The star-studded gathering drew government officials, celebrities, former pageant contestants, and sports stars, celebrating the journey of a young woman whose life story goes far beyond the crown.
Among the notable attendees were the Minister of Public Service and Labour, Ambassador Christine Nkurikiyinka, and former Miss Rwanda winners, including Jolly Mutesi, Liliane Iradukunda, and Meghan Nimwiza. Previous contestants such as Darina Kayumba, Claudine Muyango, Pamella Uwicyeza, and Shanitah Umunyana also graced the occasion.
"We are here to support you, we are behind you, and I hope everyone in this room will go out as your ambassadors," the Minister remarked.
The event also featured celebrities such as Bull Dogg, Juno Kizigenza, Christopher, and Ruti Joel, who entertained the guests, alongside performances by children from the Sherrie Silver Foundation. APR BBC basketball stars Ntore Habimana, Adonis Filer, and Axel Mpoyo also attended as special guests, interacting with attendees and joining in the celebrations.
One of the most notable announcements of the evening was Nishimwe's initiative to distribute more than 10,000 copies of her memoir to schools and community libraries across Rwanda. Targeting young people who may not have access to books, the initiative aims to empower youth to read, dream, and work toward brighter futures. Each book is priced at 40,000 Rwandan francs, and several attendees immediately pledged support, placing orders to contribute to the program.
A memoir of growth, faith, and resilience
More Than a Crown chronicles Nishimwe's life before, during, and after her reign as Miss Rwanda. The memoir explores her childhood, struggles with self-esteem, mental health challenges, and the pressures of social media, as well as insights into her marriage to Michael Tesfay in December 2024.
Nishimwe uses the book to reflect on moments of joy and hardship, offering readers lessons in resilience, faith, and personal growth.
'Before the crown, there was Naomie. There was Naomie with the crown, and now there's Naomie after the crown. Wearing the crown felt like a season, but not my whole identity. This book is for everyone, to inspire each person who feels unseen or misunderstood by society," Nishimwe shared.
'Tonight we're not just launching a book, we're celebrating a journey. More Than a Crown is a reminder that every person is more than the titles people give them, more than their past, more than their struggles, and more than the crown society places on them.'
During the launch, Nishimwe recounted that Chapter 9, which deals with loss and personal pain, was particularly challenging to write.
'It was a big conversation with myself, full of so much pain. Sharing it helps me heal and create a safe space for others to feel seen and understood,' she explained.
During post-launch interviews, Nishimwe expressed her excitement at the overwhelming support from attendees, with over 100 copies signed during the event alone. She emphasised the importance of her book donation initiative, noting that most of her followers are high school-aged and that the program is designed to give back and encourage young readers.
'The moment this book inspires people to dream big, believe in themselves, and step out of their comfort zones, that is when I know it has succeeded,' Nishimwe said.
She also revealed plans to take the memoir on a global tour next year, including Uganda, Kenya, the U.S., and Europe, aiming to create a community where people can share their stories without judgment.
Her husband, Michael Tesfay, delivered a heartfelt tribute, praising the memoir as a reflection of Nishimwe's courage, authenticity, and journey of growth.
'This book is more than a story; it is a reflection of her heart, her strength, and her courage to be vulnerable in front of the world,' Tesfay said.
Representatives from Imagine We Publishers highlighted the importance of amplifying African voices and stories that reflect contemporary challenges and triumphs. The memoir, they said, represents the post-genocide generation navigating modern life with resilience and hope.
More Than a Crown is available through Imagine We Publishers in Rwanda and is also available to a global readership on Amazon.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
