for program participants

Business coach & outreach Manager - Social Enterprise Greenhouse - Providence, Rhode Island

(2020-02 - 2021-05)

• Forge dynamic partnerships with community organizations to amplify our reach and impact, creating a robust network of support for budding entrepreneurs.
• Launch compelling outreach campaigns to attract and inspire new entrepreneurs, showcasing the transformative potential of our program and igniting their passion for business success.
• Deliver cutting-edge business planning workshops for our Incubator and Accelerator programs, equipping participants with the essential tools and strategies to turn their visions into thriving enterprises.
• Provide personalized, high-impact coaching sessions to nurture each entrepreneur's unique potential, offering tailored guidance that catalyzes growth and drives sustainable success.

Business Development Program Director - Rhode Island Black Business Association - Providence, Rhode Island

(2019-07 - 2020-02)

• Expertly managed and strategically oversaw the Small Business Assistance and Microloan programs, empowering local entrepreneurs to thrive
• Skillfully supervised staff and consultants, fostering a dynamic team environment that drives results
• Designed and delivered engaging business planning workshops, equipping participants with essential skills for success
• Orchestrated powerful connections between entrepreneurs and seasoned coaches and mentors, catalyzing growth and innovation
• Developed and maintained comprehensive work-plans and budgets, ensuring optimal resource allocation and financial health
• Strategically planned and cultivated growth areas for activities, staying ahead of market trends and maximizing opportunities
• Forged strong partnerships with key stakeholders and donors, amplifying our impact and reach in the community
• Crafted compelling proposals and insightful reports, effectively communicating our vision and achievements to secure support and funding

Fellow - U.S. Baha'i Office of Public Affairs - Washington, DC

(2018-07 - 2019-07)

• Spearheaded crucial data analysis and research initiatives, providing invaluable logistical support for high-impact Congressional advocacy. Focused on pressing global issues including gender equality, human rights, sustainable development, and global governance, driving meaningful policy changes.
• Led and facilitated the influential Washington International Criminal Court Working Group, fostering collaboration and advancing international justice initiatives.

Research Intern - Africa Center for Strategic Studies - Washington, DC

(2016-05 - 2016-08)

• Expertly monitored and analyzed defense spending trends, providing critical insights to the Dean of Academic Affairs for strategic decision-making.

Research Intern - Mercy Corps - Portland, OR

(2016-01 - 2016-05)

• Conducted in-depth research on complex global issues, including international conflicts, violent extremism, and climate change as key drivers of migration, contributing to the organization's understanding of these critical challenges.

Peace-Building Officer - Never Again Rwanda - Kigali, Rwanda

(2013-07 - 2014-06)

• Orchestrated and optimized activities of the Peace-Building Institute, driving impactful initiatives for conflict resolution and community healing.
• Conceptualized and executed high-profile media conferences and workshops, fostering dialogue on critical issues of conflict resolution and civic participation.
• Demonstrated exceptional project management skills by developing and maintaining comprehensive plans and organizational budgets, ensuring efficient resource allocation and project success

Business Incubator Manager - Junior Chamber International - Kigali, Rwanda

(2011-10 - 2014-06)

• Expertly crafted and meticulously maintained project management plans and organizational budgets, ensuring optimal resource allocation and financial efficiency
• Spearheaded innovative business plan competitions, leveraging deep industry knowledge to evaluate and nurture promising entrepreneurial ventures
• Designed and led transformative Business Planning trainings, empowering start-up entrepreneurs with essential skills for success
• Orchestrated high-impact conferences on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), fostering invaluable networking opportunities and knowledge exchange
• Developed and implemented strategic work-plans and budgets, driving organizational growth and operational excellence
• Identified and cultivated high-potential growth areas, propelling the expansion of our impactful activities
• Forged and nurtured strategic partnerships with key stakeholders and donors, amplifying our reach and impact
• Implemented robust progress tracking systems, delivering comprehensive and insightful progress and annual reports that showcase our achievements and financial stewardship

Language & Cross-Cultural Facilitator - U.S. Peace Corps - Kigali, Rwanda

(2011-01 - 2011-12)

• Empowered American volunteers to drive transformative community development projects, master the intricate nuances of Kinyarwanda (the national and local language), and cultivate deep cultural awareness and sensitivity

Research Supervisor - RTI International (U.S. AID Contractor) - Kigali, Rwanda

(2010-02 - 2010-12)

• Led and empowered a team of eight dedicated researchers, orchestrating the collection and analysis of critical data on early grade math and reading assessments, driving actionable insights to revolutionize educational strategies

Master of Arts - Global Policy & International Trade - University of Maine (2017-05)

Bachelor of Arts - English & Education, hons. - University of Rwanda (2010-05)