Back at the British Museum! Chantal Umuhoza, ITP 2018, Senior Fellow 2025

Written by Chantal Umuhoza, Curator, Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy (Rwanda, ITP 2018, Senior Fellow 2025)

Seven years ago, there was a turning point for my professional career when I got a chance of participating in the British Museum’s International Training Programme. The professionals I met at the British Museum, partner museums or my fellow mates; and the opportunity that the ITP provided me of having access to resourceful information through conferences, visits to different museums and online resources; all shaped my career in so many ways.

When I left the ITP, although I was so happy and eager to positively contribute to the success of museum sector in my country, I couldn’t think or believe that I would be back in London. Earlier this year, I received a nice message that I was selected to be the 2025 Senior Fellow. Oh my God, I couldn’t believe that it was true until yesterday when I arrived at Schafer house and I was given an entire flat to myself – I am the Senior Fellow!

This morning, I went back to the British Museum. There is this feeling, I don’t know how to describe it, when you first enter the great court and a lot of nice memories come back. I pictured myself and the other ITP 2018 fellows waiting for Jessica or Becca at the information desk, and I said time flies, it feels like yesterday. Yes, seven years is a lot but because we as fellows became like a family and kept in touch, you don’t realize that.

Of course, my first stop was at the Africa gallery before meeting George to discuss what next.

Just to let you know that I have safely arrived and I can’t wait to work together with the ITP team, this year’s fellows and to share with you all how the annual programme evolves.