I&M Bank, in partnership with Serena Hotel, on December 23 hosted a children’s Christmas party in Kigali, bringing together children and parents for a day of celebration, creativity and community engagement, with Sherrie Silver as a special guest.

Held at Serena Hotel, the event featured gift-giving, food and entertainment, and was aimed at spreading festive cheer while supporting less-privileged families. Speaking at the event, Serena Hotel Country Manager Frankline Nyakundi said the celebration was about extending love and connection beyond material support.

"When we are blessed, we also remember to bless others. Today is not just about having a meal or receiving gifts; it is about connecting with those who are less privileged and expressing love,” Nyakundi said.

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I&M Bank Chief Executive Officer Benjamin Mutimura encouraged the children to value education and discipline, noting that both are key to long-term success. He also urged them to embrace their individuality and talents.

"Each of you is unique in your own way. Because you are unique, you should do different things that are good and meaningful,” Mutimura said, adding that the bank plans to recognise strong academic performance among the children in the coming year.

Founder of the Sherrie Silver Foundation, Sherrie Silver, highlighted the transformative power of talent and creative expression, particularly for vulnerable children.

"Many children have so much talent, but no one believes in them,” Silver said. "We wanted to create a space where they can be free, where they can learn to sing, dance and play instruments.”

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She noted that through the foundation’s programmes, some children have moved off the streets to perform internationally alongside global music stars, including Kendrick Lamar, Diamond Platnumz and Zuchu, while others have met world leaders such as the Director-General of the World Health Organisation.

Silver thanked I&M Bank and Serena Hotel for hosting the event and for their continued support of mothers and children, describing the celebration as both memorable and meaningful for the foundation’s community.

The festivities concluded with children receiving stationery, shoes and other gifts, alongside a shared meal. Mothers were also recognised for their dedication, before the celebration ended with performances by children from the Sherrie Silver Foundation.