Vanessa Ariane Irakoze, best known as Maya from the hit web series of the same name, recently clinched the coveted Best Iziwacu Actress award at the 10th Mashariki African Film Festival. The recognition marks a career-turning point for Irakoze, whose portrayal of Maya not only solidified her place as a household name but also redefined her professional trajectory.
Since her 2020 screen debut in The Secret, directed by Yves Mizero, Irakoze has steadily built an impressive acting portfolio. Her credits include fan-favorites like City Maid, Maya, and Ishusho ya Papa, among others.
Movies, for Irakoze, were more than escape; “they were transformative.” Inspired by their ability to transport her, she felt an undeniable pull to become part of the art of storytelling herself.
“It’s an incredible feeling to have my performance recognized. This award validates all the hard work and dedication I’ve put into my career, and speaks volumes about the encouragement and faith that so many have placed in me throughout my journey,” said Irakoze, reflecting on her win.
The award, she explains, has allowed her to showcase her talent to a wider audience, inspiring her to push boundaries and strive for excellence in every role she plays.
Her journey to success wasn’t without its challenges. She went through many auditions, dealt with rejections, and started with small roles. But each experience taught her valuable lessons and helped her grow. She also faced the unique difficulties of working in a small market and balancing her personal and professional life, which she says built her resilience.
Her big break came with the role of Maya, a character tied closely to her rising fame. This role opened doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and the confidence to take on more demanding roles.
“Playing this character allowed me to showcase my versatility and depth as an actress, and it captured a lot of attention from both audiences and industry professionals,” she explains.
Speaking specifically about her award-winning performance in ‘Maya,’ Irakoze shares that what drew her to the project was the story that relates to many girls her age and felt a strong connection to the character’s journey. She describes the most rewarding aspect as witnessing the audience’s emotional response to her performance, though she acknowledges the challenges of maintaining the role’s emotional intensity, which demanded significant mental and physical energy.
Looking ahead, Irakoze’s ambitions remain boundless. “I would love to explore a variety of roles across different genres, from intense dramas to action. Working with visionary filmmakers who challenge and inspire me is something I look forward to,” she said.
Currently, Irakoze is involved in an exciting new project titled ‘Hurts Harder,’ which she anticipates will add another compelling chapter to her growing portfolio. To aspiring actors following in her footsteps, she offers valuable advice: “Stay true to your passion and never give up, even when faced with challenges. Be open to learning and take every opportunity as a steppingstone. Surround yourself with supportive people who believe in you.”
