Fleeing the turmoil of the ongoing Russia\u2013Ukraine war, they sought peace, security, and a better future for their families after the war broke out in early 2022.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt was really hard for me as a citizen of Russia to acknowledge this,\u201d James recalls. \u201cI had three kids, a beautiful wife, and we wanted to move on to a life of security and peace. And we found this in the middle of Africa, in Rwanda, Kigali.\u201d<\/p>\n
James and Boris arrived in Kigali in 2023. They spent the first few months exploring the city and understanding their surroundings before deciding to make Rwanda their permanent home. <\/p>\n
\u201cFirst three months, we just looked around to the left and right and then understood that we want to stay here. Rwanda is one of the most welcoming countries so far,\u201d James says. <\/p>\n
His previous experience of travelling extensively in 12 countries over eight years gave him a unique perspective on what makes a country feel like home. But he admits that it was Rwanda\u2019s warmth and sense of safety that convinced them to stay.<\/p>\n
With their shared passion for cooking, James and Boris dreamed of creating something special. <\/p>\n
\u201cMe? I\u2019m not so smart, to tell you the truth. I\u2019m just a cook,\u201d he jokes. \u201cBut I love making something good, seeing people smile, and sharing that joy with others.\u201d <\/p>\n
The duo’s dream led them to open Burger Bros in Kisimenti, which quickly grew from a small street cart into one of Kigali\u2019s most popular burger restaurants.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe served over 200 burgers at a festival once. Even more, I think 300 burgers,” he recalls.<\/p>\n
Burger Bros\u2019 approach emphasises fresh, high-quality ingredients and handmade components, including their secret spice mix and signature sauces.<\/p>\n
The restaurant\u2019s growth was fueled by teamwork and mentorship. Key team members like Jimmy Hakizimana were recruited for their dedication and talent.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe used to cook for me sombe (Cassava leaves). I taught him a lot of the things that I know. Now he\u2019s a monster, a professional in our kitchen,\u201d James says proudly. <\/p>\n
Today, with 34 employees, Burger Bros continues to thrive while fostering a family-like atmosphere for staff and customers alike.<\/p>\n
James\u2019 personal philosophy also drives the restaurant\u2019s culture. \u201cMy mother and father would always say, if I did something good, they\u2019d be like, \u2018Good boy, good boy.\u2019 I grew up with this notion. When people give me money, I\u2019m delighted, of course, because I give it to my beautiful family, for school, for education, for food, for everything. But the main thing for me is the smile of the person. I want to feel the same thing as I got from my father and mother. It\u2019s as easy as that.\u201d<\/p>\n
Legacy is another central theme for James and Boris. \u201cI\u2019m a simple cook, but I\u2019ve always thought a lot about legacy. When we pass on what we know, the people we teach can share it with the next generation, and then the next. That\u2019s how we preserve what we\u2019ve built. For me, that\u2019s a kind of immortality,” he adds.<\/p>\n
For the duo, Rwanda is more than a place to live; it\u2019s home. They are grateful to the government for creating a welcoming environment and hope to become Rwandan nationals one day. <\/p>\n
\u201cThe message for the Rwandan government is, you\u2019re doing a good job. We love you guys. Keep it up. We want more of this. And the second one is, we want the nationality. We want to be Rwandans. Mr. Kagame, president number one. We\u2019re waiting for you at Burger Bros. {Karibu. Murakaza neza} (welcome),\u201d James says with a smile.<\/p>\n
{{Watch the full video below.}}<\/p>\n