Ikaze Night 2nd Edition: A Cultural Celebration

By Germain Mucyo

The Rwandan community and friends of Rwanda gathered on August 30–31, in Portland, for the second edition of Ikaze Night, a celebration of culture, dialogue, and community visioning. Building on the success of the first edition, which was held in Washington, D.C., in 2024, this year’s event blended entertainment with empowerment, in the form of cultural showcases, live performances, and panel discussions designed to strengthen identity, foster dialogue, and inspire the next generation.

The program opened with a Kinyarwanda-language panel, “Kubungabunga Umuco n’Indangagaciro Nyarwanda binyuze mu kurera neza” (Preserving Rwandan Culture and Values through Nurturing). Moderated by Jean Claude Ngoboka, the conversation featured Prince Didier Mwenegihanga, Marie Jeanne Mwizere, and Ifashabayo Sylvain Dejoie, who spoke about raising children with respect, honesty, and peace, while preserving Rwandan cultural values and promoting mental well-being in the diaspora.

Later, the spotlight turned to the English panel, called “Sharing Our Stories and Targeting Our Bright Future.” The discussion featured Suleiman CJ Nsenga, Communication Commissioner of the Rwandese Community Association of Maine; Melissa Hue, Director, Office of Economic Opportunity, City of Portland; Joelle Rutembesa, Finance Manager, Gateway Community Services Maine; and Nathan Davis, Executive Director, Gateway Community Services Maine. Panelists explored immigration policy gaps, workforce integration, and financial empowerment, stressing that immigrants should feel free to ask questions and make use of the many resources available to help them succeed.

During a question-and-answer session, the audience raised a range of questions reflecting the realities of immigrant life in Maine. One participant voiced concern about U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detentions and the uncertainty surrounding possible policy changes under the administration of President Donald Trump. The panelists responded with a mix of caution and encouragement. Melissa Hue stressed the importance of staying alert, noting how quickly policies can shift. Joelle Rutembesa underscored the need for everyday vigilance, reminding people that even small steps, like ensuring a driver’s license, registration, and insurance are up to date, can make a difference. Rounding out the exchange, Suleiman Nsenga urged the community not to live in fear, but to focus on doing the right things and building their lives with integrity.

The event also featured a performance by Sabrine Nibamwe, a poet, writer, and author, who performed a poem from her newly released book Slay Your Highness.

A special moment of the evening was the presentation of the Lifetime Community Service Award to Nsenga, who has lived in Maine since 1992 and has been a pillar of support for many immigrant communities. Through his decades of service, Suleiman has helped countless newcomers navigate life in Maine and find a sense of belonging. In accepting the award, he said he was deeply honored, noting that it represents “love, service, and a commitment to helping others integrate and thrive.”

On August 31, guests enjoyed a more relaxed program, exploring the beauty of the Pine Tree State with a visit to Two Lights State Park. The day concluded with a lively evening of barbecue, creating space for connection, laughter, and celebrating the spirit of togetherness.

With its blend of cultural preservation, thoughtful dialogue, and community bonding through entertainment, Ikaze Night, organized by Innox Entertainment in collaboration with professionals and creatives across the U.S., has established itself as a platform for connection and celebration.

Patrick Niyonshima, one of the organizers, said that this event will continue with the third edition set to take place in Massachusetts in 2026, offering another opportunity to share stories, strengthen community, and look toward the future together.