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Entries in rwanda (30)

Sunday
Mar282010

William

Our driver first – William didn't speak much that day he picked us up from the airport in Kigali. Though kind and courteous, he was focused on his work. It was this moment at breakfast in Innocent's home, when he opened up and shared his stories with us. We exchange emails every now and again. I miss my friend.

Monday
Feb152010

Living on Purpose

I'm inspired by confident individuals who embrace their passion, think creatively, and act with courage despite fear and challenges too numerous name. Just seeing this image of Dativa, an entrepreneur and technologist speaking about her fledgling business in Kigai, Rwanda fires me up. This is a woman I admire.

Friday
Feb052010

Kwizera Alfred's Hope

Picture Hope: Kwizera Alfred, Musician from LittlePurpleCow Productions on Vimeo.

Five minute video interview.

Alfred came in and out of Alex and Goreth's home during our stay in Rwanda, sharing tea and stories with us. And when he spoke in a soft voice about his dream of sharing his music with the world, I could feel his unwavering faith in that dream. A faith that has been tested by the loss of his parents, lack of finances, and a commitment to help provide food, shelter, and school tuition for his brothers and sisters. "So how do you hold on to hope?" I wondered aloud during one of his stories.

"You have to trust. I trust everyone, and believe that God is there for me – even when I have no one and nothing," he replied. And then he placed his trust in me, and insisted that I accept his bible as a gift just before we left Rwanda. Packing that bible was difficult for me. I don't deserve it. And as the months have passed, seeing that bible beside my bed has been a gentle reminder of Alfred's presence. A visible sign of his faith. There's not much that I can do for him, but share his light with you. And hope you'll share it too. 

Friday
Jan222010

To Go Unnoticed

If I could have one superpower, I'd have the power to slip and out of an invisible state. I'm perfectly content being the silent witness in a room such as this beauty shop in Rwanda, but as a photographer it takes time to attain this status. First, I always connect. When I walk in a room, I'm open. I reveal myself as much as possible. I ask questions. I listen. I ask permission. I give my subjects time to evaluate and accept my presence because I know they need to trust me in order to forget about me.

Sunday
Jan172010

A Man of Many Words

Much of our time in Rwanda was spent with Michel, Goreth's brother. His English was near flawless. Because of this, he played the role of translator throughout our visit. He joined us as we toured the home of Juvénal Habyarimana, the past president of Rwanda who was shot down in a plane crash igniting the Rwandan genocide, and he explained the genocide to me. He followed us many miles to the village in Kizarakome and kept me company on the front porch under a dark sky. And he climbed with us to the top of the mountain where we prayed under the tree with big leaves and he translated Innocent's soulful story. I appreciate the role he played for us during our time in Rwanda so much. His instant friendship. His focus on the voice of others. A man of many words.