They say that what’s meant for you will always find its way. Sometimes, destiny doesn’t show up right away—but it never forgets. That truth shines through the story of Clemence NAHIMANA, a woman whose talent, persistence, and vision have helped shape Rwanda’s cinema landscape.
Early life & education
Born on June 26, 1990, in Kirehe, Rwanda, Clemence NAHIMANA—also known by her character names Feruje, Shenge, and Mama Rufonsina—never imagined that one day she’d be telling stories that reach thousands.
As a child, her dreams were rooted in service.
“I wanted to become a journalist or a nurse,” she recalled.
“But when we grow up, we’re assigned school combinations. I was placed in Languages and Literature. I was sad at first, but I accepted it and aimed to study journalism in university.
But even there, fate had a different plan.
“I didn’t get journalism either. Instead, I was offered Education and Drama. That’s how I found the world of art I now live in.”
The beginning of her career
Clemence started out writing for Musekeweya, Rwanda’s beloved radio drama.
“I’ve been writing it for 10 years. I’m not the only writer, but I’m one of them.”
Her passion for storytelling eventually led her into film, where she contributed to multiple notable projects, including Ibwiza, Shenge Series, and Indahiro y’Ubuto.
Breakthrough with “Ibwiza”
Clemence’s defining moment came in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, when Art Rwanda–Ubuhanzi, supported by Imbuto Foundation, launched the Creative Industry Recovery Fund.
“I had a story idea. I found someone to help me develop it, and we produced Ibwiza, a feature film. It wasn’t my very first film, but it was the first one that really reached people.”
Ibwiza premiered at the Mashariki African Film Festival and later went on to win Best Independent Film from Africa at the Best Films Awards Festival in the UK.
“What touched me the most was that Imbuto Foundation believed in my vision. They funded and supported a story very different from what I’d been able to create before, especially in terms of resources. That gave me strength. Then a German company reached out, wanting to buy the rights to distribute it—that’s when I knew I could go further.”
Fuelled by success, Clemence wanted to bring her next story directly to Rwandan audiences. She launched Shenge Series on YouTube, producing 141 episodes from start to finish.
“Shenge is about identity. Many Rwandan youth struggle with where they come from. I wanted them to embrace their roots, love their country, and work for it.”
Clemence didn’t just write and direct—she also produced and acted in the show. It concluded in December 2024.
Current work: Indahiro y’ubuto
Her current project, Indahiro y’Ubuto (Promise of Youth), is still ongoing with over 60 episodes so far. The story follows two young lovers who make promises never to betray each other, to stay true, and to serve their nation.
“I always weave patriotism into my stories. I believe in strong values, good leadership, and youth taking responsibility for building our country.”
She calls it her most personal work.
“Indahiro y’Ubuto is my favorite. I write it straight from my heart. It reflects the daily struggles we all face.”
Her voice in Rwandan cinema
Clemence is more than a storyteller—she’s a voice for change.
She balances writing, producing, directing, and acting with grace. But even for someone so skilled, certain roles challenge her:
“Sometimes I play roles that involve sexual language. As a mother and a Christian, it makes me uncomfortable—especially in comedies. I still do it, but it’s difficult.”
Her biggest challenge, however, is the industry itself:
“In Rwanda, it’s not easy to find someone to support you. You may have talent, but financial support is hard to come by. That was one of my biggest struggles.”
Mentors & gratitude
Though self-made, Clemence is not without deep gratitude.
“The people who mentored me in theater are Rukundo Charles Lwanga and Musagara Andre.
In film, I owe a lot to Imbuto Foundation and Art Rwanda – Ubuhanzi. They saw the seed inside me and helped it grow.
And to Musayidizi Jean de Dieu, my university drama teacher—
I’ll never forget how, after every lesson, I followed him to talk about my dream of becoming a great writer. He always supported me.”
Words to the youth
To young people hoping to follow her path, Clemence advises:
“Don’t just do things for fame. Do them with a purpose—to help others or to make a meaningful contribution to the society you live in. Be proud of what you bring to the world.”
Vision for the future
“I want to keep creating stories that touch hearts and change lives—
stories that inspire behavioral and social transformation.”
Clemence NAHIMANA is living proof that persistence, talent, and authenticity can break barriers. She didn’t wait for opportunity to find her—she built doors, knocked, and walked through every one of them.
Her journey reminds us:
If you nurture the seed inside you, one day, the world will see it bloom.
