We all have dreams—some clear, some forgotten. But what happens when life redirects us toward something we never imagined?

This is the story of DUSABE BUSINE Israel, a Rwandan actor and director. Yes, you heard that right—Israel, once set on becoming a school headmaster, is now a proud voice in Rwanda’s growing film industry.

Born on January 18, 1980, in Nyamasheke, western Rwanda, Israel is the eldest of three children and is now a father to three of his own—two girls and a boy.

When asked about his journey, Israel shared:
“I’m an actor and a director, but I feel more like a director than an actor. People love seeing me act, but deep down, I’m a director—that’s what resonates with me most.”

As a child, he aspired to become a directeur (French for headmaster) or even a hospital director—titles inspired by the nickname his father gave him. During school holidays, he organized local parties and performed in small plays with his peers, charging 50 Rwf for entry. At the time, he didn’t think of it as art—just something to pass the time.

He also dreamed of entering politics—becoming a minister or senator—but those ambitions evolved.

In 2013, after his contract with the Global Fund ended, Israel found himself unemployed. That same year, as Israel searched for new purpose, he met filmmaker Joël Karekezi, who told him about a scriptwriting workshop.
“Writers of what?” Israel asked.
“Movie scripts,” Joël replied.

To join, he had to submit a short story. He did—and was selected as one of only ten participants for Rwanda’s first-ever screenwriting workshop.
“I didn’t know much about movies. I thought I’d end up in music because I wrote songs for my church choir. But I took the opportunity anyway.”

That decision changed everything.

The workshop opened his eyes. He learned what a script truly is and discovered a passion for film he never knew he had. He wrote his first script during that program. Later, he was selected for the Maisha Film Lab. Though his project wasn’t chosen for production, he contributed to others—acting in Crossing Line, recording sound for Kaliza, and handling technical roles in Mutoni.

Acting for the first time was nerve-wracking.
“I was so nervous I drank juice after juice and devoured pastries during endless retakes. I wanted to quit, but when I saw the finished film, I felt proud. That’s when I stepped into Rwanda’s cinema scene.”

From there, his career gained momentum. He wrote and produced Ingurane y’Ubusugi, Ikiguzi cy’amaraso, Inkomoko y’Ikinyoma, and umwana w’ikirara—his own production inspired by a biblical story.

He directed Ingurane y’Ubusugi under Nayote Films—his first directorial project.
“When people liked it, I felt amazing, even though I knew there were many mistakes. I was just happy that a dream I never knew I had was coming true.”

Israel with his firstborn daughter

From then on, opportunities poured in. He directed or contributed to Inkomoko y’Ishyano, Ubutaka bw’Amaraso, and served as assistant director on the hit film Kaliza wa Kalisa. He also directed The Bridge of Christmas, a feature set to release in December 2025.

When asked which film he loved most, he named The Bridge of Christmas, citing its generous budget, extended timeline, and stress-free environment. He also highlighted The Sacred, feature owned by a british shot across three countries:
“The experience was unforgettable—traveling, overcoming language barriers, adapting to different climates.”

Notable works in his portfolio include:

Ikiguzi cy’Amaraso

Indoto (15-seasons of the series)

Inzozi (MassCom series)

Agahinda ka Liza (author and director)

Ikinyoma from Bahafrica (feature film director)

My Insight (his own film)

The Sacred (feature film)

Igeno, The Bishop, Ejo si Kera, and Kaliza wa Kalisa as an assistant director.

Israel assisting Director NIYOYITA Roger in KALIZA WA KALISA

As for challenges, Israel pointed to tight timelines, limited budgets, and actors who struggle to embody their roles.
“Working in Dar es Salaam was also tough due to the language barrier and weather.” He added.

Israel credits Joël Karekezi for introducing him to the industry and expressed heartfelt gratitude:
“Joël changed my life. I’m also grateful to my workshop peers, MISAGO Nelly Wilson, Canal+ for supporting Rwandan cinema, and even YouTubers for keeping our industry alive.”

He entered the film world in 2013 and began directing in 2014. His advice to aspiring filmmakers is simple:
“If you’re passionate about something, find the knowledge and skills—it’s a formula.”

When asked about the secret to his success, he replied:
“I always finish what I start. I manage my team and ensure delivery.”

And his dream?
“Seeing my own movie on Netflix and watching political leaders truly understand the value of cinema. That’s the goal.”


From shy storyteller to an award-nominated director, Israel’s journey reflects the growing heartbeat of Rwanda’s cinema. His films don’t just entertain—they inspire a new generation to believe in unexpected dreams.