From sponsored student to rising artist, Christiane’s journey is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of education to transform lives

When Christiane Uwase Boukuru, whose stage name is simply Boukuru, was growing up in Kigali, her home was full of love, laughter, and resilience. Her mother worked tirelessly as a medical administrator while raising four daughters, and her father, currently a retired soldier, instilled in the family a sense of discipline and honor. Christiane remembers her childhood as joyful, full of Christmas gatherings with cousins, shared meals, and the warmth of family.

Education was always a priority. Christiane excelled in school, often earning top marks and even skipping a grade. Her parents made sure she and her siblings went to church, where her faith in Christ began to grow.

At 13 years old, Christiane was welcomed into Africa New Life’s sponsorship program. Looking back now, she recalls how camps, center days, and mentorship gave her not only support with school, but also a foundation of values and faith that continue to shape her life today.

After high school, Christiane received an Esther Scholarship through Africa New Life. At first, she thought of it simply as financial help. But as time went on, she realized it was so much more: a community of encouragement, a sisterhood, and an opportunity to grow in purpose.

Christiane went on to study business management at Mount Kenya University. Yet even while pursuing academics, she held on to her first love: music. Singing had always been part of her life—at church and at school—but she never imagined it could become a career. That changed in 2018, when a friend encouraged her to enter a national music competition, called Art Rwanda ubuhanzi, an initiative of the First Lady’s Imbuto foundation. Christiane’s talent was undeniable. She advanced to the final stages, and from there her music began to open doors she never expected.

Her career has taken her to stages across Rwanda and beyond: the European Union Concert, Kwita Izina, local prestigious gala dinners, and international festivals. By 2023, she was performing solo shows and representing Rwandan culture through her music. In 2024, she made the bold decision to leave her 9-5 job to pursue music full time—a leap of faith that allowed her to embrace her calling.

For Christiane, music is more than performance. It is a platform to share messages of hope, joy, and resilience. “Performing brings me happiness,” she says, “especially when the audience connects with my songs.” Her style is rooted in Rwandan culture, making her a voice for her nation on the global stage.

Christiane’s journey is a story of perseverance and faith. She has learned from her parents the importance of self-respect and hard work, and she carries forward their lessons with gratitude. Today, she sees Rwanda as a nation of hope and opportunity, and she is proud to be part of a generation shaping its future.

Through sponsorship, Christiane received more than an education. She received guidance, encouragement, and opportunities that have helped her discover her purpose and dream beyond her circumstances. Today, she shines brightly as an artist, a cultural ambassador, and a woman of faith.

“The ministry gave us something powerful, a dream,” Christiane says. “A chance to hope, regardless of everything—life difficulties, home situations, background. Even thinking of it gives me chills! For every little person being accepted in the program, this is what Africa New Life gives us: a dream to dream big, regardless.”

Today, she shines brightly as an artist, a cultural ambassador, and a woman of faith.

“What seemed like a series of unexpected twists has led me to a place where I can now fully embrace my potential,” Christiane reflects. “Every day is a new chance to grow, with God guiding me each step of the way.”

Give to the Impact Fund today and help students like Christiane arise with joy, shine Christ’s light, and inspire generations to come.