The Story of Nsengimana Jean D'amour (JD) and What Rugby Means to him.
The GM and Co-Founder of 1000 HILLS RUGBY,
the journey, values, and inspiration JD has brought to our community.
From Humble Beginnings to National Pride
JD’s journey began on the rugby pitches of Rwanda. Early in his career, he distinguished himself as great player, representing clubs such as: Lion de Fer, Remera Buffalos, and the Kigali Sharks. For many, these would be names on a jersey. For JD, they were platforms where he learned discipline, teamwork, and resilience, overcoming challenges and proving that no goal was ever out of reach.
The turning point? The 2012 Safari 7’s tournament in Nairobi, Kenya. Rwanda’s U20 rugby team defied all odds, storming to the finals and finishing as runners-up a result that shocked many but, most importantly, sparked dreams in those who wore the jersey that day. He was part of that teamhis leadership evident to all who watched.
The GM and Co-Founder of 1000 HILLS RUGBY,
the journey, values, and inspiration JD has brought to our community.
From Humble Beginnings to National Pride
JD’s journey began on the rugby pitches of Rwanda. Early in his career, he distinguished himself as great player, representing clubs such as: Lion de Fer, Remera Buffalos, and the Kigali Sharks. For many, these would be names on a jersey. For JD, they were platforms where he learned discipline, teamwork, and resilience, overcoming challenges and proving that no goal was ever out of reach.
The turning point? The 2012 Safari 7’s tournament in Nairobi, Kenya. Rwanda’s U20 rugby team defied all odds, storming to the finals and finishing as runners-up a result that shocked many but, most importantly, sparked dreams in those who wore the jersey that day. He was part of that teamhis leadership evident to all who watched.
Vision Born Out of Friendship and Belief
It was this moment of unexpected success that planted a new seed in him and his lifelong friend Shema Serge. Together, they shared a vision: Rugby as a tool to build community, teach values, and open doors for Rwanda’s next generation. Action was taken, and so the foundation for the organization was laid.
A Leader On and Off the Pitch
JD continued to play for Team. Having had the privilege to coach him, I saw how he shone as a game-changer—quiet yet compassionate, always ready to support teammates. What defined him was humility, curiosity, and work ethic.
He took on the tough responsibility of managing the club’s finances from its earliest days. He did so with precision, integrity, and transparency, ensuring every cent was accounted for and every decision made in the best interest of the team and community.
A Leader On and Off the Pitch
JD continued to play for Team. Having had the privilege to coach him, I saw how he shone as a game-changer—quiet yet compassionate, always ready to support teammates. What defined him was humility, curiosity, and work ethic.
He took on the tough responsibility of managing the club’s finances from its earliest days. He did so with precision, integrity, and transparency, ensuring every cent was accounted for and every decision made in the best interest of the team and community.
Seizing Opportunities Beyond Rugby
In pursuit of new skills, he attended a job readiness workshop by MindSky then a platform connecting young Rwandans to world-class training and employment. He took in knowledge, sharpened his resume, and grew his network.
Within months, he secured job offers that recognized his talent and drive.
1000 HILLS RUGBY life-skills training, coupled with his MindSky experience, opened the door to Power Resources International Ltd —a leading refinery company. JD rose, as the Operations Manager with the same attention to detail and people-first approach he brought to rugby.
Within months, he secured job offers that recognized his talent and drive.
1000 HILLS RUGBY life-skills training, coupled with his MindSky experience, opened the door to Power Resources International Ltd —a leading refinery company. JD rose, as the Operations Manager with the same attention to detail and people-first approach he brought to rugby.
He is one of many young people whose lives have been transformed because someone believed in their potential and gave them the tools to grow. But he stands out as a reminder that sport is about so much more than winning games. It’s about building character, unlocking opportunity, and planting seeds for future generations to thrive.
JD’s words: “Rugby gave me so much more than a medal. It gave me a family, confidence, discipline, and hope. Sport teaches us to work together, respect one another, and chase dreams.”
JD’s words: “Rugby gave me so much more than a medal. It gave me a family, confidence, discipline, and hope. Sport teaches us to work together, respect one another, and chase dreams.”