Baho: Stories of resilience and determination

In 1994 the world was shocked when over a million people were murdered in Rwanda by their neighbours and fellow citizens. Now, 30 years later, a Sydney-based group of survivors formed the non-for-profit organisation 'Kumva & Kwibuka' to raise awareness around the genocide against the Tutsi and its consequences. “Baho” (meaning “to live” in Kinyarwanda) is a multimedia exhibition showcasing these inspiring stories of triumph over trauma. 

From evocative portraits and traditional Rwandan artefacts, to video interviews and an interactive “propaganda machine”, all pieces in the exhibit work together to unfurl these individuals' stories, and an overarching narrative of resilience in the face of adversities such as media hate speech, being a refugee, and the responsibility carried by survivors. 

The exhibition takes place from July 31 until August 10 at the 107 gallery space, a cultural community hub in Redfern, Sydney. 107 is closed Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays.

Voluntary donations go to STARTTS (NSW Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors) to help finance the project and the Kumva & Kwibuka team.

The team organising this exhibit consists of artist/photographer Martina Reyes and her family, as well as the Kumva & Kwibuka team, with support from Thinkerbell and 107.