About Icyeza Foundation
Our Story
From Ten dancers in a Warsaw gym to a foundation for a whole community
Icyeza Foundation began in November 2022, when a small group of young Rwandans living in Poland started meeting to share traditional dance , a way to stay close to home while building a life abroad. What started as ten dancers rehearsing after work and classes became Ballet Icyeza Polska, and soon a wider need became clear: language, storytelling, mentorship and community were just as important as the dance itself.
Icyeza Foundation was formed to carry that wider mission , supporting Rwandan and African cultural life across Poland, for anyone who wants to take part, learn, or simply belong.
Why We Exist
Mission, vision & approach
Three ideas that guide every programme we run.
Mission
The Foundation’s mission is to promote, preserve and disseminate the richness of Rwandan and African cultural heritage, using dance, language, art and education as tools for action; to support intercultural exchange and vulnerable African youth; and to deepen awareness of African traditions, values and perspectives in Poland and beyond
Objectives
We aim to preserve and develop knowledge, language, values and skills as foundations for personal dignity, empowerment and the strength of African communities.
What We Stand For
Our core values
The principles behind Icyeza Foundation and everyone who dances, volunteers or works with us.
Heritage
Every programme starts from respect for where this culture comes from.
Community
We build spaces where people feel they belong, on stage and off it.
Excellence
We take our craft seriously , rehearsal, discipline, and care in every performance.
Openness
Rwandan by roots, open to all , anyone is welcome to learn, join or support us.
Our People
Leadership & team
The people guiding Icyeza Foundation and Ballet Icyeza Polska.
Murenzi Bwami Arnaud
President of the management board & Co-founder of Ballet Icyeza Polska
Hirwa Ndungutse Arsene
Board Member
Byukusenge Patience
Board Member
Kevin Mugisha Sambazi
Board Member
Join the mission
Be part of the next chapter
Whether you want to dance, volunteer, partner, or give , there’s a place for you at Icyeza Foundation.
Trusted By
Partners & collaborators
Organisations we’ve performed with and worked alongside.
