Intore Culture & Music Program
Kigali, RwandaIn partnership with LEAF International, the Playing For Change Foundation is giving hope and opportunity to Rwanda's future leaders by providing drum and dance training to the LEAF Intore Cultural Troupe. This troupe is comprised of young men, many of whom grew up on the streets of Kigali, orphaned by the Rwandan genocide.
The Intore Culture & Music Program will offer traditional drumming and performance classes to Rwandan orphans and to the community. As a result of the 1994 Genocide and the AIDS epidemic, 70% of the Rwandan population is under 30—a large portion of which are orphans who lack housing and education.
Rwanda's rich music, drumming and dance culture is preserved by the mentoring of local youth. Children— through immersion in their cultural music traditions—develop valuable skills, self-esteem and empowerment, and community connection.
"The music has changed us. We now feel proud and have hope. Through music and performance, we are example students to the rest of our community and our country" - LEAF Intore Cultural Troupe, program participants
LEAF International Website: LEAFInternational.org
Intore Culture & Music Program: Star School
These young men now have the chance to share their talents with children through a collaboration with Star School, a primary and secondary school serving over 300 children just outside of Kigali. The children receive instruments and instruction during monthly workshops conducted by members of the troupe.
In addition, the troupe members will receive support, which will help them to secure performances in the community, providing these young men with both the opportunity to further develop their skills, and the potential to earn income.
Sponsor this program
For only $10/mo or more you can sponsor the Intore Culture & Music Program!
OTHER WAYS TO GIVE
Foundation cement
Provides five bags of cement to help build the foundation of a music school
Teacher salary
Provides one month’s teacher salary
See all
FEATURED STUDENT
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,
… moreNEWS
Apr 25, 2011
Obstacles and Rewards
by Stephen BeiliWhen 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…
LIFE IN THE COMMUNITY
The LEAF Intore Cultural Troupe are a group of young men - many of whom were orphaned at a young age - who lived and slept in a battered parking lot for many years. They raised themselves to be a band of brothers, and now share day-to-day duties in their new home. Each of the 18 boys were assigned a role amongst themselves including cook, store keeper, general of communication, and general of hygiene. The young men are also big football fans!
Under Construction, Coming Soon!
Check back soon for updates about the exciting classes taking place in this program.
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Leonard Mutwarasibo
Leonard Mutwarasibo is a member of the prestigious National Ballet of Rwanda and is the LEAF Intore boys’ primary teacher of traditional Rwandan drumming, song and dance. Leonard has trained the boys 3 times a week for the last 4 years and is an integral role model and mentor.
For questions or information regarding the Playing For Change Foundation, please email
Playing For Change Foundation, Main Office: 