UWAMAHORO Sumaya

Sumaya was born in 2013, growing up in a life shaped by hardship and emotional struggle. Raised by a single mother with no family support, Sumaya faced challengesthat few children her age could imagine. Her mother, who had left an orphanage after becoming pregnant, tried her best to care for her, but the lack of resources, combined with emotional isolation, left Sumaya vulnerable and often alone. From a young age, Sumaya’s confidence was deeply affected by poverty and the constantabsence of support. She struggled to access school materials, and sometimes even the simple joy of attending school felt out of reach. In those early years, the weight of her circumstances left her shy, withdrawn, and carrying a quiet sadness that few could see. She often felt invisible, as though the world around her could not notice her dreams or hear her unspoken fears. Everything began to change when Sumaya joined Art for Change Rwanda. For the first time, she found a community that welcomed her with open arms—a family of peers and mentors who nurtured her talents and restored her hope. Through music, Sumaya discovered a voice not only for her creativity but also for her healing. Singing became her refuge, a way to express feelings she had long kept inside, and a tool to transform her pain into something beautiful. Today, Sumaya is thriving in Senior Two, radiating confidence and joy. Her talent as a singer hasgrown immensely, and she now uses music to inspire others and heal wounds she once carried silently. The shy, isolated child she once was has blossomed into a young girl full of life, courage, and a sense of purpose. Sumaya’s story is a testament to resilience, hope, and the transformative power of care, mentorship, and the arts. From the depths of loneliness and hardship, she has emerged not only as a talented singer but as a shining example of how love, guidance, and opportunity can rewrite a child’s story. With every note she sings, Sumaya tells the world that even the most difficult beginnings can lead to a future filled with light, creativity, and endless possibilities.