Wedding Day

Christian Life Assembly (CLA) Rwanda

Ceremony

Green Hills Academy Hall

Reception

Our Wedding

Sonia & Jado: Our Love Story

Our story begins in 2008, when my family traveled from Burundi to visit relatives in Rwanda. Although Jado and I never met face-to-face during that visit, his family shared a close bond with my extended family—a quiet thread God was already weaving long before we realized it. In 2009, Jado moved to Burundi to pursue his undergraduate studies in business. There, he met my older brother, Gad, and they quickly connected through their shared love for music—Gad on the guitar and Jado as a singer-songwriter. They served together on the university worship team. I had just begun medical school at the same university. While Jado and I crossed paths a few times on university campus, we did not have a chance to get to know each other better before he returned to Rwanda in 2014. In 2016, shortly after I completed medical school, Jado sent me a simple but heartfelt message on Facebook: “Congratulations, Dr. Sonia! All the best for the future!”Neither of us imagined how deeply those words would one day ring true or how closely our futures would eventually intertwine.For many years, we lived far apart—different countries, different continents—yet Facebook kept a steady bridge between us. We exchanged greetings, encouragement, and celebrated each other’s milestones from afar. At the time, they felt like small, ordinary interactions, but God was gently preparing something extraordinary. In July 2025, we reconnected on Facebook, and it quickly became clear that the timing was divine. What began as a casual catch-up call soon grew into sincere conversations about Kingdom marriage between two intentional hearts. Over the following weeks, our discussions deepened—rooted in honesty, maturity, shared values, and aligned purpose. We recognized a mutual desire to honor God and be deliberate with every step. With peace in our hearts, we moved forward and began this beautiful journey of love together. Our story is a testimony of God’s perfect timing—how He brings lives together in ways we may not understand in the moment, but always for His glory. We are grateful that our relationship is grounded not in outward things but in biblical principles that continue to guide and strengthen us. We would be honored to have you celebrate with us as we proclaim God’s faithfulness and join our lives in marriage on May 23, 2026, in Kigali, Rwanda.

Our Story

Photos

Bridesmaids

My cherished Matron of Honor, Cynthia is a rare and extraordinary soul - truly one of a kind. She carries a deep heart for kingdom marriage, embodying values of faith, love, and devotion that inspire everyone around her. I could not imagine walking through this journey without her steadfast presence.

Cynthia’s nature is loving, caring, and endlessly supportive. She uplifts me with encouragement, celebrates my joys as her own, and stands beside me with unmatched loyalty. Her gentle strength and compassionate spirit make her not only a treasured friend but also a guiding light throughout this season of my life.


Cynthia 

My childhood best friend and truly more like a sister. Neyla has a radiant soul and embodies genuine friendship. She celebrates my victories and blessings as if they were her own, always standing beside me with joy and sincerity. Her heartbeat support and authenticity make her presence in my life irreplaceable.

Neyla 

My beloved sister and confidante. Belyse carries a calm spirit that brings peace and reassurance to everyone around her. She is endlessly supportive in every way, offering strength, encouragement, and love whenever it is needed. Her quiet grace and loyalty are a constant source of comfort.

Belyse

My sister-in-love, whom I am honored to call my little sister and friend. Fanny has a gentle spirit, a caring nature, and a heart devoted to serving others. Her kindness and compassion shine through in all she does, making her a true blessing in our family and in my life.

Fanny

My bonus sister, a beautiful reminder that family is not always defined by blood but by the people who choose to love and support you. Emma’s loving and supportive nature reflects the true meaning of sisterhood. Her presence is a gift, and I am grateful for the bond we share.

Emma

Groomsmen

Alexandre and I have been close friends for 19 years, ever since my third year of high school. He entered my life during a season when I had personally decided to follow Jesus with intention and sincerity. From that moment and being more spiritually mature than me, he became my confidant, prayer partner, spiritual counselor, and dearest friend. We have prayed countless prayers together - moments that shaped my spiritual life in ways I can never fully express. There is truly no one I would rather have stand beside me as my best man on this special day.

Alexandre

Danny is not only my younger brother by blood, but my closest friend and trusted guide. He has stood with me through life’s hardest seasons, reminding me of God’s purpose for my life. Having him by my side as I say my vows is a true blessing.

Daniel (Danny)

Gad is my brother-in-law-to-be, but he has felt like a brother long before I ever knew I would join his family. We met in college, quickly became friends, and bonded through music. He believed in my talent before I ever did. He is Sonia's best friend, and I am very blessed to have him stand with me. 

I have known Peter since primary school - one of my very first best friends. Through him, I learned unconditional love, patience, and perseverance. He is among the few friends who remained close from childhood through all the chaos of life, and I am honored to have him stand with me.

Peter

Eugene and I met in 5th or 6th year of high school. Although we came from the same hometown, we did not know each other personally until he introduced himself and we began praying together. Since then, we have shared countless prayers - moments that deeply strengthened and shaped my spiritual life. Over time, he became a brother to me. He sacrificed for my sake and walked with me through some of the most difficult moments of my life. I am forever grateful to him. Eugene, may your light keep shining, brother.

Eugene

Wedding Party

Q + A

Hotel Options

Located in Kigali, a 3-minute walk from Kigali Convention Centre, Radisson Blu Hotel &amp; Convention Centre Kigali has accommodations with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a fitness center and a garden. Each room at the 5-star hotel has city views, and guests can enjoy access to a bar and to a tennis court. The property provides a 24-hour front desk, airport transportation, a shared lounge and free WiFi throughout the property. The hotel will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms offering a desk, an electric tea pot, a fridge, a minibar, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a terrace and a private bathroom with a shower. Some rooms also feature a kitchen with a dishwasher, an oven and a microwave. All rooms feature a closet. Guests at Radisson Blu Hotel &amp; Convention Centre Kigali can enjoy a buffet breakfast. At the accommodation you'll find a restaurant serving African, Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free options can also be requested. Radisson Blu Hotel &amp; Convention Centre Kigali has a playground. The hotel features amenities such as an on-site business center and sauna. Popular points of interest near Radisson Blu Hotel &amp; Convention Centre Kigali include Kigali Centenary Park, Inema Art Centre and Ivuka Arts Studio. Kigali International Airport is 3.1 miles from the property.

Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, Kigali

Within walking distance of several embassies, Kigali Marriott Hotel offers luxurious accommodations in downtown Kigali. Featuring on-site convention space and meeting rooms, this hotel also offers free WiFi access. Each room at Kigali Marriott features floor-to-ceiling windows and a private balcony with a seating area. The rooms are equipped with flat screen HDTVs and a mini-bar. The marble bathrooms are fitted with a shower, with slippers and free toiletries provided for your comfort. Cucina Restaurant at Kigali Marriott serves innovative Italian cuisine, while the Lobby Bar is the place to unwind with a cocktail overlooking the city. Pamper yourself with a variety of treatments at the Saray Spa, keep active at the fitness center or relax by the poolside. Kigali Mariott guests benefit from a 24-hour front desk, concierge service and currency exchange services. Shuttle services and car hire can also be arranged. The Kigali Genocide Memorial is within a 10-minute drive of the hotel, while the Kigali International Airport is 7.5 mi away. The Ivuka Arts Studio is within 4.3 mi.

Kigali Marriott Hotel

Located in Kigali, a 3-minute walk from Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial, Kigali Serena Hotel has accommodations with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a fitness center and a garden. Each room at the 5-star hotel has city views, and guests can enjoy access to a terrace and to a sauna. The property provides a 24-hour front desk, airport transportation, a shared lounge and free WiFi throughout the property. All rooms at the hotel come with air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a safety deposit box and a private bathroom with a shower, free toiletries and a hairdryer. The rooms come with an electric tea pot, while selected rooms also feature a balcony and others also feature pool views. All guest rooms feature a desk. Kigali Serena Hotel offers a buffet or American breakfast. At the accommodation you'll find a restaurant serving African, American and Indian cuisine. Dairy-free, kosher and vegan options can also be requested. Kigali Serena Hotel has a wellness area with a hot tub. Niyo Arts Gallery is 3.7 miles from the hotel, while Kigali Centenary Park is 4.1 miles from the property. Kigali International Airport is 6.8 miles away.

Kigali Serena Hotel

Ride-hailing apps such as&nbsp;Yego Cab&nbsp;and&nbsp;Move&nbsp;are reliable and widely used. Hotel transfers are also available. If you'd like to rent your own car while here, reach out to Danny or Jado for assistance and guidance.

Transportation

Travel

A Christian social enterprise helping underserved women with skills and stable employment. This is where Jado spends most time weekly as the Managing Director.&nbsp;

Itara Studio

A vibrant contemporary art space showcasing local and international artists.

Inema Arts Centre

Nyandungu Eco-Park is&nbsp;a beautifully restored urban wetland in Kigali, Rwanda, transformed into a 121-hectare green space for nature, recreation, and education, offering walking/cycling trails, amazing birdwatching (over 100 species!), medicinal gardens, and relaxation spots with ponds and a restaurant, making it cool to visit for escaping the city, learning about ecosystems, and enjoying accessible outdoor activities for all ages.&nbsp;

Nyandungu Eco-Park

Fazenda Sengha is one of Kigali’s top outdoor adventure spots, offering horseback riding, zip-lining, quad biking, archery, paintball, and more - all with stunning views of Mount Kigali and the Nyabarongo valley. Things to do here include: Horseback riding: Choose between arena rides for beginners or scenic trail rides across Mount Kigali.Zip-lining: Glide through the air and enjoy panoramic views of Kigali’s hills.Archery: Test your aim with modern archery setups, perfect for friendly competition.Quad biking: Explore rugged trails on ATVs for an adrenaline-filled adventure.Paintball: Team up with friends for action-packed paintball matches in nature.Bungee trampoline: Jump high, try flips, and feel the thrill of bouncing above the ground.Pétanque &amp; badminton: Relax with lighter games that are fun for families and groups.Restaurant &amp; bar: Enjoy grilled food, burgers, wraps, and salads while overlooking the Nyabarongo valley and Virunga mountains.Picnics &amp; scenic views: Bring your own picnic or relax on the terrace surrounded by fresh air and greenery. Key detailsLocation: Mont Kigali, just 15 minutes from Kigali city center.Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily.Atmosphere: Family-friendly, spacious, and surrounded by nature.

Jado & Sonia

Jado & Sonia

Q + A

When and where is the wedding?

What is the dress code?

Can I bring a plus one?

Are children invited?

What about gifts?

Who can I contact with questions?