He may be only 16 years old but Rwandan youngster Tabrez Cyusa is already making his mark on the international stage as he continues to show what his volleyball talent can offer.

Born in Kirehe District, Nyakarambi sector, Cyusa is among 500 young talents who attended the National Talent Week organised by the Ministry of Sports through Isonga project. The three-day talent showcase initiative took place in Huye and Gisagara Districts from October 31 to November 3.

Cyusa’s volleyball journey began at a tender age, encouraged by his Rwandan mother and Indian father. He grew up in a family of four children, with a strong sense of discipline and ambition that would soon lead him to stand out among Rwanda&039;s budding athletes.

Cyusa started playing volleyball when he was just seven years old, taking on the role of libero while still in primary school. His natural skill and dedication caught the attention of coaches at his school and, by the time he went to secondary school at Groupe Scolaire Officiel de Butare, his potential was undeniable.

In 2022, at only 13, he was selected to join Isonga program, a key turning point in his volleyball journey.

"Isonga program introduced me to serious training and gave me access to coaches who shaped my career,” Cyusa told Times Sport.

"It helped me improve my skills and build discipline, which I think are essential in volleyball and life.”

By age 16, these lessons bore fruit as he represented Rwanda for the first time in the U18 National Youth Championship held in Tunisia.

"At first, I was nervous because being a 16-year-old libero in an international competition was daunting, but I’m proud that I overcame that fear and represented my country,” he said.

Cyusa attributes much of his success to his team at Groupe Officiel de Butare and the supportive framework of Isonga Program. The program not only focused on athletic ability but instilled discipline and resilience qualities he believes are vital for any athlete's growth.

Beyond his competitive achievements, Cyusa’s story also features the support of his parents.

"My parents encouraged me to play, but they also emphasized the importance of balancing my studies and sports,” he said.

The rigorous environment at Groupe Scolaire Officiel de Butare tested his resolve, but it also fueled his drive to excel both academically and athletically.

Looking ahead, Cyusa dreams of playing in the Arab national league and draws inspiration from Japanese volleyball star Tomohiro Yamamoto, also a libero.

"Playing as a libero requires a lot of agility and precision, and watching Yamamoto inspires me to reach that level of expertise,” he said.

He sees MINISPORTS’ National Talent Week as an invaluable platform for young athletes like himself.

"This event helps us not only improve as players but also make connections and learn from one another,” he said.

He believes that such experiences are key to developing a resilient mindset capable of facing any challenge in the sports career.