HELLO, I'M
Facilitator in the sectors of Arts, Culture, and Communications
About
MY BACKGROUND
Hey there! I'm Cynthia Butare. And for me, creative expression isn't just displays; it's our culture's heartbeat and evolution. My unique journey has immersed me in artists' world with sensitivity. Proudly a documentary photographer capturing authentic moments, I also navigated administrative corridors as a civil servant from 2019 to 2023.
Perhaps, while at the Rwanda Development Board, my most cherished involvement in the creative industry involved handling communication for the Rwanda Film Office. Together, we aimed to amplify the audiovisual sector. September 2022 saw us launch our first call for film projects, showcasing the vibrancy of our culture. I steered the communication efforts, giving a platform to emerging artists. To our gratitude, 33 distinct film and series narratives secured financial backing, amassing a total of 184 million RWF.
Speaking of impactful projects, one of my most recognised contributions is through the renowned "Visit Rwanda" brand of the Rwanda Development Board. Known for partnerships highlighting cultural and artistic synergies, the Paris Saint-Germain deal particularly focused on Rwanda's creative industry. This collaboration birthed the April 2023 campaign, "Nous avons tant d’émotions à vous faire vivre." The vision was clear: weave together the pulsating energy of PSG with the deep essence of Visit Rwanda, ensuring that Rwandan culture and creativity took center stage. You'll notice the incorporation of a traditional Intore dancer to celebrate our deep-rooted traditions, along with 2 models donning a Made-in-Rwanda brand, to reflect present times. What a win for our creative scene's visibility!
Always on the lookout for new challenges, I dive into personal projects within Rwanda's cultural and creative sectors. My keen interest in art and creativity drives me to a variety of bold projects. In December 2022, I participated in "What Do You See," a collective exhibition at MINUBUMWE, showcasing my series "Moulding Hands." This exhibition marked Rwanda's inaugural contemporary art fund and celebrated artisans' contribution. From April to July 2023, I was the Communication Manager for Kigali Cine-Junction Film Festival, bridging African cinema and local audiences. I also host the Imigani podcast, discussing arts with guests.
So, that sums up who I am. I'm always seeking fresh challenges and collaborations that push me beyond my boundaries and help me create work that leaves a lasting impression. If you have exciting projects that resonate with my interests, feel free to reach out and let's explore possibilities.
Education
WHAT I’VE LEARNED
2013 – 2014
Brunel University – London, UK; Class of 2014
Master of Arts; Documentary Practice
Experience
WHERE I’VE WORKED
April 2023 - Present
VANLELES Diamonds,
Head of Communications and Storytelling
April 2023 - July 2023
2009–2012
Manchester Metropolitan University – Manchester, UK; Class of 2012
Bachelor of Science; Digital Media and Communications
Kigali Cine-Junction, Film Festival
Head of Communications
November 2019 – May 2023
Rwanda Development Board,
Communication Analyst
2007–2008
Ecole de Culture Général Jean-Piaget - Geneva, Switzerland: Class of 2008
Communications
Portfolio
WHAT I’VE DONE
Skills & Languages
WHAT I BRING TO THE TABLE
Creative Direction
Content Development
Cultural Promotion
Cultural Integration
Cultural Advocacy
Creative Project Management
Creative Brand Promotion
English
French
Kinyarwanda
Awards
WHERE I SHINE
• Manchester Metropolitan University (Communications Department): Best Documentary Award for KICKIN’ IT WITH THE KINKS in 2012
• BEFFTA (Black Entertainment, Film, Fashion, Television and Arts): Best Blog of the Year 2013
Interests
OUT OF OFFICE
Piano
Photography
Videography
Cinema
Festivals
Travelling