Kenza Johanna Ameloot, crowned Miss Belgium 2024, has not only charmed her home country but has also found a special place in her heart for Rwanda, her mother’s homeland. During her recent visit to Rwanda, Kenza opened up about her connection to the country, her passion for charity work, and her excitement about Rwanda’s growing influence on the global stage—particularly in the realm of sports.
Miss Kenza Johanna Ameloot, a 22-year-old Belgian with Rwandan heritage, recently captured the title of Miss Belgium 2024, outshining nearly 2,000 contestants.
Miss Kenza born to a Rwandan mother named Gakire Joselyne, and a Belgian father.
She is now a third-year International Business student and a fashion model.
During her stay, Kenza shared how she grew up listening to Rwandan music, including the popular track “Igipimo” by Meddy, a Rwandan artist. The song, which holds sentimental value for her, reflects the deep-rooted connection she has maintained with her Rwandan heritage. This bond became even more evident during her trip, as she reflected on the sense of community she has always admired about Rwanda.
“For my whole life, what stands out the most for me in Rwanda is the way people help each other,” Kenza said. “Your neighbor is family, your doctor is family—everyone helps each other. It’s a community that grows at a very strong pace because they help each other out.”
Rwanda’s community spirit, combined with its growing international presence, is something Kenza feels particularly proud of. Next year, Rwanda will host the 2025 UCI Road World Championships, making it the first African nation to do so. The prestigious cycling event is a significant milestone for Rwanda and for the entire African continent. Kenza’s excitement was palpable as she expressed her enthusiasm for the event.
“As a Belgian, cycling is a huge part of our culture. Every Belgian I know watches cycling all weekend long. Now, I can see it happening in my mother country. For me, it’s a blessing, and I am very proud.”
This historic event not only symbolizes Rwanda’s growing role in global sports but also signals a new era for African countries in international competitions.
Kenza’s visit to Rwanda isn’t just about cycling or reconnecting with her roots; it’s also about making a difference in the lives of others. As part of her Miss Belgium platform, Kenza has chosen to work with “Light for the World,” a charity organization dedicated to combating blindness in Africa. She specifically highlighted their work in addressing cataracts, a common cause of blindness, particularly in the elderly.
“There are elderly people who have cataracts on their eyes and become blind. This means they cannot take the bus to the market, do chores, or even see their family. But these people can get an operation almost immediately, and 24 hours later, they can see again,” Kenza explained.
For Kenza, this charity work is personal. When she became Miss Belgium, she had the opportunity to choose a cause close to her heart, and she instantly knew she wanted to support Rwanda. “I wanted to help my mother country,” she said, expressing her determination to bring about tangible change.
Kenza Johanna Ameloot’s story is one of unity, heritage, and hope. As Miss Belgium, she carries the legacy of both Belgium and Rwanda with pride, using her platform to highlight the beauty of both nations. Her work with “Light for the World” and her support for Rwanda’s growing international stature are just a few ways she is bridging the gap between her dual identities.
As Rwanda prepares to host the world cycling championships and continues its rapid development, Kenza is right there, celebrating the progress and contributing to the nation’s growth. Through her charity efforts and her public support for Rwandan culture, she is not only a role model but also a beacon of hope for the future of Rwanda and Africa as a whole.
