17 Websites To Find Freelance Jobs In Rwanda: A Complete Guide

A Step-by-Step Guide To Getting Freelance Jobs in Africa

You’ve taken the first step by identifying your skills and committing to freelancing. Now comes one of the biggest challenges: finding the right platform to sell those skills, especially as a freelancer in Africa. It’s all about striking the right balance—ensuring you don’t undervalue your services or overcharge potential clients.
One common concern for new freelancers is whether geographical location limits their opportunities. The good news is, it doesn’t. African freelancers are actively competing and succeeding on global platforms.

Maybe as a freelancer in Rwanda, you’ve spent hours searching the internet and trying to find the best platform to freelance, but you’re still not sure if you’re on the right path. Or perhaps your current strategy isn’t yielding results. Securing reliable freelance gigs shouldn’t be this overwhelming.

What to Consider Before Choosing a Freelance Website
Top 17 Freelance Websites
Conclusion

That’s why we compiled this list of 17 freelancing websites to help you work smarter and win gigs more efficiently. From broad marketplaces to specialized platforms, these sites could save you hours of research.

As an independent contractor, the responsibility of finding clients and closing deals is all yours. That’s why it’s crucial to know where to invest your time. You need to be sure that your earnings are secure and that the platforms you choose align with your freelance goals.

What to Consider Before Choosing a Freelance Website

Before committing to any freelancing platform, it’s essential to understand the job market it serves. This helps you gauge whether your skills match what the platform’s clients are seeking.

Here are some key factors to keep in mind.

Platform Fees and Pricing

Freelance platforms act as a middleman between you and clients, and they charge for this service. For instance, Upwork charges up to 10% of every freelancer’s earnings, and it’s $11.95/month for Guru. Understanding each website’s charge range is essential to deciding if the fees are worth it.

Payment Security

One of the worst situations for a freelancer is needing help to access payment after delivering a project. Platforms like Upwork use Escrow to ensure you get paid once the job is completed, giving you peace of mind.

Skill Categories

Does the platform feature a broad range of skills or focus on specific areas? Does the site align with your services, whether general services or a specialized skill set?

Quality of Clients

Choose platforms that attract serious, reputable clients. This will increase your chances of securing meaningful work and ensure that you deal with professionals.

Top 17 Freelance Websites

Startup Websites

Startups often offer faster hiring processes than established companies, so startups might be the way to go if you’re in a hurry to find work. Although working for a startup may involve taking on multiple responsibilities, the fast pace of startups can provide valuable experience and more rapid job placement. Here’s where you can find startups that hire freelancers.

Wellfound

Previously known as AngelList, it is a leading platform designed to connect startups with job seekers eager to join the world of startups. It has earned a strong reputation among freelancers for its dedication to linking innovative, high-growth companies with talented individuals ready to contribute to their exciting projects.

Wellfound offers a specialized environment where freelancers can find roles that align with their skills while working with some of the most promising startups. The platform’s focus on startups means you’re not just finding a job—you’re stepping into a work scene where your contributions can have a significant impact and where opportunities for growth and learning are abundant.

Y Combinator

Y Combinator, primarily known as an accelerator for startups, also offers job-seeking tools for freelancers and professionals through their Work at a Startup platform.

Here’s how to get started:

Visit Y Combinator’s Platform and navigate to Work at a Startup hosted by Y Combinator.
Click on the “Sign up” button at the top-right corner of the page to create an account. You can use your email or your Google account.
To complete your profile, provide essential information about yourself, including your work experience, skills, and interests.
Upload a professional photo and tailor your bio to highlight your strengths in startup environments.
After filling in your profile, select the roles you’re interested in (e.g., engineering, design, marketing, etc.)
Indicate whether you’re looking for remote, in-office, or hybrid roles.
Once your profile is set, browse available startup job listings.
Filter jobs based on your preferences, location, and field of expertise.
Apply directly to roles that fit your profile by clicking “Apply” for each job.

Get Personalized recommendations
Y Combinator’s platform may offer personalized job recommendations based on your profile. You can also explore other opportunities directly through their “Hiring” or “Companies” sections.

Trustpilot

While TrustPilot is widely known as a company review site, it holds a hidden gem for job seekers looking to find startup opportunities. Here’s how you can use Trustpilot to find freelance opportunities.

How to Use Trustpilot for Finding Startup Jobs

Visit the Trustpilot website, where you’ll find many company reviews and ratings.
Navigate to the “Categories” section. Here, you can select the niche you’re interested in—whether it’s beauty, finance, healthcare, or any other industry.
Once you’ve chosen a category, you’ll be presented with a list of companies within that niche. This list often includes startups alongside more established firms.
Click on the companies listed to visit their websites. Many of these companies, including startups, may be hiring, and you can discover their job openings directly on their career pages.
Don’t be discouraged if you don’t find a job immediately. Many companies update their job listings regularly, so it’s worth checking back or setting up alerts if available.

Websites For General Skills

Upwork

Formerly known as Elance-oDesk, it is one of the most popular freelancing platforms in the world. Upwork hosts more than 18 million freelancers and 5 million clients. It’s a go-to platform for freelancers across all industries. Africans, including Rwandans, are increasingly joining the ranks, making the platform more diverse and competitive. This platform has the potential for a significant income Increase when you master proposal writing; with your proposal, you position yourself strategically for employers. The platform tracks your achievements and consistency with badges, helping you improve your profile’s visibility over time. Your progress is showcased to clients, and the more consistent you are, the more Upwork pushes your profile.

Upwork is also a community-centric platform that values its users’ interests. You can connect with like-minded freelancers, and community leaders are available to help with queries or provide guidance when needed.

A Rwadan freelancer with a query on payment issues

How to Sign Up

Visit upwork.com and create an Account.
Click “Sign Up” and choose Google, Apple, or email.
Upwork will prompt you to select the option to create a freelancer account.
Provide information about your skills, experience, and the types of jobs you’re interested in. Include a professional photo and a detailed bio.
Upwork requires identity verification to keep the platform secure. Follow the steps to verify your ID.
Once your profile is approved, you can apply for jobs by submitting proposals to clients.

Fiverr

Fiverr is a popular platform where freelancers offer services starting at $5. It’s ideal for those looking to start freelancing and build a portfolio quickly. This platform provides a secure payment process. Once you, the client, have reviewed your work, the money automatically goes to your account.

How to sign up on Fiverr

Go to Fiverr and create an Account.
Click “Join” in the top-right corner and Sign up using your email, Google, Facebook, or Apple account.
Upload a professional photo and write a brief description about yourself, highlighting your skills and experience.
Select the services you want to offer, such as graphic design, writing, marketing, or another category.
Ensure your profile has a video introduction and well-written service descriptions to attract clients.

The Popular Industries on Fiverr

Fiverr allows freelancers to sell Gigs. A gig is the service you offer to clients on the Fiverr platform.

Set Up Your First Gig.

Create a compelling Gig title and description, and choose relevant categories.
Set your pricing options (basic, standard, premium) and include delivery times.
Regularly update your Gigs and provide excellent customer service to get good reviews and improve your ranking.

Once your Gig is ready, click “Publish.” It will automatically become visible to potential buyers on Fiverr, and they can start placing orders.

Toptal

Toptal (Toptalent) is a highly selective freelance platform that connects top freelancers with clients for premium, long-term projects. This platform recruits experienced freelancers with specialized skills. Toptal’s rigorous vetting process, including skill reviews and interviews, sets it apart. This may be challenging, but once you ace the review and get in, it proves you are not just a freelancer but among the top 3% of freelancers in your niche out of over 200,000 freelancers who apply yearly.

How to sign up on Toptal

Visit the Toptal website and apply to join.
Click on “Apply as a Freelancer” in the top-right corner to begin the process.
Fill out an application form with details about your experience, qualifications, and areas of expertise (such as software development, design, finance, etc.).
Pass the Screening Process: The process involves multiple steps, including an English language and communication test, timed skill tests, and a live screening with a Toptal expert.
You’ll also be required to complete a project relevant to your skillset to demonstrate your proficiency.
Once you’ve passed the screening, you’ll be accepted into the Toptal network.
From here, you can start applying for premium freelance projects with some of the world’s leading companies.
Start Working on Projects.

Toptal offers long-term, high-paying jobs, so expect to work on more complex projects than other platforms.

Stay active and maintain a high-quality standard of work to keep up with Toptal’s expectations.

Guru.com

Guru is a freelance platform that caters to professionals across various categories, including web development, design, writing, and more. One notable feature of Guru is that there are fewer or no scam jobs because they follow a thorough screening process to identify such jobs. Getting accepted to freelance on Guru is simple because they no longer use skill tests to vet freelancers.

How to sign up.

Click “Sign Up” in the top-right corner.
If you don’t have an account, use your email to sign up or log in using your LinkedIn or Facebook account.
Select “I am a Freelancer” to offer your services.
Fill out your personal information and set up your profile.
Add a professional picture and a detailed bio highlighting your skills, experience, and expertise.
Choose your freelance categories based on your skills, such as design, writing, programming, etc, and Include portfolio samples to showcase your past work to potential clients. Create a Services Page:
Guru has a “Services” feature, where you can create specific service offerings for clients to browse.
Add titles, descriptions, and pricing to your services, making it easy for clients to see your offer.
Guru allows you to set up your payment methods during the sign-up process. You can be paid via PayPal, wire transfer, or direct bank deposit.
Once your profile is complete, start browsing job postings. Send tailored proposals explaining why you’re the right fit for the job.
Once you secure a project, manage milestones and payments through Guru’s platform.

Guru uses a WorkRoom feature that helps freelancers track their projects and communicate with clients in one place.

Freelancer.com

Freelancer.com is one of the largest freelance marketplaces in the world. It offers job opportunities in various industries, such as writing, design, marketing, and more. It’s an ideal platform for freelancers at any level.

How to sign up

Go to Freelancer.com and Create an Account
Click “Sign Up” in the top-right corner.
Use either Facebook, email, or Google to create an account. Add details about your skills, expertise, and professional background.
Upload a profile photo and complete the optional profile sections to stand out.
Include a portfolio with past work examples to show your capabilities.
Ensure your profile clearly states your services and highlights your best skills.
When signing up, Freelancer.com asks you to select relevant skills. Choose skills that align with the jobs you want to pursue, such as content writing, graphic design, web development, or marketing.
To build trust with clients, verify your identity.
Once your profile is ready, browse the job listings on Freelancer.com and start bidding on projects that suit your skillset.
Write custom proposals that explain how you can meet the client’s needs.
When you win a project, you can manage tasks and communicate with clients through Freelancer.com’s dashboard.

Note: Freelancer.com offers verification badges for freelancers who submit identity proof or pass skill tests. Payments are made through the platform, and funds can be withdrawn via PayPal, bank transfer, or other available methods.

We Work Remotely

WWR (We Work Remotely) is a popular site for freelancing and full-time gigs. Creating an account on this platform is optional. You can start the application once you hit the job link.

If you want to create a profile, here is how to go about it.

Go to the We Work Remotely website.
You can search for remote jobs without creating an account. Use the search bar or browse by job categories such as marketing, design, customer support, programming, and more.
We Work Remotely doesn’t require job seekers to create accounts. However, it’s recommended that they set up a profile or save jobs they’re interested in for easier access later.
If you want to apply directly to jobs, you can go to the job listing of your choice, follow the “Apply” button, and submit your application directly on the employer’s website or through email.
Scroll to the bottom of the homepage, and you’ll find the option to sign up for email job alerts by entering your email address. This way, you’ll receive notifications when new jobs that match your interests are posted.
Once you find a job that fits your skills and experience, click on the job title to read the description and follow the application process detailed by the employer.

Unlike other platforms, We Work Remotely focuses more on connecting job seekers to listings than building extensive profiles. It’s an excellent platform for freelancers looking for remote jobs in various fields.

Niche focused Websites

Webflow Experts

Webflow Experts is a marketplace where Webflow users can find freelancers specializing in Webflow design and development. If you’re a web designer or developer, this platform is a great way to get clients. To sign up on Webflow Expert, you must have a Webflow account showcasing your portfolio with at least 3-5 websites you have built using Webflow.

How to Sign up

Visit the Webflow Experts Page and Sign Up for a Webflow Account. You must have a Webflow account to join the Experts platform.
On the Experts page, click “Apply” and fill out the application form.
You’ll need to include your portfolio, experience level, and a description of your expertise (design, development, or both).
Webflow reviews applications to ensure that only top-tier freelancers join their platform. Make sure your portfolio is impressive and represents your best work.
If your application is approved, you’ll be listed in the Webflow Experts directory, where clients can contact you for design and development projects.

Wix Marketplace

Wix Marketplace is a platform where Wix users can hire freelance designers and developers to build their websites. If you have experience working with Wix, you can offer your services to clients via the Marketplace.

How to sign up on Wix

If you don’t have an account, sign up at Wix.com by clicking “Sign Up” and entering your details.
To apply as a Wix Marketplace expert, you’ll need a portfolio of websites you’ve created using Wix.
Go to Wix Marketplace.
Ensure your portfolio showcases a variety of projects, including business websites, blogs, or e-commerce stores.
Go to the Wix Experts application page and submit your profile for review.
You’ll need to provide your portfolio and details about your experience level and expertise (e.g., design, SEO, coding).
Wix will review your application to ensure it meets their standards.
If approved, you’ll become a Wix Partner and be listed in the Wix Marketplace, where clients can find you for design, development, and marketing projects.
Once listed, clients can reach out to you through the platform, and you can start bidding on projects.

Lemon.io

Lemon.io specializes in matching freelance developers with startups. To sign up, freelancers must undergo a vetting process.

How to Sign Up:

Go to the Lemon.io website.
Click “Apply as a Developer.” You’ll find this option on the homepage.
Provide your name, email, and relevant information about your skills and experience.
Take the Assessment: Lemon.io requires freelancers to complete a coding challenge or skill test, depending on their area of expertise.
Pass the Interview: After passing the coding test, you’ll undergo an interview to verify your experience and professionalism.
Get Approved: If you pass all the steps, you’ll be added to the platform and receive client offers for projects.

Ensure you have a well-organized portfolio and demonstrate strong communication skills during vetting.

Outsourcely

Outsourcely, aka All Remote Jobs, is a broader platform that connects freelancers in various fields (not just tech) with businesses. It focuses on long-term remote work.

How to Sign Up

Sign up for a free freelancer account on the home page by clicking the “Sign Up” button and selecting the freelancer option.
Provide details about your skills, experience, and availability. Uploading a resume is recommended, as it enhances your profile’s visibility.
Once your profile is complete, you can start browsing the job listings or wait for companies to contact you directly based on your profile.
Apply to job postings that match what you can deliver. Companies may also contact you if they find your profile suitable.

Note: Be specific when filling out your profile, as employers often search for freelancers based on niche skills and expertise.

Rwandan-based Websites

Job in Rwanda

Job in Rwanda connects qualified professionals to employers. It operates on job adverts, where freelancers can easily browse for jobs. Internship roles are available here.

Steps to sign up:

Go to Job in Rwanda and create an account
To register as a freelancer, click the “Sign Up” button.
You can upload your CV and fill in personal details, including your education, work experience, and skills.
Use the search bar for freelance or remote jobs matching your skills. You can also filter by industry or job type.
Once you find a job, follow the application instructions provided by the employer. Some may require you to send an email or apply directly through the platform.

Kora Job Portal

Kora is a job portal developed by the Rwandan Development Board that caters to job seekers and employers in Rwanda. It provides a platform for job listings across various industries, such as IT, healthcare, finance, engineering, and more, helping Rwandan professionals find opportunities in both the private and public sectors.

How to Sign Up on Kora for Rwandan Freelancers:

Click on “Sign Up” at the top right corner. Then, provide basic information such as your name, email, and password.
Go to the Kora job portal.
Add your work experience, education, and skills. Upload a professional CV or resume.
Once your profile is complete, you can browse job postings by categories or keywords.
Click on a job title to view the full description and apply directly through the platform.

Kora is a valuable platform for Rwanda freelancers seeking contract work or full-time remote opportunities.

Rwandajobs.com

Rwandajobs.com is a job portal specifically focused on providing employment opportunities in Rwanda. It lists various jobs across sectors, including government, private companies, NGOs, and international organizations. Employers use the platform to find talent, and job seekers use it to find jobs that match their skills.

How to Sign Up on RwandaJobs.com

Navigate to the homepage and click on the “Register” button.
Go to the RwandaJobs.com website.
You’ll be prompted to select whether you’re a job seeker or an employer. Select the “Job Seeker” option.
Provide your full name, email address, and phone number, and create a password.
You may also need to specify your job preferences, such as the category, location, and experience level of your desired job.
RwandaJobs.com allows you to upload your CV to make your profile more visible to employers. A well-structured and up-to-date CV will increase your chances of being contacted by potential employers.
After setting up your profile, browse jobs by categories or use keywords to find jobs that fit your skills and experience.
When you find a job that suits you, click on the listing to view more details and submit your application through the platform.

Rwandajobs.com is ideal for freelancers and full-time job seekers seeking opportunities in Rwanda’s various industries and regions.

LinkedIn and LinkedIn Services Marketplace

You might be wondering how LinkedIn made it to this list. Perhaps you’ve ignored your LinkedIn profile for so long that you barely remember your password. Now is the perfect time to dust it off and refresh your profile because LinkedIn is one of the easiest ways to grow as an African freelancer, no matter your niche. With an updated and active profile, you could soon land gigs just by daily post,

Think of LinkedIn as your digital storefront, displaying real-time samples of the projects you’ve completed or are currently working on. You can drive traffic to your profile, build a network, and engage with a larger community of freelancers by posting about and discussing your niche. Optimizing your LinkedIn profile allows you to strategically market your skills and get in front of potential employers.

Recruiters and employers actively use the LinkedIn Services Marketplace to find talent. They can filter across industries and directly reach out to freelancers whose work ethic aligns with their business goals without the need for open job postings. This targeted approach makes LinkedIn an ideal tool for freelancers seeking new opportunities.

How to Sign Up on LinkedIn:

Visit LinkedIn.com and click on “Join now.”
Enter your email, name, and password to set up your profile.
Add your work experience, skills, education, and certifications. Upload a professional profile header and write a compelling headline describing your work. Include a summary highlighting your essential skills, expertise, and freelance services.
Follow companies and individuals in your industry.
Post relevant content and engage with posts to increase visibility.
Join LinkedIn groups relevant to your freelance niche to connect with potential clients.

How to access the LinkedIn Service Marketplace

If you already have a LinkedIn profile, you can easily access the LinkedIn Services Marketplace from the “Work” of your profile.
Go to your profile and look for the option to “Provide services.”
Click “Add Services” and fill in details about your services (e.g., graphic design, content writing, etc.).
Add a description of your services, including pricing details if applicable.
Specify the industries and types of projects you’re open to working on.
Once your services are listed, recruiters/clients can easily access your profile when searching for freelancers or services in your niche.

Conclusion

No freelancing platform is better than another; it all comes down to finding the one that aligns with your specific freelance goals. You can maintain accounts on multiple platforms, diversifying your opportunities and reaching different types of clients. Ensure you can consistently meet the expectations of each client across all platforms, ensuring success and satisfaction in your freelance journey.

Finally, mobile versions of these websites are available, ensure to familiarize yourself with the site interface easily and remember to turn on notifications on the mobile app to access job postings on the go.

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