In 2023, a group of young women embarked on a journey to re-introduce cheerleading in the Rwandan sports industry, a commitment they have made to raise the morale of the players on the pitch. Cheerleading is a team activity in which elements of dance and acrobatics are combined with shouted slogans in order to entertain spectators at sporting events and to encourage louder and more enthusiastic cheering. After noticing a rise in the basketball game and overall sports activities in Rwanda, Ishami Talents decided to form a cheerleading team of 30 women to train them as they embark on the new journey. They are based at Rafiki in Nyamirambo, where they do rehearsals twice a week. Kessy Ngarambe, chief of operations at Ishami Talent revealed that since embarking on the journey they have so far had many opportunities to perform at big stages like Boys II Men concert. “The idea came at the end of 2023, we did auditions and 30 girls were selected to be part of the cheerleading squad. They are now undergoing regular practices and rehearsals to make their performances perfect, we are an enthusiastic team that is determined to not only make women voices heard but also bring cheer and support during the games,” she said. Ariela Bwiza, captain of the cheerleaders told The New Times that even though she was not into sports her passion for dance made her cast for the team. After joining she was excited because the practices and choreographies became like a sport to her. “There is still stigma around cheerleading and our culture because it is not a common thing in Rwanda. We want to be proof that cheerleading can work within our culture and have an impact in the ongoing development of our sport industry,” she said. Encouraging other young passionate women to be part of the team , Ariela further added that cheerleading is not just about dancing but a space to share stories, learn leadership and build mental stability. Benitha Atete, one of the cheerleaders expressed her excitement when she finally learned about a cheerleading team coming to Rwanda because she has been always wanted to be part of it from a young age, after watching it on television. The Mount Kigali University student, highlighted that the team envisions performing beyond national level and that they are committed to grow bigger and stronger.
