As a music teacher at Green Hills Academy, he now spends his days teaching piano and music production to young students, sharing his knowledge and passion for the arts. For Konstantin, Rwanda has become a chosen home, a place where he can explore his interests in music, art, and cultural exchange in a way that feels both fulfilling and impactful.
Known among locals as 'Nsengiyumva', a Rwandan nickname he adopted after hearing it in conversation, Konstantin has embraced his new life with genuine enthusiasm. The name, which initially caught his attention because of its unique sound, has since become a friendly identifier that reflects his commitment to integrating into Rwandan culture.
Although he's still learning Kinyarwanda, he is determined to improve, believing that language is a key part of understanding the place he now calls home.
Konstantin's journey in music started long before he arrived in Rwanda. He began playing piano as a child and was involved in choirs and even composed his own songs. His love for music led him to study it professionally in Germany, and over the years, he gained experience in music production, composing for theater, and teaching.
'My decision to come to Rwanda was fueled by a desire to work on cultural projects, and I have since found a vibrant community of artists, musicians, and performers in Kigali,' he explains
In his role at Green Hills Academy, Konstantin teaches students not just about music but also about the importance of creativity and discipline in achieving one's goals. He encourages his students to think of their dreams as 'works in progress,' explaining that goals need dedication and practical steps.
'Music, like life, is all about the little steps that make up the big picture. For me, teaching is about more than imparting technical skills; it's about inspiring my students to find their voice and their confidence through art,' he says.
In addition to his teaching, Konstantin has become somewhat of a social media personality in Rwanda. His videos, which often feature humorous moments as he attempts to master Rwandan customs or speak Kinyarwanda, have earned him a modest following.
'It all started with a playful video correcting a friend's pronunciation of his nickname, which quickly went viral. From there, I began sharing more lighthearted content, surprising myself with how much people enjoyed my funny takes on everyday Rwandan life,' he recalls.
Outside of his online presence, Konstantin is deeply engaged in Rwanda's creative scene. He appreciates the country's efforts to support the arts, noting how the government and various organizations work to provide opportunities for artists and musicians.
'There's a strong energy here for the arts, and people genuinely enjoy participating in it. However, there some challenges, particularly the gap between well-established artists and those just upcoming. I believe that with more performance venues, mentorship, and funding, young artists could more easily find their way and make a name for themselves,' he advised.
Konstantin also has strong opinions about the role of values in art. For him, creative work should have purpose and integrity, not just a drive for fame or money. He's cautious of the global trend of social media sensationalism, particularly when it leads to superficial or provocative content for the sake of attention.
'Art should be meaningful and have a positive impact. If it's just for show, it loses its value. This perspective aligns with my approach to teaching and my belief that creativity can be a powerful tool for personal and social growth,' he says.
Moving forward, Konstantin hopes to continue contributing to Rwanda's art scene, helping young artists find their way and encouraging a community of creativity. He's also eager to keep learning Kinyarwanda, deepening his understanding of the country that has welcomed him so warmly.
'In just a few years, I have gone from being a visitor in Rwanda to becoming an active member of the creative community. Rwanda isn't just a place to live; it's a place where I can grow, share, and connect with others through the universal language of music and art,' he emphasizes.
Through his teaching, his performances, and his lighthearted videos, Konstantin has found a way to bridge cultures, inspire young minds, and make a lasting impact in a country that has captured his heart.
Sam K Nkurunziza
