My First Two Months with AviAssist – by Alain Dusingize
The Alain before joining the AviAssist Foundation and the Alain after two months with the Foundation are, in many ways, two different people—not physically, but in terms of perspective and mindset. You might wonder how such a transformation is possible in just two months. Well, let me share my journey.
In June 2024, after defending my final year project, I had the chance to visit Germany for a mobility exchange program between the University of Rwanda and Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences. At the time, I felt like I had reached a significant milestone. However, upon returning to Rwanda, I realized my journey was far from over. While searching for opportunities in Mechanical Engineering, I found various positions, but none aligned with my aspirations.
When the AviAssist traineeship opportunity arose, I quickly applied, driven by my passion for learning—particularly in aviation safety.
Sitting the first of 2 rounds of role play as part of the VERY competitive recruitment process with role play actor Capt. Jaco Bruggeling.
You are only as good as the people around you
After a competitive selection process, I was thrilled to secure the position at the AviAssist Safety Promotion Centre - Rwanda. Despite my excitement, I initially doubted whether my skills were sufficient for the role. Soon, I discovered that this traineeship wasn’t about being perfect but about growth. AviAssist’s welcoming environment reassured me and set me up for success.
At AviAssist, I learned that surrounding yourself with skilled and experienced individuals is the best way to grow personally and professionally. As the saying goes, "You are as good as the people around you." This has proven true for me.
It was a privilege to help organising the first EVER AviAssist social in Rwanda on my second day as trainee. The event took place at the Beausejour Hotel in Kigali and saw many participants from Universities and aviation companies in Rwanda.
So what have I gained in the first two months?
Over these two months, I have gained numerous skills, including:
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in MS Word tools (track changes, mail merge), scheduling meetings via MS Outlook and Zoom, using Google Forms and OneDrive effectively, and producing certificates.
- Organizational Skills: Preparing meeting agendas and minutes, structuring emails appropriately, creating templates and manuals, and managing social media accounts like LinkedIn.
- Time Management: Completing tasks within set deadlines without supervision.
Additionally, I have begun developing the 4Cs of the 21st century: Collaboration, Communication, Critical Thinking, and Creativity. These skills are equipping me for a professional role, whether in aviation or beyond.
I am immensely grateful to the AviAssist Foundation—its director, course coordinator, and volunteers—for their unwavering support and expertise. I also commend myself for being a quick learner. With continuous teaching and learning, I am confident this journey will bring success to both me and the Foundation.
The key handover ceremony from my predecessor Freddy Gitare was a moment to smile
Looking ahead
Want to know more about Alain or invite him for a job interview at your company or organisation in September 2025? Click here to access his LinkedIn profile and find out how to contact him.
Want to book your visit to the ASPC-Rwanda? Click here to make your booking.
Want to learn more about aviation safety, like Alain? One resource to start learning is the AviAssist Foundation aviation club playlist on Youtube. Click here to access that playlist
Or enrol in the Aeronautical Knowledge for Safety course for free. Request more information via email at info@aviassist.org