Success often begins with the courage to pursue one’s passion, even when others fail to see its potential. This is the story of Jean Die Kanyamibwa, a professional chef and East African University Rwanda (EAUR) student whose determination and commitment have enabled him to build a successful career in Rwanda’s hospitality industry.
Kanyamibwa shared his inspiring journey during EAUR Update, a flagship program aired on EAUR VIBES RADIO and hosted by journalist Kubwayo Jean de la Croix. The program focuses on news, achievements, and developments related to East African University Rwanda while providing a platform for university leaders, students, and accomplished professionals to share their experiences, ideas, and perspectives with the wider community.
As a guest on the show, Kanyamibwa reflected on his professional journey, the challenges he encountered, and the lessons that have shaped him into one of Rwanda’s experienced culinary professionals.
His story began in 2013 when he received an opportunity to pursue professional culinary studies in Kenya. While many young people at the time aspired to follow traditional academic paths, Kanyamibwa chose to follow his passion for cooking. He spent a year and a half studying culinary arts before returning to Rwanda in 2015 with a vision of building a career in the hospitality sector.
Upon his return, he started working at Kivu Serena Hotel, where he gained valuable practical experience and learned the fundamentals of professional kitchen operations. His dedication and willingness to learn opened doors to greater opportunities, leading him to work at the Kigali Convention Centre before joining internationally renowned luxury hospitality brands including Bisate Lodge and Singita, both recognized for their exceptional service and five-star standards.
According to Kanyamibwa, every step of his career provided new learning opportunities, broader exposure, and increased professional growth. The experience he accumulated over the years enabled him to rise through the ranks and establish himself within one of the country’s most competitive industries.
Today, he serves as a sous chef at Mövenpick Hotel Kigali, where he continues to advance his skills while contributing to the delivery of world-class hospitality services.
What makes his story particularly inspiring is the fact that he chose culinary arts despite societal perceptions at the time. He recalled that many people viewed cooking as a profession with limited prospects and little prestige. Some parents and community members believed it was a career reserved for those who had failed to pursue other options.
However, Kanyamibwa remained focused on his dream.
Remarkably, he had received a government scholarship that would have allowed him to continue his studies at the University of Rwanda. Despite this opportunity, he made the bold decision to pursue culinary arts instead because he believed it was where his passion and future truly belonged.
Looking back, he describes that decision as one of the most important turning points in his life.
His journey also mirrors the transformation of Rwanda’s hospitality industry over the past decade. When he entered the profession, the sector was still developing and many hotels depended heavily on foreign professionals due to a shortage of skilled local talent.
Today, the situation has changed dramatically.
Kanyamibwa proudly noted that many of Rwanda’s leading hotels now employ highly qualified Rwandan professionals, including executive chefs, managers, and hospitality experts. For him, this progress reflects the country’s commitment to building local capacity and creating opportunities for young people.
Drawing comparisons with Kenya, where he received his training, he acknowledged the country’s advanced hospitality industry and credited it for providing him with a strong foundation that has helped him succeed throughout his career.
Beyond his professional achievements, Kanyamibwa continues to invest in his personal growth as a student at East African University Rwanda, balancing academic pursuits with the demands of a successful career. His commitment to lifelong learning demonstrates that professional success and education can go hand in hand.
During the interview, he encouraged young people to embrace vocational careers and pursue fields they are passionate about rather than being limited by societal expectations.
He emphasized that culinary arts and other vocational professions offer significant opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship, and financial stability for those willing to dedicate themselves to excellence.
As he concluded his appearance on EAUR Update, Kanyamibwa expressed appreciation to the Government of Rwanda for its continued efforts to develop tourism, hospitality, and vocational education, sectors that are opening doors for thousands of young Rwandans.
His story stands as a powerful reminder that success is not determined by following conventional paths, but by having the courage to pursue one’s passion, continuously learn, and remain committed to personal and professional growth.
Through platforms such as EAUR Update on EAUR VIBES RADIO, East African University Rwanda continues to connect students and the wider community with inspiring voices whose experiences motivate the next generation to dream bigger, work harder, and create their own success stories.
