Jules Rutayisire, hailing from Rwanda, has a remarkable story of perseverance and achievement. He became deaf due to meningitis, Jules has navigated through numerous challenges, emerging as a notable figure in both education and sports. 

Jules’s educational journey is a testament to his resilience. Without the benefit of interpreting services from high school, he pursued and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business IT from the University of Rwanda, graduating in July 2015. “Despite facing many challenges, I successfully graduated,” Jules shares.  

A passport picture of Jules smiling and posing. He’s wearing a dark red shirt, and his eyes are open.

His educational pursuits did not stop there. Jules participated in an International Leadership Training Program in Denmark, where Deaf students from 16 countries communicated using international signs. This experience enriched his understanding of Deaf studies and media, equipping him with the knowledge to contribute to Rwanda’s development. 

In addition to his academic accomplishments, Jules has made significant strides in sports. He is the first deaf athlete in Rwanda to achieve a 3 Dan black belt in karate, a milestone he reached in 2017. Competing alongside hearing players, Jules represented Rwanda in various championships across East Africa and Africa, including the Championship Karate Africa in Dakar, Senegal, in 2014. He was part of the Rwanda National Karate Team from 2010 to 2018. Although he missed the opportunity to participate in the Deaf Karate World Championship, it remains a dream he cherishes. 

Jules is proud of several personal and professional accomplishments. He has received numerous certificates from his karate endeavors and holds a certification from the International Deaf Youth Leadership Education Program in Denmark. “These achievements reflect my dedication and perseverance,” he notes. 

A passport picture of Jules smiling and posing. He’s wearing a dark red shirt and his eyes are closed.

To navigate daily life successfully, Jules has developed several strategies. He emphasizes effective communication through technology and visual aids. In education and learning, he relies on accessible materials and regular practice. Professionally, he values accommodations and networking. Jules also prioritizes community involvement, hobbies, and regular health check-ups. Daily planning with visual schedules and reminders helps him stay organized. Importantly, he practices self-advocacy by educating others and asserting his needs. 

One of the significant challenges Jules faced was embracing his identity as a deaf individual. “I remained confident in my abilities and didn’t see my deafness as a limitation,” he says. By raising awareness about Deaf culture and the importance of sign language, he has helped break down stereotypes and promote greater understanding. 

Jules has been involved in several notable projects. His efforts in advocating for the recognition of Rwandan Sign Language (RSL) have been significant. He has also worked on personalized learning initiatives and language learning projects, contributing to greater accessibility and inclusion. 

For Jules, Disability Pride Month is a time to advocate for greater accessibility, inclusion, and equal opportunities in all areas of life. “It helps challenge and break down stereotypes and misconceptions about disabilities,” he explains, promoting a more positive and accurate representation of people with disabilities. 

This year’s theme, “We Want a Life Like Yours,” deeply resonates with Jules. He advocates for empowerment, where individuals with disabilities have control over their lives and access to necessary support and resources to live independently and fulfil their potential. 

Jules believes that several aspects of life should be more accessible and inclusive for people with disabilities. These include education, employment, healthcare, public spaces, digital access, transportation, housing, social and cultural inclusion, and legal and policy frameworks. “Accessible learning materials, workplace accommodations, and inclusive public spaces are essential,” he emphasizes. 

Looking ahead, Jules has both personal and advocacy goals. Personally, he aims for continuous learning, building strong relationships, and maintaining health and well-being. In his advocacy work, he is committed to promoting accessibility and inclusion, raising awareness, supporting legislation, empowering individuals, and building inclusive communities. 

Jules’s story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that with determination and support, individuals with disabilities can achieve remarkable success and contribute significantly to their communities. 

By Linda Wairegi, Multimedia Project Manager