In May, I traveled to Rwanda with the Friends of Rwandan Rugby to document their grassroots work, shoot portraits, and embrace a personal adventure—testing new equipment and stepping outside my comfort zone.

Friends of Rwandan Rugby has been supporting grassroots rugby in Rwanda since 2004, partnering with schools and employing Rugby Development Officers (RDOs) across the country. The warmth and enthusiasm of the Rwandan pupils, teachers, and RDOs were truly inspiring. Known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills," Rwanda is breathtaking in every sense.

We were based in Kigali for the first two days, visiting schools near the capital, before heading north to Byumba, in the Gicumbi District—Rwanda’s highest significant settlement, perched at 2,220 meters.

Together with the RDOs, our UK team worked with four local schools, running training workshops that culminated in a tournament day on the penultimate day of the tour.

The work featured here reflects this incredible journey. I hope to return in 2026 to explore even more of this vibrant and beautiful country.

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