Every Misiyo product sold gives one month of health insurance to someone in Rwanda.

Giving back is our purpose, our why and our mission. We're currently supporting over 2,500 people every month with health insurance coverage in Rwanda.

Home Fragrance That Gives Back

Misiyo means 'mission' in the Rwandan language; it's in our DNA and it's been our purpose from the start - to create candles + home fragrance products that feel good and do good.

Since 2010, our founder has personally been volunteering with and supporting a non-profit organization in Rwanda called Irere Foundation and has seen the difference being made firsthand.

By providing health insurance to those in need through this local partnership in Rwanda, everyone we support is able to live a healthier life. We don't believe in handouts; we believe in equal opportunity and raising up those who may need a helping hand.

We believe our everyday choices and the things we enjoy can make a positive difference in the world and be a force for good.

Those supported with health insurance are able to live a healthier life. They are empowered in their education, career and family life, making our world a more beautiful and free place

Our Partner: Irere Foundation

Founded and run by James + Jackie, Irere Foundation has been working with disadvantaged families, orphans and widows around Rwanda for over 15 years.

Along with providing health insurance, some other programs they run are:

  • providing food for those dealing with short term food insecurity
  • overseeing farming cooperatives to build community and revitalize local vendor markets
  • providing financial aid for education
  • training people in vocational skills like sewing and styling hair

FAQ

How does your giveback program work?

For every product we personally make—whether it’s a candle, reed diffuser, or essential oil blend—we fund health insurance for someone in need in Rwanda. It’s built into the heart of our business.

Does every purchase make an impact?

Yes! Every single product we make ourselves—like our candles, reed diffusers, room sprays, and essential oil blends—contributes directly to our giveback by funding health insurance in Rwanda. Purchases of other products in our shop don’t directly fund the giveback, but they help support our small business, cover operating costs, and allow us to keep the mission going. So in a big-picture way, every purchase truly helps.

Why Rwanda?

Our roots are connected to Rwanda through personal relationships and past volunteer work since 2010. It’s a place that means a lot to us, and where even small efforts can make a life-changing difference in access to care.

What kind of health insurance is provided?

We partner with a local non-profit to find the people who are in need of coverage and then we fund the coverage through Rwanda’s national public health care system, which includes access to doctors, hospitals, and essential medications.

Is this a one-time donation or ongoing support?

It’s ongoing. We commit to providing full annual coverage for each individual we support, not just a short one-time gesture. Our goal is sustainable, long-term impact.

Can I learn more about the people you support?

Yes, you can learn more about some of those we support here. We are also working on some new blogs in order to share their stories - coming soon!

How is your giveback administered?

Irere Foundation (formerly known as The River) is a recognized charitable organization within the country of Rwanda. Our giveback is tallied throughout the year and then paid yearly in the spring. Each person supported will receive twelve months of health insurance coverage starting in July of that year. Rwanda has a leading health care system within Africa and their community-based insurance program offers care to everyone within their country using a tiered premium approach. Those we support are families and individuals who provide for themselves, but who may not be able to afford their premiums for the year due to circumstances beyond their control.

Misiyo's founder and a woman who has received health insurance from us walking on a dirt road in a rural area in Rwanda

Home Fragrance That Smells Amazing + Does Good

Misiyo Candles

Misiyo Candles

Reed Diffusers

Reed Diffusers

100% Naturally Scented - Misiyo Candle Co

Essential Oil Scents