About Us
Opten Foundation: Empowering Youth, Transforming Tourism & Conservation
Opten Foundation is a Rwanda-based NGO that equips underprivileged youth with skills, mentorship, and job opportunities in tourism and conservation. Through industry mentorship, hands-on training, and VR learning, we bridge the gap between education and employment.
We partner with eco-lodges, national parks, conservation groups, and tour operators to create career pathways in sustainable tourism and environmental protection. Our mission is to scale impact across Africa, fostering future leaders in conservation and responsible travel.
We are trusted by
Empowering youth, preserving nature—one opportunity at a time.
Joel Gasare
Core
01.
Motivation
We empower underprivileged youth with skills, mentorship, and job opportunities, transforming their futures through tourism and hospitality.
02.
Vision
To be the leading mentorship-driven training platform for youth in tourism and hospitality across Africa.
03.
Mission
To bridge the education-employment gap by providing mentorship, skills training, and job opportunities.
04.
Leadership
Fostering responsibility, initiative, and mentorship to develop future industry leaders.
05.
Self Improvement
We promote continuous learning, adaptability, and resilience for career success.
06.
Self Awareness
Helping youth identify their strengths, passions, and career paths through mentorship.
07.
Confidence
we build confidence through hands-on training, mentorship, and immersive learning. Youth gain the skills, experience, and industry exposure needed to lead, communicate, and thrive in tourism and conservation.
08.
Life Skills
We equip youth with essential life skills—communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability—ensuring they thrive in tourism, conservation, and beyond.