Dushimimana Jean de Dieu: From Music and Media to Mental Health Advocacy and Inner Peace

Music enthusiasts have known him for over a decade through hit songs such as “Gasaro ka Mama,” “Mabukwe” featuring Uncle Austin, and “Bakunda Umurambo.” In the media, he is widely recognized as Dashim and is also renowned for delivering impactful talks that resonate with many in their daily lives.

This young man’s name is Dushimimana Jean de Dieu. Born in the Karongi district of western Rwanda in 1991, he attended high school in his native region. He later completed his university studies at ICK, specializing in journalism.

In an interview with IGIHE, Dushimimana shared that after leaving the music industry, he shifted his focus to journalism. He initially wrote for the newspaper Imirasire and subsequently worked with several radio stations, including Hot FM, Radio 1, Flash FM, BTN, Fine FM, and Radio/TV10, where he is currently employed.

Music Was Always in His Blood

Dashim explained that art runs in his family, citing his uncle Bizimana Loti, a well-known artist. “Music is in my family. I grew up with a famous artist—my uncle Bizimana Loti. Having a family member who was celebrated in the arts gave me the courage to pursue singing. I also participated in choirs, composed some songs that became popular, directed choirs, and even founded some of my own.”

He further shared that he wrote poems during campaigns promoting AIDS awareness, describing this as a natural gift from childhood. “After finishing high school in 2011, I made my first song with the help of Lick Lick. It was called ‘Gasaro ka Mama.'”

Although he no longer produces music as a singer, he continues to inspire others through his writing and advocacy.

The Origin of the ‘Ijambo ryahindura Ubuzima‘

Dashim revealed that he initially entered the entertainment industry with high hopes but soon realized there were gaps in the offerings. “I loved reading books, but I found my true calling when I was given a daytime talk show. It was a challenging time, not just on radio but in many aspects of life. During that period, other stations aired music shows and movie reviews.”

This inspired him to create content that could genuinely help people gain knowledge, primarily through discussing lessons from books. “I saw that reading and discussing books can be impactful. That’s why I launched a talk show called ‘House of Books.’ “INZU Y’IBITABO”. While many media programs exist, I chose to focus on education because, in today’s distracted world, people need meaningful content. People often tell me that over 70% of what they see in movies and other media is shameful.”

This passion for education led to a project he calls “Ijambo ryahindura Ubuzima,” a short series aimed at enlightening the audience. “People rarely meet to study together, but they do gather to have fun. So, I launched the ‘Ijambo ryahindura Ubuzima Summit’—a face-to-face platform for sharing advice and lessons.”

Dashim emphasized that many overlook the importance of such discussions. “Some ask who would listen to a life-changing speech. But we forget that teaching is a powerful way to learn ourselves. I don’t believe it’s too late to make a difference.”

Positive Impact of ‘Ijambo ryahindura Ubuzima‘

He shared inspiring testimonials about the program’s effect. “I’ve received calls, like from a woman named Mama Dashim, who said she was on the verge of committing suicide until she heard one of our broadcasts. That message changed her life.”

Harnessing Yoga and Meditation for Mental Health

Dashim also discussed his current work in mental health, which involves a meditation method he developed called “Thankful, Optimistic & Satisfaction” (TOS). This approach helps individuals view life positively and achieve inner satisfaction. He established the Dash Dash Yoga Center in Gikondo, where people come to practice meditation under his guidance.

He explained, “During research abroad, I discovered a form of meditation that we introduced to Rwanda. Many associate meditation with art, but ours is different. It’s an integrated practice that can help people through difficult times or mental health struggles. Inner peace is essential; if you seek peace, look within yourself first. External wealth means little if your inner world isn’t at peace.”

He emphasized that “peace” is the foundation of true well-being. “Love, contentment, and peace are the food of the soul. You can have money but still feel sad. Meditation helps satisfy the soul. Our TOS Meditation resembles prayer, combined with gratitude—something familiar to many Africans raised in religious environments.”

Dashim recently conducted research in countries like Sri Lanka and is currently writing a book about TOS Meditation, available soon in both English and Kinyarwanda. He also has numerous unpublished documents that may inspire future publications.

Future Aspirations

Dashim continues to explore the potential of meditation and education to improve mental health and personal development. His work aims to empower individuals to find inner peace and resilience amid life’s challenges.

Source: IGIHE