In 2021, he made history as the first Rwandan to sign with an NFL team, later continuing his career in the Canadian Football League (CFL), a journey defined as much by resilience and service as by sport.
His story begins in Zambia, where his parents sought refuge after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. The family later relocated to the United States when he was just two years old, and his early years were marked by constant movement. From New York to Illinois and through towns including Hinsdale, Romeoville, and Bolingbrook, each new place helped shape his resilience and determination from a young age.
'It was a lot of movement early on. We were trying to put the pieces together,' Rugamba told IGIHE in a recent exclusive Zoom interview, adding that adjusting to a new country as a large family was particularly challenging due to limited resources.
After settling in America, Rugamba recalls his parents' stories of life in the refugee camp. "We all lived in a hut, about 25 to 30 of us lying next to each other," he recalled. 'Despite the hardships, family was always the most important thing. That sense of togetherness kept our spirits up."
His mother played a pivotal role in his journey. Born three months premature, she named him Emmanuel, meaning 'God is with us,' a testament to faith and hope. 'She was my rock. She keeps me grounded and humble. She showed me that I could do anything if I wanted to,' Rugamba said.
His mother worked tirelessly, putting herself through nursing school while taking English classes and supporting a family of ten.
A chance encounter with football
Sports weren't a part of Rugamba's early plan, but a twist of fate changed everything. At nine years old, he was too young to join basketball at the local recreation centre, and his mother, determined to keep him active, enrolled him in football instead.
'It changed my life forever,' he said, adding that football became his passion and his path forward.
High school brought new opportunities and mentorship. Coach Tim Lavery and Head Coach Michael Stein recognised Rugamba's talent and guidance, encouraging him to pursue scholarships and professional opportunities.
He really changed my life, because simply having knowledge of that opportunity meant everything. Not everybody has that knowledge, especially when you come from an immigrant family where everyone is just trying to put the pieces together,' he revealed.
Rugamba's work ethic and mental toughness set him apart.
'I wasn't the fastest player on the field. I wasn't the highest jumper, and I wasn't the strongest. But I can confidently say that I believed I was the best player on the field whenever I stepped out there," he said.
"That's what you have to do, because football is a mental game, and about 70% of what happens on the field happens between your ears.'
NFL breakthrough
In 2021, Rugamba achieved a milestone by joining the Cleveland Browns in the NFL. The experience was thrilling yet daunting.
'I knew I wanted to be a football player, but I didn't realise I was making history for Rwanda,' he said.
After seven months with the Browns, he transitioned to the CFL, playing for the Vancouver BC Lions and earning rookie-of-the-year nominations and all-star recognition. Rugamba described the CFL as faster-paced and more offence-driven than the NFL, highlighting the differences in field size, player count, and style of play.
Giving back
While Rugamba's football achievements are impressive, his off-field work defines him just as much. Through his nonprofit, Vision Forward Foundation, he has spoken at over 120 schools across Canada and the U.S., addressing inclusion, resilience, and anti-bullying.
'Football can only take you so far, but the message you give to the next generation lasts forever,' he said.
He is passionate about expanding opportunities for young Africans in sports, including in Rwanda.
'The biggest barriers are knowledge, opportunity, and resources,' Rugamba explained.
He welcomed Rwanda's growing presence in American football, particularly the Visit Rwanda partnership with the Los Angeles Rams, signed in September last year, calling it a powerful step toward expanding opportunity.
'When I saw that partnership, I couldn't stop smiling,' he said. 'I know what football can bring.'
For aspiring Rwandan and African players, Rugamba shares a simple truth: 'Ask a million questions. Find mentors. Be humble and willing to learn. That's how you get to the international stage.'
Looking ahead, Rugamba is eager to return to Rwanda, first to pay respects at the Genocide Memorial, then to engage with youth, sports organizations and policymakers. Through his foundation and partnerships, he hopes to bring mentorship programs and sports development initiatives back home.
'I want to be home,' he said. 'I want to see the youth, build programs, and give back in every way I can.'
Watch the full conversation below.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
