Editor,

RE: "Artists, dancers give needy people a chance to smile” (The New Times, January 5).

It was touching to read the story about the Burundian refugees in Rwanda. Dancing Hearts, Le Partage and Immaculée Tany Ndegeya have shown one and all that where there is love there is hope.

The artists and dancers, together with the young, dynamic and enthusiastic 27-year-old Ndegeya, brought out the true meaning of the festive season by sharing their time and talent, not in just partying and merry making during the festive season, but with something very constructive, bringing solace to the Burundian refugees in Rwanda.

Being a radio presenter and at the same time a client advisor at a bank is enough to allow Ndegeya to advance the excuse that her hands are full already.

But as the age old saying goes, "Where there is a will there is a way”.  Ndegeya had the will and did find the way to reach out to our less fortunate brethren in the refugee camp.

Rwanda's beauty lies not just in the thousand verdant hills and the serene picturesque lakes, but more importantly in its beautiful people like Ndegeya and so many others who are always there to serve others when need arises.

Wishing Dancing Hearts, Le Partage and Ndegeya a very Happy New Year, with God's choicest blessings and the courage to carry on the great work they have done during this festive season, which has left many with smiles!

Clarence Fernandes