our team
PETR KOČNAR Founder and CEO
Petr Kočnar is a young professional with an art background and a passion for equality.
Originally from the Czech Republic, he previously worked in London as a retail manager, and in Nairobi, running educational programs for children on eco-farming.
Petr believes that disability is not an inability, and works toward equal opportunities for handicapped people.
Petr has taken classes in mental health care, patient manual handling and first aid, and is a certified massage therapist.
In his spare time, he loves travelling and photography.
PLACIDE NDACYAYISENGA General Manager
Placide Ndacyaisenga’s journey with Talking Through Art (TTA) began in May 2016, when he walked into the organization as a volunteer from the neighborhood. He offered his time and skills for free, driven by a desire to contribute to his community. For nearly three years, Placide worked tirelessly, bringing fresh ideas to the table and proving his dedication. His efforts were hard to ignore. Placide wasn’t just a volunteer; he was a problem-solver, a hard worker with a vision for improvement. From suggesting ways to enhance the organization’s efficiency to supporting the women in their craft, his contributions were invaluable. Recognizing his commitment, TTA offered Placide a full-time position as manager, a role in which he continues to excel. Under his leadership, TTA has grown into a more successful and sustainable organization, empowering women with disabilities and transforming lives. Placide’s personal journey has also been one of growth. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Media and Communication and is now pursuing his master’s degree in Development Studies. Alongside his work and studies, Placide is a devoted husband and father of one son. He loves reading books and watching movies, always seeking inspiration in stories—both real and imagined.
VĚRA WEGRICHT COO (Chief Operating Officer)
Věra is a truly global citizen with passion for travel and NGO work. Věra is originally from Czech Republic but spent the last 25 years traveling the world.
Věra’s background is in International psychology but spent most of her career working in NGO in USA, Japan and Rwanda. Věra believes every person deserve a chance in life despite race, gender, nationality, disability or age.
Věra is a big fan of sports, she plays tennis, volleyball, she does backcountry skiing and CrossFit.
HONORINE UWINGENEYE Area Manager
Honorine was one of the women we approached in the Southern province and soon proved to be a reliable and respected partner.
We have therefore decided to put her in charge of the operation in Kabgayi and make her an area manager.
She started weaving traditional baskets at the age of fifteen and is an experienced weaver now. She loves watching movies and listening to music.
JEANNE MUKANKURANGA TTA Staff
Jeanne came to TTA in 2015 as a member to learn how to weave baskets.
She has also been studying English well and soon became a part of TTAs team. She got employed by TTA and is in charge of teaching new members to weave, welcoming visitors and organizing TTAs gallery.
Jeanne lost her arm during a bus accident and she loves interacting with new TTA members and encourage them to join and be confident despite their handicaps.
EMILIENNE MUHAWENIMANA TTA Staff
Emilienne has joined TTA in 2015 as a member and quickly learnt how to weave baskets in a most professional way.
Her English has also improved very fast and TTA decided to employ her to be in charge of the house, teaching new members weaving and also in charge of the kitchen.
Emilienne loves welcoming visitors and she likes preparing meals for TTA members. She also loves selling our baskets at occasional markets.