In an exclusive interview with InyaRwanda, Mama Niyori opened up about her remarkable journey into the world of Rwandan cinema. She recounted the bold decision she made to leave her stable, well-paying corporate job to follow her dream of becoming an actress.
She revealed, “I had a job, but my heart was uneasy. I always felt an irresistible passion for acting, but I didn’t know where to start. Eventually, I decided to resign and search for a place to learn film acting.”
Rebecca Kagoyire (known as Mama Niyori) shared a life-changing moment when, leaving work one day without a clear plan, she met a young boy who sparked a turning point in her life.
She recalled, “A young boy randomly asked me, ‘Do you love films?’ I excitedly said, ‘Yes!’ He then asked, ‘Why haven’t you started acting?’ I admitted that I didn’t know where to begin. He asked for my phone number so he could connect me to someone who could help, and I gave it to him. Later that evening, he called and introduced me to Mama Nick.”
With the kind gesture of that boy, Mama Niyori visited Mama Nick, a mentor who operated a school focused on acting and film production. That encounter marked the beginning of her transformation as an actress. She said, “Mama Nick welcomed me, and with her guidance, I started learning about acting. She encouraged me by saying, ‘If this is what you want, you can achieve it.’ Her support became my driving force.”
Mama Niyori also shared her inspiring first encounter with Nyambo during the production of the film "Umukazana Mubi" (“The Evil Daughter-in-law”). She said, “I acted in ‘Umukazana Mubi,’ which was directed by Mama Nick. Nyambo came to support the project, and that’s how we met. I asked him for his contact details, and that action opened doors of opportunity for me.”
Determined to pursue her passion, Kagoyire recorded her voice notes at home and sent them to Nyambo, asking for work. She explained, “I told him that I am searching for roles. I also told him, even if I can’t pay you back, I promise my children will someday repay you for helping me.”
A few days later, Nyambo called her back with great news: an opportunity to work in the film "The Message," where she played the role of Nyambo’s aunt.
Over the past two years, Mama Niyori formed a close bond with Mama Nick, whom she calls an invaluable mentor, instructor, and even a guiding mother figure. Mama Nick taught her crucial skills in both acting and film production.
She emphasized, “Mama Nick has had an extraordinary impact on my career. Even now, I continue learning from her every single day. I carry her lessons with me in all my endeavors.”
Beyond Mama Nick, Niyori expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Nyambo for being the first to believe in her talent and offer her a professional acting opportunity. She said, “Nyambo, I will always hold you in my heart. You are the reason my life gained direction. Nothing can take that away from us.”
For aspiring actors, Mama Niyori advised persistence and hard work as the key to fulfilling their dreams. She shared her own story as living proof that self-belief and effort lead to genuine opportunities in life.
Mama Niyori openly thanked Mama Nick and Nyambo for helping her break into Rwandan cinema, a feat that once seemed unattainable.
Kagoyire highlighted Mama Nick’s pivotal guidance in training her in the intricate arts of film acting and directing.
Nyambo’s decision to cast Niyori in "The Message" as her debut role marked a groundbreaking moment, igniting her dreams of becoming an actress.
WATCH HERE: Full Interview with 'Mama Niyori'