David Kwizera and Schree Chavdarov ~ LEAF International Rwanda

LEAF International Culture Keeper David Kwizera was granted Chief of the LEAF Intore Troupe at the young age of 17.  His leadership skills, confidence, and ability to stay positive under intense situations have made him the ultimate teaching artist and culture keeper. For over 10 years, David has been learning, practicing and teaching traditional Rwandan dance and drum. In 2017, he became a Culture Keeper and leader. It has been an extraordinary journey, and now it is time for him to shine beyond his borders.

Schree Chavdarov serves as the Global Engagement Director for LEAF Community Arts in Asheville, NC. As the Global Engagement Director, Schree works to empower communities by supporting cultural exchange, cultural preservation, and the fostering of global citizenship. She spends her time traveling to LEAF International countries to support Culture Keepers who are connecting youth to their traditional art forms.

Enjoy this special one-hour Living Well where David tells his remarkable story that begins with being an orphaned and homeless child of the Rwandan genocide to his involvement with LEAF International that provide resources for housing, English lessons, and various other learning opportunities. Over the past year, David has led the birth of a Cultural Arts Center in Rwanda where he and other members of the troupe serve as Teaching Artists to 200+ young street kids every day. Through his work, David Kwizera embodies his mission while gracefully defining resilience, artistic leadership, and hope for new pathways in life through music and art.

Living Well with David Kwizera and Schree Chadradov on AshevilleFM, March 19, 2018