Muraho neza means “hello” in Kinyarwanda, so muraho neza to you!
My name is Anya Ruzicka (she/her) and I am a 2026-27 Fulbright English Teaching Assistant in Rwanda. This means that I am living in Rwanda (a small country in East Africa) and teaching the English language to students just like you! Growing up, I moved around to different places in the United States about every two years with my five siblings and my parents due to my father’s job in the military. My family and I would ride around in the gold 12-passenger van around the country, singing in the van, going to different schools, and finding out who we are as human beings.
I found my love for theatre in middle school, and my love of teaching in high school. This past May, I finally became a licensed teacher! In my classroom, I use theatre activities to build language skills, and boost confidence in students. Working with local teachers in Rwanda, I hope to inspire students to find their voices, believe in themselves, and embrace learning as a path to opportunity. In Rwanda, I also hope to work on the Ubumuntu (humanity in Kinyarwanda) Arts Festival that happens once a year in Rwanda, as well as explore the country and meet new people. I can’t wait to share my experiences with you soon!
Want to learn how you could be a Fulbright Scholar like me? The Fulbright Program is the United States government's flagship international exchange program. Fulbrighters foster mutual understanding between the United States and partner nations, share knowledge across communities, and improve lives around the world. Learn more by clicking here!
