Aguka Team
Joshua Bee Alafia’s meditation practice began in 1989 when his mother gave him a mantra to work with. This sparked a rich journey into different styles from the Hawaiian Shamanic, Hindu, Sufi, Dzogchen, Taoist, and Vipassana traditions. Wanting to bring Vipassana practice to the youth, he began teaching mindfulness practice to incarcerated, court involved and system vulnerable youth through New York’s Lineage Project in 2010. Initially he had reservations in taking the teachers journey, but his mentor Gina Sharpe encouraged him to apply for a scholarship Community Dharma Leaders training through Spirit Rock Meditation Center, and he was accepted and graduated in 2012. He has also taught in the corporate setting, at MNDFL, New York Insight, the Brooklyn Zen Center, East Bay Meditation Center, public schools and universities, and recently taught his first 10 day retreat entitled Liberating the Heart, Dismantling Oppression, with Arinna Weisman, Phoenix Soleil and Lyn Fine in Joshua Tree at Dhamma Dena Retreat Center. He currently teaches mindfulness meditation with South Side Insight Meditation Circle and Taoist Meditation with Immortal Arts Chicago. Alafia is the Co-Executive Director of South Side Liberation Center.
Joshua Bee Alafia
Joseph Desideratus DUSHIMIMANA, is a passionate Social Entrepreneur; Yoga instructor, Meditation Instructor, Karate Instructor and Tai Chi Qigong Instructor. He holds a degree in Sociology from the former National University of Rwanda (Butare). He graduated from the 3-year Africa Yoga Project Academy Program in Nairobi Kenya and is certified by the Batiste Institute of Power Yoga. Joseph is a certified Level II Breath-Body-Mind instructor ; he has participated in a Mindfulness Meditation research workshop at the Uganda Buddhist Centre in Entebbe ; 10 days vippasana meditation and has completed 3 months training in Metamedecine and also holds a Black Belt, second dan in Wado-Ryu style Karate and a second Dan in Goju ryu karate style. He is a Progressive student of Qigong in Immortal Arts Academy. These practices have been therapeutic tools for him and also an opportunity to be of service for the community. His teaching style is a blend of meditative postures, movements and breath work. Those who practice under his instructions report to experience sound sleep, relief from chronic head ache, a balance of strength and flexibility, emotional balance and mental clarity. From 2013, Joseph teaches at different places including Fitness Centers, Hotels, Schools and Universities; private classes and Outreach classes. An invitation to “GROUND THE BODY, PACIFY THE HEART AND CALM THE MIND:” Joseph will guide you through a one hour practice of meditation, breathing and Qigong movements to be more grounded in the body, make peace with your emotions and calm the mind. You do not need to be experienced but simply be willing to go with the flow.
Joseph Desideratus Dushimimana
Cecilia Beach, PhD, is a Level 4 Breath-Body-Mind teacher as well as an experienced yoga teacher with 500-hr Kripalu certification. She is also certified as a 300-hr Advanced Teacher of Therapeutic Yoga and is training to become a Yoga Therapist. She teaches donation-based community yoga and Breath-Body-Mind classes at Alfred University she is a professor emerita of French and Women's and Gender Studies. She has also volunteered as a yoga teacher at the Allegheny County Jail and offered gentle yoga classes to breast and gynecological cancer survivors. From 2018-2020, Cecilia was a resident instructor at the Ituze Mindfulness and Yoga Center in Kigali, Rwanda. In addition to teaching classes in yoga, meditation and Breath-Body-Mind at the Ituze Center, Cecilia also led classes in yoga and Breath-Body-Mind in universities, a rehabilitation center for former street kids, a center for disabled women, a primary school for disadvantaged children, the Kigali Genocide Memorial Museum, and homes for elderly genocide survivors throughout the country. Cecilia returns regularly to Rwanda as a visiting yoga instructor and to lead teacher training in BBM.
Cecilia Beach
Joseph Mamiraguha never realized the positive benefits of yoga until he started practicing Yoga. Joseph is a Yoga instructor who has been practicing yoga for over 12 years focusing on Ashtanga and Baptiste Power Vinyasa Flow. He is certified as a yoga teacher by Project Air and Africa Yoga Project and graduated as BBM instructor at Breather Body-Mind. Now he is an Instructor at Ituze mindfulness and yoga center, where his main goal is to share yoga with the community. He has worked as a yoga instructor for various NGOs, Hotels, and Yoga centers. Fortunately, after feeling the positive healing energy of mind-body union, He dedicated his Career to this service. Namaste!
Joseph Maniraguha
Djuma MANIRAKIZA, originally from Burundi. He is a Kundalini yoga teacher certified by the Kundalini Research Institute, USA. In 2019, the 3HO Foundation (Healthy, Happy, Holy Organization) honored him as one of the 3HO50 luminaries who lead a life of service that inspires and spreads Kundalini yoga to undeserved populations. 2023, it was a pleasure for him to serve and offer yoga and meditation classes to undeserved communities in Rwanda through the Teaching for Equity program supported by the Yoga Alliance Foundation, USA. Djuma started Kundalini Yoga practices in his country Burundi in 2013 with Anthe Vrijlandt and Sat Sansar Singh, he became a lover of Kundalini Yoga technology, a lover of Kundalini mantras (Aquarian mantras ). He was trained by four international Kundalini Yoga trainers such as Harbhajan Singh from South Africa, Pritam Khalsa Kaur from South Africa, Ram Singh from France and Sat Darshan Singh Cristophe from Belgium.
Djuma Manirakiza
Christiane Nubuhoro is a yoga enthusiast. She teaches mind body well-being, Breath-Body-mind and Qigong to her community. She focuses on sharing with them different tools they can use when they are angry or sad . Christiane started to attend yoga practices since 2016 and received teacher training in 2019 in AYP (Africa Yoga Project). After the training she started working with communities especially old women and youth, her purpose is to reduce trauma, lonely life and improve their self-esteem and self-confidence. In August 2019 she was certified by Buffalo University with certificate in mind-body well-being and trauma informed yoga. In 2022 she finished breath Body Mind training with Breath- Body-mind Foundation. in January 2022, she was accepted in Immortal Arts Academy where she is a Qigong student till now. Christiane is among few yoga and Qigong teachers who are an inspiration to other girls and women in the Rwandan community. When teaching, she focuses on flow based practice, breathing to improve physical fitness and reduce stress. BREATH-BODY-MIND CLASS TAUGHT BY CHRISTIANE NUBUHORO Breath-Body-Mind incorporates different aspects of mindfulness meditation: (mindfulness of the body; mindfulness of breathing, mindfulness of feelings, mindfulness of thoughts,..) But the main intention of Breath-Bod-Mind is to balance the nervous system ( these classes developed by the Breath-Body- Mind Organization contain breath centered practices designed to soothe and balance your nervous system. the core practice is Coherent Breathing, evidenced in laboratories around the world to restore optimal and synchronous function in our mind-body-heart systems. Greater Health and Happiness is possible as we join together to breathe.
Christiane Nubuhoro
Toussaint Christian Iyamarere is a Yoga Enthusiast & Teacher, as well as Internal Development Alchemy (Qigong | Neigong) practitioner, and Fitness Trainer. He is a multifaceted individual dedicated to promoting physical and mental well-being through various disciplines such as yoga, qigong, and fitness training. With a passion for holistic health, he has embarked on a transformative journey to inspire others to lead healthier and more balanced lives. As a yoga enthusiast, Toussaint Christian Iyamarere has delved deep into the ancient practice, exploring its numerous benefits for the body, mind, and spirit. He has honed his expertise through intensive training and has obtained certifications in various yoga styles, including Hatha, Vinyasa, and Yin yoga. Toussaint's personal practice has instilled in him a profound understanding of the intricate connection between breath, movement, and mindfulness. He believes in the power of yoga to cultivate inner peace, strength, and flexibility, and he brings this philosophy into his teaching. Recognizing the importance of lifelong learning and self-improvement, Toussaint Christian Iyamarere has also immersed himself in the study of qigong. As a progressive student of qigong, he eagerly delves into this ancient Chinese practice that integrates breath control, gentle movements, and meditation to promote harmony and balance within the body's energy systems. With a strong desire to deepen his understanding, Toussaint aspires to become a qigong teacher, eager to share the transformative potential of this practice with others. Additionally, Toussaint Christian Iyamarere has established himself as a dedicated fitness trainer, drawing upon his expertise in yoga and qigong to create comprehensive training programs tailored to individual needs. By combining his knowledge of functional movement, strength training, and flexibility exercises, Toussaint helps his clients achieve their fitness goals while also prioritizing injury prevention and overall well-being. Toussaint's approach to teaching and training is rooted in empathy, compassion, and a deep respect for each person's unique journey. His sessions are characterized by a supportive environment, encouraging individuals to explore their potential, challenge their limitations, and cultivate self-awareness. Beyond his work in the studio, Toussaint Christian Iyamarere actively contributes to the wellness community by organizing workshops, seminars, and wellness retreats. Through these endeavors, he aims to create spaces where individuals can come together, connect, and embark on transformative experiences, fostering a sense of unity and personal growth. Toussaint Christian Iyamarere's dedication to his craft, his passion for holistic health, and his commitment to lifelong learning make him a sought-after yoga teacher, qigong practitioner, and fitness trainer. With an unwavering belief in the power of mind-body practices, he strives to inspire others to embrace their own wellness journeys, guiding them towards a healthier, more harmonious existence.
Christian Toussaint Iyamarere
Marie Rose Uwineza is a passionate yoga instructor, fueled by a burning desire to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of individuals within my community. With four years of invaluable experience, She has honed my skills and expertise in the art of yoga, ready to share its transformative power. He dedication to this ancient practice knows no bounds, as She wholeheartedly believes in its ability to heal and strengthen both the body and mind. Through my classes, She strive to create a welcoming and nurturing environment, allowing my students to explore their inner selves and discover the profound benefits that yoga offers. With each session, She guide the students through carefully crafted sequences, focusing on breath, movement, and mindfulness. She encourages them to embrace their own unique journey, fostering a sense of self-awareness and growth. Together, we delve into the depths of yoga, unlocking its potential to improve flexibility, balance, and overall fitness. Her approach extends beyond the physical aspects of yoga, as She emphasizes the importance of mental clarity and emotional well-being. She incorporate meditation and relaxation techniques into my classes, empowering individuals to find inner peace amidst the chaos of daily life. She is committed to creating a supportive community within my classes, fostering connections and building relationships among he students. She offers personalized guidance, adapting poses and modifications to accommodate individual needs and abilities, ensuring a safe and inclusive space for everyone. Witnessing the positive transformations that occur within her students fills her with immense joy and fulfillment. Their improved physical strength, increased flexibility, and enhanced mental resilience are testaments to the profound impact of yoga. As a lifelong learner, She continuously seek to expand my knowledge and stay abreast of the latest developments in the field of yoga. She attend workshops, engage in further training, and draw inspiration from renowned yogis to provide her students with a well-rounded and enriching experience. Yoga is her calling, and She considers it a privilege to guide others along their own yogic journeys. Together, we embark on a path of self-discovery, self-care, and holistic well-being, unlocking the transformative power of yoga one breath at a time.
Marie Rose Uwineza
Jean Claude Harolimana is yoga instructor . He teaches mind body well-being and Qigong to his community He focus on sharing with them, different tools they can use when they are angry or sad Jean claude started to attend yoga practice since 2018 and received teacher training in 2019 in AYP(Africa Yoga Project). After the training He started working with communities especially old women, youth and kds , his purpose is to reduce trauma lonely life and improve their self-confidence. In August 2019 he was certified by buffalo University with certificate in mind Body well-being and trauma informed yoga . He was accepted in Immortal arts academy where he is a progressive Qigong student until now. Jean claude is among few yoga and Qigong teachers who are in inspiration to the youth and others in the Rwandan community. When teaching, He focuses on flow based practice, breathing to improve physical fitness and reduce stress.
Jean claude Harolimana
Joseph Kagaba is a teacher in high school and yoga & Qigong teacher in Rwanda. He is a remarkable individual who dedicates his passion for teaching both in the high school classroom and the world of yoga and Qigong in Rwanda. With a diverse range of skills and qualifications, he brings a unique blend of knowledge and expertise to his students. As a high school teacher, Joseph is committed to nurturing young minds and shaping the future leaders of Rwanda. His engaging teaching style, combined with his deep subject knowledge, creates an inspiring and dynamic learning environment. He understands the importance of education in empowering individuals and communities, and he goes above and beyond to ensure his students receive a quality education. Beyond the traditional classroom, Joseph extends his teaching talents to the realm of yoga and Qigong. He holds a certificate in Breath-Body-Mind, which allows him to incorporate breathwork and mindfulness practices into his teachings. This holistic approach to well-being promotes mental clarity, emotional balance, and physical vitality. In addition to his certification, Joseph has also undergone specialized training in power yoga with the Africa Yoga Project. This training has equipped him with the skills to guide students through dynamic and energizing yoga sequences. Through power yoga, he helps individuals build strength, flexibility, and stamina, enhancing their overall fitness levels. Joseph's dedication to his craft is evident in his commitment to continuous learning and personal growth. He actively seeks out opportunities to expand his knowledge and refine his teaching methods. By attending workshops, connecting with other teachers, and immersing himself in the wisdom of experienced practitioners, he strives to provide his students with the most comprehensive and transformative yoga and Qigong experiences. Joseph's impact reaches far beyond the physical and intellectual aspects of teaching. His genuine care for his students' well-being fosters a nurturing and supportive environment. He encourages self-reflection, self-acceptance, and personal growth, empowering his students to develop resilience, confidence, and a deep sense of self-awareness. In both the high school classroom and the yoga studio, Joseph Kagaba's presence is transformative. Through his dedication, knowledge, and compassion, he inspires his students to unlock their full potential and embrace a path of lifelong learning and holistic well-being. His contributions to education and the practice of yoga and Qigong in Rwanda are truly commendable. He is also basketball coach in Rwanda young basketball education.
Joseph Kagaba
Adeline Ingabire is a passionate yoga teacher and a dedicated student of Qigong and Breath-Body-Mind practices. Her journey into the world of holistic wellness and mindful living has been a transformative one, shaping her life and guiding her towards a path of self-discovery and self-care. In 2019, Adeline embarked on a life-changing adventure by participating in yoga teacher training at the Africa Yoga Project (AYP). Located in Africa, AYP is a renowned organization that empowers individuals and communities through yoga. This immersive training experience exposed Adeline to various yoga disciplines and philosophies, deepening her understanding of the mind-body connection and the power of breath in facilitating personal growth and healing. Driven by her thirst for knowledge and her desire to explore different modalities of holistic well-being, Adeline also became a progressive student of Qigong and Breath-Body-Mind practices. Qigong is an ancient Chinese practice that combines movement, meditation, and breath control to cultivate and balance life energy, known as Qi. Through her dedication to these practices, Adeline continues to expand her understanding of the subtle energies within her body, allowing her to guide others on their own paths of inner harmony and vitality. Aside from her love for yoga and Qigong, Adeline is an enthusiastic dancer of Rwandan traditional dance called "AMARABA." This vibrant dance form, deeply rooted in Rwandan culture and heritage, captivates Adeline's heart and soul. Dancing AMARABA allows her to connect with her ancestral roots, express her creativity, and celebrate the joy and resilience of her heritage. As a yoga teacher, Adeline combines her extensive knowledge of yoga, Qigong, and Breath-Body-Mind practices to create transformative experiences for her students. Her classes are a harmonious blend of fluid movements, breath awareness, mindfulness, and spiritual connection. With a gentle and compassionate approach, she guides her students to explore their bodies and minds, nurturing a sense of self-awareness, inner strength, and overall well-being. Adeline's ultimate goal is to empower individuals to embrace their true selves and live a life of balance, harmony, and authenticity. Through her teachings, she aspires to create a supportive and inclusive community where people can find solace, inspiration, and personal growth. Whether on the yoga mat, in Qigong practice, or on the dance floor, Adeline invites others to join her in the beautiful journey of self-discovery and self-care.
Adeline Ingabire
Jean Pierre NSABIMANA is a dedicated individual who has pursued a career in teaching yoga and Qigong. His journey began in 2019 when he completed a 200-hour yoga teacher training program with the Africa Yoga Project, right after finishing high school. This training equipped him with the necessary skills and knowledge to teach yoga effectively. After completing his training, Jean Pierre dedicated himself to sharing the benefits of yoga with others. For three years, he taught both kids and adults, helping them develop their physical strength, flexibility, and mental well-being through yoga practice. His passion for teaching and his ability to connect with his students made him a popular and respected instructor in his community. In March 2023, Jean Pierre decided to expand his expertise and further enhance his teaching abilities by undertaking Qigong training. Qigong is an ancient Chinese practice that combines movement, breathing techniques, and meditation to cultivate and balance the body's energy. After completing the Qigong training, Jean Pierre gained the necessary knowledge and skills to teach and instruct both Qigong and yoga. With his diverse background in both yoga and Qigong, Jean Pierre is now able to offer a unique blend of practices to his students. His understanding of the principles and techniques of both disciplines allows him to tailor his classes and sessions to meet the specific needs and goals of his students. Whether they seek physical fitness, stress relief, or spiritual growth, Jean Pierre is well-equipped to guide and support them on their journey. Jean Pierre NSABIMANA's dedication to his own practice and his commitment to sharing the benefits of yoga and Qigong make him a valuable and inspiring teacher. His passion for holistic well-being and his ability to connect with his students make his classes and sessions both informative and transformative.
Jean Pierre NSABIMANA
Steven Hitiyise Eugene is a dedicated individual hailing from Rulindo District, specifically from the Masoro sector. He is Passionate about holistic well-being, he has immersed himself in various trainings to enhance both his personal growth and his ability to guide others towards a healthier and more balanced lifestyle. In April 2019, Steven completed an intensive 200-hour yoga teacher training program in Kenya. This immersive experience equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to teach yoga, enabling him to share the transformative power of this ancient practice with others. Through this training, he gained a deep understanding of yoga philosophy, asanas (postures), pranayama (breath control), meditation, and the art of mindful living. Driven by a desire to expand his expertise in mind-body well-being, Steven also pursued training in mind and body wellness. This comprehensive training broadened his understanding of the intricate connection between mental and physical health, emphasizing techniques and practices that promote holistic healing and self-care. With this knowledge, Steven is able to guide individuals on a path to achieve overall wellness and balance in their lives. Recognizing the importance of integrating alternative approaches to health, Steven further pursued training in meta-medicine. This specialized field focuses on understanding the underlying emotional, mental, and physical factors that contribute to illness and disease. Armed with this knowledge, he is equipped to provide a unique perspective and support individuals in identifying and addressing the root causes of their health challenges. With his diverse training background, Steven Hitiyise Eugene is committed to empowering individuals to live their best lives by nurturing their mind, body, and spirit. Through yoga instruction, mind-body well-being guidance, and meta-medicine insights, he strives to facilitate personal growth, inner healing, and the cultivation of a balanced and harmonious lifestyle.