Where Culture Becomes a Choice: Young People in Rango Find Belonging Through Dance

Rango, Rwanda — The rhythm begins before the words do.

A group of young people moves together across the open ground, their blue and white costumes flowing with every step. Arms rise. Feet follow the beat. A traditional dance takes shape, carrying with it something deeper than performance: a sense of belonging, discipline and pride in who they are.

Earlier this August, I travelled to Rango in the Diocese of Butare, where I met young people who have chosen the oratory as a place to spend their time, build friendships and discover their talents through cultural activities.

Some of them practise with the Don Bosco Youth Centre in Rango, while others practise within the Diocese of Butare. Their meeting places may be different, but their purpose is remarkably similar: to stay together, nurture their talents and grow into responsible citizens through culture and community.

For these young people, traditional dance is not simply something performed for an audience. It is a space where they learn to listen to one another, move as a team and appreciate the culture they have inherited.