Saranda Olive Umutoni, widely known as Saranda, is a transformative figure in Rwanda’s cinema industry. More than just an actress, she is a leader, a poetess, and an advocate for artistic expression. Through her work in film, poetry, and leadership, she inspires young girls to pursue their dreams fearlessly. Saranda’s journey proves that talent, when nurtured with discipline, can lead to remarkable success.
Early Life and Background
Born on July 12, 2000, in Nyagatare, Rwanda, Saranda grew up in a family of six children—three girls and three boys. Her entry into the film industry was serendipitous. In 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, she was simply helping a friend with a film project when she was unexpectedly offered a role. What began as an act of support turned into the defining moment that launched her acting career. The experience ignited a passion she hadn’t realized she possessed, setting her on a path to success in Rwanda’s entertainment industry.
Acting Career
Saranda made her acting debut in The Secret, a project that introduced her to the world of filmmaking. Her breakthrough came when audiences and industry professionals began to notice her talent, leading to roles in several notable films such as Maya, Indoto, Behind, and Bridge of Christmas, which is set to be released on December 25, 2025.
Reflecting on her journey, Saranda shared, “I never imagined myself as an actress. Initially, I was just supporting a friend, but once I stepped into my first role, I realized my potential. When my first film gained recognition, people began stopping me on the street, expressing admiration for my work. It was overwhelming but fulfilling.”
However, fame brought its own set of challenges. “Gaining popularity can be difficult because many people start living a fake life when they become famous. But I was fortunate to have mentors like Eric Ngabikwiye and MIZERO Yves, who guided me and kept me grounded,” she said.
Saranda vividly remembers her first day on set. “The cameras, the lights—I felt like I was in a hospital. It was tense, and I was shy. The sound aspect was also difficult for me to adjust to, but over time, I got used to it.”
Favorite Roles and Challenges
Among all the roles she has played, Saranda considers Behind and Bridge of Christmas her favorites. “In Bridge of Christmas, I played Anny, a free-spirited and unpredictable girl—completely different from my usual serious personality. I love roles that challenge me because they push me beyond my comfort zone.”
She finds the most demanding roles to be the ones where she has to completely transform into a different personality. “Becoming someone entirely different is difficult, but it’s also exciting. I enjoy the process of learning, adapting, and growing as an actress.”
The Secret to Her Success
When asked about the key to her success, Saranda emphasized one crucial trait: discipline.
“Whatever you do, without discipline, you won’t succeed. Hard work, choosing the right people to work with, and having passion—all these things are rooted in discipline.”
Education and Leadership
Saranda studied at Fawe Girls School Gisozi, where she pursued Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science (MPC). She later earned a degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management at Akilah Institute and is currently pursuing a second degree in Public Relations at Mount Kigali University.
Beyond acting, Saranda is a poetess and a leader. In 2024, she was selected for the prestigious Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) program, chosen among 100 participants out of 8,000 applicants. During the program, her project Therapoetry, which focuses on emotional healing through poetry, ranked first. She is now a YALI alumna and serves as Rwanda’s ambassador for the initiative, using her influence to promote artistic and mental Saranda was also honored to be one of 30 participants selected from 2,000 applications across all African Union countries for the 6th youth capacity building workshop on gender equality in education by the African union CIEFFA.
Future Goals
Saranda credits Eric Ngabikwiye and Yves MIZERO for introducing her to the film industry and continuing to mentor her. Looking ahead, she is determined to build on her success by venturing into filmmaking. “I want to protect what I have built and take it further. My goal is to write, direct, and produce my own movie, telling stories that matter.”
Advice to Aspiring Talents
To those with dreams in the entertainment industry, Saranda offers this advice: “If you know you have talent, stick to it. Many people make a living from their talents. But above all, put discipline first in everything.”
Gratitude and Legacy
At the end of the interview, Saranda expressed deep appreciation for those who have supported her. “I want to thank my family, Eric Ngabikwiye, ZACU Entertainment, and CINE_Rw for trusting me and believing in my talent.”
Saranda’s journey from an accidental actress to a prominent figure in Rwandan cinema is a testament to resilience, discipline, and passion. As she continues to expand her horizons, she remains a beacon of inspiration, paving the way for future generations in the entertainment industry.
