Under Construction, Coming Soon!

by Coming Soon

Check back soon for updates about the exciting classes taking place in this program.

David Kwizera

by Jennifer Pickering & David Kwizera

For over 8 years, David was the leader of his “band of brothers” living as streets orphans in an uncovered parking lot in Kigali. Each day was a struggle for food and survival. David is the elected leader of the LEAF Intore Troupe. He has a natural confidence, a big heart and a warm smile.

Meet our Featured Student David Kwizera

by Intore Culture & Music Center

For over 8 years, David was the leader of his “band of brothers” living as streets orphans in an uncovered parking lot in Kigali. Each day was a struggle for food and survival. David is the elected leader of the LEAF Intore Troupe. He has a natural confidence, a big heart and a warm smile.  When we asked David what he imagined for his future, David responded “most of us grew up on the streets, and it was not our choice. We are sad for the others that are still on the streets. We dream to have work, and when we can sustain ourselves, we wish to take in other kids from the streets. We want to reach other kids – not only from the streets, but youth in general. We want to empower other kids the way that we were empowered.”

Rwanda Expectations

by Stephen Beili

I have little idea of what to expect.  My mantra since my January 19 decision has been ‘leaving for Rwanda in 3 weeks, going for 3 months.’  Now, I’m on the first of my 4 flights to take me from Asheville, North Carolina to Kigali, the capital of Rwanda in central Africa.

In October 2010 at the Lake Eden Arts Festival (LEAF), I heard that 70% of Rwanda’s population is under 30.

Obstacles and Rewards

by Stephen Beili

When working toward building a performance center for traditional drumming and dancing for fifteen young men who grew up on the streets in Rwanda in the years following the genocide of 1994, one can expect to run into a few obstacles.  And then, thankfully, there are the rewards…

Three Months in Rwanda

by Stephen Beili

Three months being bored and cold in Asheville, North Carolina (where my work was slowing down and winter was coming on) or three months volunteering with Playing For Change and its partner in Rwanda, LEAF International?  I chose the latter…