Denise Gakire is a Rwandan actress who won the Best Actress award at the Rwanda Movie Awards in March this year. She is also the MD of an event organising company called Royal Entertainment Ltd. The mother of one spoke to Sharon Kantengwa about her acting career and the industry at large.          How did your acting career start?I always dreamed of being an actress from a young age and a friend eventually got me into the business. I have been acting for five years now but my first role was in Sakabaka, a TV series.

What kind of roles have you played throughout your career and which one is your favourite?I have been in various roles from support to principal. My favourite character was Sandra in Sakabaka.

What have you learned from the more senior actors that you have worked with?  How to approach different roles; this has greatly improved my acting.

How do film stars handle their popularity? Sometimes it is difficult as your privacy is violated and false stories are sometimes written about you. In the end, you just have to learn to ignore the negative things and concentrate on what’s good in your life and the people who follow you.

What has been your biggest achievement in the field of acting? Winning the Best Actress award for 2015/2016.

What is the hardest part about acting? Playing a character or role that is contrary to your own character because it is very difficult to relate to it.

 What is your philosophy in life?Whatever you do, you should give it 100 per cent and never give up.

What is that one thing that you wish you knew before starting an acting career?How difficult it is to break into the industry.

What is the strangest role you have ever played? I had to kiss somebody that I really don’t like.

Why do you think so many actors end up giving up on their dream?Because some start acting and then realise they don’t like it. Sometimes, they fall out with others in the industry or lack financial support while starting out.   editorial@newtimes.co.rw