Speaking in Kigali on Saturday, August 2, 2025, during a panel titled “Beyond the Stage: A Creative Café”, DJ Etania said women must shift away from dependency and build confidence in their own abilities.
“In Uganda, I started a program to show young girls that they should not depend on men to make a living,” she said. “You shouldn’t keep thinking about what men will do for you or expect them to rescue you. That needs to stop.”
The event, held at the VIP Lounge of Amahoro Stadium, was organised by SEEV Africa in collaboration with MTN Rwanda, Intore Entertainment, and KONTENT. It was part of the Giants of Africa Festival, which brought together creatives from across East Africa, including musicians, arts entrepreneurs, government officials, and development partners.
Etania, 24, said she often encourages young women to take initiative rather than waiting for external support.
“You have to take your hands out of your pockets and work,” she said. “Don’t sit at home thinking a man is going to take care of your life. Women should be more present in industries like entertainment, which are still heavily dominated by men.”
She also emphasised that coming from a disadvantaged background should not be a limitation. Sharing her personal story, she noted that she was raised in a financially challenged household and had to push through difficult circumstances, including her mother’s severe illness.
“Being born in poverty should not define your future,” she said. “We should aim to create better lives for the generations that come after us.”
Paul Atwine, Executive Director of SEEV Africa, described the forum as a valuable space for collaboration between the creative sector and development stakeholders.
“The goal is to help Rwandan artists connect with international creatives, learn from their experience, and adopt successful business practices,” he said.
This was the second edition of Beyond the Stage, following a December 2024 session at Norrsken Kigali that featured Nigerian artists Ruger and Victony.
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