Recently acquired by the State Library of Queensland is a small series of black and white photographs depicting the Brisbane based Imanzi Rwandan Singing and Dancing Group.

Eric Kagorora. Acc 30854 Imanzi Rwandan Culture Dance Group photographs. (In copyright). John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland. Image: 30854-0001-0001

Made up from member of Brisbane’s Rwandan community, the group was set up in January 2010 as a non-profit organisation to promote Rwandan culture in South East Queensland.

Dancers from the Imanzi Rwandan Cultural Song and Dance Group. Acc 30854 Imanzi Rwandan Culture Dance Group photographs. (In copyright). John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland. Image: 30854-0001-0009

The aim of the organisation was to bring together members of the Rwandan community, especially younger people, and give them an opportunity to learn about their culture and share their talents. Additionally, the group was formed as way for participants to move on from traumatic past events and contribute to a brighter future in Brisbane.

Rwandan dancers Nadine and Robert. Acc 30854 Imanzi Rwandan Culture Dance Group photographs. (In copyright). John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland. Image: 30854-0001-0005

Performances and workshops by the group have since been in high demand and they have participated in numerous major festivals including Woodford Fold Festival

Cyprien Kagorora. Acc 30854 Imanzi Rwandan Culture Dance Group photographs. (In copyright). John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland. Image: 30854-0001-0006

These photographs were taken by local photographer Hamish Cairns in 2010, in the very early days of the group, and depict members in costume.

Rwandan dancers Dianne and Robert. Acc 30854 Imanzi Rwandan Culture Dance Group photographs. (In copyright). John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland. Image: 30854-0001-0010

You can view this collection in full on State Library of Queensland's One Search catalogue.

R. Hillier – Librarian, State Library of Queensland