The event, dubbed “The Silver Gala,” was organized by Sherrie Silver, a world-renowned Rwandan dancer and choreographer, and it brought together people from all walks of life — artists, fashion icons, entrepreneurs, politicians, and culture enthusiasts.
It was more than just a festival — it was an act of humanity and a reminder that art can be a powerful engine for change. The atmosphere reflected Rwanda’s growing journey toward elevating its creative industry to new heights.
Opening the event, Hon. Sandrine Umutoni, Minister of State in the Ministry of Youth and Arts Development, emphasized that art is a key pillar in empowering young people and driving national development.
She praised Sherrie Silver for her remarkable contribution to nurturing youth talent, saying her work goes beyond showcasing art — it opens doors and brings African creativity to the global stage.
“I want to thank Sherrie Silver for how she uses her talent to empower others, create opportunities, and elevate African art worldwide. Tonight is proof of what we can achieve when we invest in young people and treat art not just as a talent or charity, but as a cornerstone for transformation and national growth,” she said.
InyaRwanda brings you the 10 biggest highlights from this historic night.
1. Sherrie Silver Raised Over 20 Million Frw to Support Children in Her Foundation
The spirit of giving defined the evening.
Sherrie Silver prioritized supporting children through her Sherrie Silver Foundation, which trains young dancers, artists, and creatives.
While some came for fashion and others for photos, her focus was on giving hope — and the outcome was impressive: over 20 million Rwandan francs were raised to support 100 talented children in dance and music programs.
2. Eric Omondi Thrilled the Crowd with Humor Celebrating Rwanda’s Music Identity
Kenyan comedian and host Eric Omondi co-hosted the gala alongside Makeda, keeping the audience entertained with sharp humor filled with meaning. He praised Rwanda’s music culture, saying: “Rwandan artists don’t just sing to their audience — they sing with them. The emotion in Rwandan music is extraordinary.”
Omondi even sang a Meddy song and compared it humorously to Uganda’s duo Radio & Weasel, creating laughter across the arena.
3. Miss Jolly Stunned with Confidence, Style, and Wealth
Miss Jolly Mutesi turned heads in a gown designed by a Slovak fashion house. When asked about her friendship with Sherrie and her financial status, she confidently replied that her lifestyle speaks for itself.
She surprised guests by buying a PSG jersey worth 1.4 million Frw, proving once again that she’s not only stylish but bold and self-assured — even as a proud Arsenal fan.
4. The Gala Lasted Past Midnight — No One Wanted to Leave
The event started around 8 PM and went on until 1 AM, yet the energy never dropped. Performers like Knowless Butera, Ross Kana, Chriss Eazy, Massamba Intore, Chella, Juno Kizigenza, and Vex took turns lighting up the stage.
Knowless performed alongside children from Sherrie Silver Foundation, creating one of the night’s most touching moments.
Massamba closed the show with “Oya Mama We,” declaring: “This is the greatest concert ever held in Rwanda.”
5. Trace TV to Broadcast the Event Internationally
A major highlight was Trace TV’s announcement that it will air The Silver Gala across all its platforms globally — a milestone in promoting Rwandan art and culture worldwide. This recognition placed Sherrie Silver among the few Rwandans successfully taking the nation’s culture to an international audience.
6. Bwiza Crowned Best Dressed Female Artist
Fashion was a key highlight, and Bwiza impressed everyone with her elegant, creative, and confident look. Already known for hits like “Ready” and “Exchange,” Bwiza proved she’s not just a talented musician but a full-fledged artist who understands image and presence.
7. Ross Kana, Kivumbi King, and Juno Kizigenza Battled for Best Dressed Male
Among the men, fashion was equally competitive. Ross Kana, Kivumbi King, and Juno Kizigenza vied for the title of Best Dressed Male — but young designer and model Lee walked away with the award, thanks to his modern yet culturally rooted style. His confidence on the red carpet and originality earned him praise as proof that Rwanda’s youth are redefining fashion excellence.
8. Sherrie Silver’s Mother Attended the Gala
Emotion filled the air when Sherrie Silver’s mother, seated in the VIP section, watched her daughter’s remarkable success unfold.
During a performance with children from her foundation, Sherrie couldn’t hold back tears — realizing how meaningful her journey had been. Her mother even participated in the auction, helping raise more funds to support the foundation’s programs for underprivileged children.
9. Ministers Nduhungirehe and Umutoni Praised Sherrie Silver’s Gala
Top officials, including Minister of State Sandrine Umutoni and Minister of Foreign Affairs Olivier Nduhungirehe, attended the event.
Minister Umutoni highlighted how Sherrie Silver’s efforts align with Rwanda’s vision to grow its creative economy:
“Under President Paul Kagame’s leadership, Rwanda is committed to developing cultural industries as a key driver of national progress.”
Minister Nduhungirehe also applauded Sherrie’s role in nurturing children’s and youth talents, calling her work “a true representation of Rwandan creativity.”
10. Fashion Designer “Icyacumi” Won 7 Million Frw for Outstanding Creativity
To close the night, the judges’ panel awarded 7 million Rwandan francs to designer Icyacumi for creating an exceptional outfit that blended culture and modern artistry. The gesture symbolized appreciation for excellence and dedication in Rwanda’s growing fashion scene.
A Night to Remember
The Silver Gala 2025 will go down in history as a celebration of art, culture, generosity, and unity. It proved once again that Rwandan creativity is not a dream — it’s a reality shaping the nation’s future.
