Film directing in Rwanda has over the years been a man’s land until, in the mid-2010s, women filmmakers, though few, realized that it is no doubt a new gold worth exploring.

Ines Girihirwe is one of the very few women in the coutnry walking the talk since she became a film director.

The 26-year-old has been carving out her path in filmmaking since 2017, bringing fresh perspectives and stories to the screen.

Born in Kimironko, Gasabo District, Girihirwe's journey into filmmaking began when she was exploring university options, unsure of which artistic path to pursue.

A visit to the East African University in Kigali changed everything.

The sight of students carrying cameras and filming equipment ignited a spark and she instantly knew she had found her calling. Following her newfound passion, Girihirwe enrolled in the university's filmmaking and film production program.

However, formal education was just the beginning, she believes determination and self-reliance to have become foundation of her career.

"Even though I went to a filmmaking school, I am who I am today because I had to find my own way through the industry," Girihirwe told The New Times.

Despite the challenges of working in a growing industry with limited support systems, Girihirwe's journey has been promising. She has already directed three short films and produced one, with two more in pre-production.

Her directorial debut, "Breaking Ground," which she released in 2021 has been screened at various prestigious events including the American Film Institute Festival, Uppsala Film Festival, and Seattle International Film Festival, among others. She has also directed ‘Umwali’ in 2022 and then produced ‘A Wingless Bird That Flies’ which was directed by Remy Ryumugabe in 2024.

Girihirwe highlighted how the success in the festival circuit has been crucial to her growth as a filmmaker. This exposure has not only elevated her work but also expanded her professional network.

While acknowledging the difficulties of working in an emerging film industry, Girihirwe is optimistic that with time the industry is showing signs of growing and the potential to increase the international appeal it deserves in the near future.

"It was hard because the film industry is still growing. However, I consider myself lucky because I met great people in the industry and was not taken advantage of or faced any challenges because I am a woman," she said.

Looking to the future, Girihirwe's ambitions continue to grow. Together with a colleague, she co-owns Kazi Productions, a company currently working on art projects slated for release by the end of 2024 or early 2025

She visions to make good films that she can be proud of, and believes she has the time and determination to achieve this goal.