Divine Uwera
Class of 2025-2026
Makerere University, 2021
Biomedical Laboratory Technology
Capstone Project Abstract:
Leap of Faith Technologies is advancing the Illuminare Initiative, a global project that seeks to transform Catholic churches into digitally enabled hubs for education, healthcare, and community development. By combining satellite connectivity, AI translation, and digital collaboration tools, the initiative reimagines churches as spaces where communities can access essential knowledge and services.
This capstone project will focus on developing a sustainable model to support the growth of the initiative, including strategies for deployment, community engagement, and impact measurement. The goal is to create a scalable approach that empowers underserved populations with improved access to healthcare, education, and technology.
Why did you choose ESTEEM?
With a background in Biomedical Laboratory Technology from Makerere University, I have worked as a biomedical lab scientist and manager in hospitals and clinics, where I witnessed firsthand how outdated diagnostic technologies impact patient outcomes. In 2024, I collaborated with Biohub and Goodlife Ivuriro Clinic on the Remoscope project, an AI-powered device that rapidly diagnoses malaria and provides detailed results in real time. This experience deepened my passion for healthcare innovation and showed me the urgent need for scalable, modern solutions. While I bring strong technical expertise in biomedical sciences, I realized I needed the entrepreneurial skills to translate ideas into real-world impact. I chose ESTEEM because it bridges science and business, equipping me with the tools to transform my passion for health innovation into scalable solutions that truly change lives.
What do you hope to do after ESTEEM?
After completing ESTEEM, I hope to join a biotechnology or healthcare innovation company focused on developing affordable and scalable diagnostic tools. With my background in biomedical laboratory science and the entrepreneurial skills gained through ESTEEM, I want to help translate emerging technologies into practical solutions, making essential healthcare tools accessible to underserved populations.
What do you like to do in your free time?
When I’m not working, I love cooking my favorite traditional Rwandan dishes and experimenting with new recipes I learn from YouTube. I also enjoy traveling, long walks, spending time with friends, and catching up with my family back home in Kigali.