This star-studded celebration gathered icons from music, cinema, fashion, business, and other prominent figures in Rwanda's entertainment scene. Amid the vibrant moments, it was the heartfelt testimony by Cyomugisha Cecile that silenced and captivated the audience. Cecile recounted how her life was drastically changed by the love and selflessness of Rwandan singer Bwiza.
Cyomugisha Cecile reminisced about the challenges she faced back in 2017, during their fourth year of high school, when Bwiza stepped in after noticing her distress over unpaid school fees. The possibility of expulsion loomed over her.
She shared, “The most unforgettable thing since 2017 is that everything I am today is because of Bwiza. As we studied together, she recognized my financial struggles and connected me with her parents, who generously stepped in to pay my school fees through secondary school.”
Cecile added, "She pulled me out of a situation I couldn’t escape alone. If I hadn’t met her, I have no idea where I’d be now. Her parents paid all my school fees, and when I finished high school, I lived with her family, as my mother was unavailable. But Bwiza treated me like one of their own.”
In an exclusive conversation with InyaRwanda, Bwiza revealed how encountering Cecile at school motivated her to take action. Cecile has now progressed to university and is pursuing a Master's degree—a testament to the opportunities afforded to her through Bwiza’s generosity.
Bwiza’s father, Karake Emanuel, reflected on his daughter’s passion for music, expressing how he always knew she’d pursue a singing career. He shared how, as a child, Bwiza would emulate American singers, showcasing her emotional and powerful voice.
He elaborated, “Bwiza grew up drawn to music, often singing and imitating American singers. Her voice was filled with passion, and you could tell this was her future. As a parent with foresight, you recognized where her talents would take her.”
Her primary school teacher, Renatha, echoed these sentiments, recalling how Bwiza's love for music extended to her classmates. She inspired her peers by singing and encouraging them to embrace music, teaching them songs that remain their favorites to this day.
During the birthday festivities, Bwiza’s parents expressed their pride in her extraordinary journey, wishing her continued success and reaffirming their commitment to nurturing values of love and generosity in her life.
“She saved me from a situation I couldn’t escape on my own,” Cecile said, expressing her profound appreciation for the meaningful impact Bwiza had on her life.
Bwiza herself reflected on how meeting Cecile during their fourth year of high school was the beginning of a transformative journey for both of them