Interview with David
September 2, 2024
HEROES JOURNEYS : "The Coordinating Legend"
Meet Gisele Ikuzwe, a hospitality lead of Tugende Bike Café, situated in Kigali, Rwanda. Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1994, just months after the Rwandan Genocide.
“I actually don’t know how to ride – yet - but I’m trying to learn currently” she says with a laugh whilst we exchange introductions chatting on her Friday off. Although we both know a bit of French, one of Rwanda’s official languages, Gisele and I feel more comfortable chatting in English as we get to know each other.
" The atmosphere amongst riders and crew is amazing; everyone is in good spirits"
“Whilst growing up, my brother used to rent bikes and ride these around. Bikes are connected to the Rwandan way of living. Especially in the Eastern province, as there are less hills, you see women on bikes, carrying children and packages at the same time, using the vehicles as transportation.”
After completing high school, Gisele earned a business degree in International Hotel Management in Kigali, as well as an advanced diploma in computer science.
Gisele got to know the Rwanda Epic six years ago while she was still studying in Kigali. Matt, one of the founders, was leading a team-building class at her school. Some of the students volunteered in the first editions of the Rwandan Epic and Race Around Rwanda. Gisele stayed in touch with the guys as her interest in event management was sparked.
Initially I started out as a volunteer, helping to provide participations with information.
After two years, I grew into the role of accommodation manager, overseeing hotel bookings and luggage transport for the riders.”.
The role has taught Gisele a lot of flexibility and adaptability, always ensuring to have alternatives at hand when things change last-minute. Her goal is to make sure that everything is well-organized; airport transfers, rider check-ins, pre-race briefings, social rides to acclimate riders to Rwanda’s terrain, and, during the race, managing logistics like luggage transport, dinners, bike repairs, sport massages, laundry, and even tourist activities.”
With the race growing to over 100 participants, opportunities for local part time jobs have significantly increased, one of the brand values of Rwanda Alternative Riding.
Race week now requires at least 40 local crew members, all contributing to creating an incredible experience for its participants.
“I’ve seen that biking is a very open sport that brings people together from lots of different backgrounds. The atmosphere amongst riders and crew during the Rwandan Epic is amazing; everyone is in good spirits, ready to meet new people and have a good time. It’s also a great opportunity to learn about Rwanda and its culture in a short period of time.”
Her advice to future participants? “Come fit and excited, like you would for any race. But don’t worry—it’s accessible for all levels. We provide all the support you need to succeed and have a great time.”need to succeed and have a good time.
