26-year-old Olvis Mugabo is a vocalist with boy band Active. He likes movies, listening to music and hanging out with friends. The singer shared with Society Magazine’s Stephen Kalimba his thoughts on Valentine’s Day.

How would you explain Valentine’s Day to your grandmother?

It’s a day set aside for lovers. It’s a day when you need to do something exceptional for the one you love; something different from the other days.

What is your earliest Valentine’s Day memory?

I heard about it as a child but I didn’t have a girlfriend then of course.So when I grew up and got one, I had to do something.

I gave her a gift and we went out. She was happy and surprised because I didn’t tell her anything.That was three years ago.

Have you done anything out of the ordinary on that day?

Not really. I don’t think I’ve done anything out of the ordinary.

Some people only wait for this time of year to show their love, what’s your take on that?

This isn’t a day to just give your better half something; it’s a day to remember that you should always do something for the one you love.

If given the chance, which international celebrity would you take out for a date on Valentine’s Day?

That would be Alicia Keys. She has a great voice and she is beautiful. I like her personality and the way she carries herself. She seems very polite too.

Are you one of those Valentine’s Day theme colour followers?

Not me. The red and black theme isn’t a big deal for me. What matters is how you celebrate your love. You don’t need to follow those colours.

So you don’t have a special outfit set for the day?

What I need to do is be smart and look good. It’s not necessary to follow colours or go the extra mile.

Any message for the Valentine’s Day diehards?

Valentine’s Day shouldn’t be the only day you recognise your love for your partner; but do take it a notch higher. Also, to spice up your day, you can bring your loved one to the Soiree Des Amouruex Valentine’s Day show at the Mille Collines hotel on Saturday.

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