Munyazikwiye Mugisha Lewis: Class - Drums & Percussion | Age - 14 years old

I joined Rwanda Rocks in October, 2016. I am 14 years old. Before Rwanda Rocks, I was always lonely because of the lower-class life that I lived. I often wondered about my future which would make me very sad. I always wanted to play the drums and sing but I did not know how I would get music skills since my parents couldn’t afford to put me in music school. I have made many new friends since I joined Rwanda Rocks who have helped me move out of my loneliness. Now, we meet, play and share ideas. I even rehearse what I have learned each day and then I show my siblings and my neighbors. We don’t have drums so instead I use jerricans, basins, spoons and other things to make rhythms.

Rwanda Rocks has also allowed me to meet many leaders like the First Lady of Rwanda. That was one of the best experiences of my life. I really hope to go far with Rwanda Rocks.

Parent
My name is Bernard Munyazikwiye and I am a parent to five kids. From the time Lewis started studying music, I have seen many changes. He has a more open mind now and music really helps them to relax after his school program and home activities. Before Lewis joined Rwanda Rocks, he had no confidence. He was always crying. Now, he is a child who is sharp and sociable. Rwanda Rocks has helped him manage things better in his life.

I never understood the importance of music. But as Lewis continued to show us how much he enjoyed it, we discovered that it was also helping him in many other ways. It is very expensive to get such skills like this in Africa and he is very lucky that he is getting them for free. We are very grateful to Rwanda Rocks and what they are doing for Lewis.