Shema Espérant, widely known as Shema Lyon on social media, has undergone a remarkable transformation from a shy schoolboy to a confident corporate leader and media personality. In an interview with Gaella Rutagengwa on Beyond the Scroll, a Kigali Today podcast, Shema shared his journey, revealing that his personality began changing during his Advanced Level studies. He became more socially active, played basketball, and gradually developed the confidence to interact freely with others.
Shema's early life was shaped by his Christian faith, and he served as a worship leader in church. His entry into media came shortly after completing high school, when he became a radio presenter at just 18 years old. This marked the beginning of a journey that would eventually make public communication part of his professional identity. Shema says he is particularly surprised by how comfortable he has become speaking publicly and engaging with people who recognize him through social media.
Despite his public visibility, Shema is careful about how much of his personal life he shares online. He estimates that his online presence represents about 75% of who he is, with the remaining 25% reserved for his private life. Shema explained that social media allows people to present selected aspects of themselves rather than their complete identities. He believes it's essential to maintain a level of privacy, especially when it comes to his family life.
Away from social media, Shema has built a career in the corporate world, working in the insurance industry as a commercial director. He also runs a financial consultancy company and is involved in podcasting. However, Shema says his identity is not defined by his professional responsibilities. He emphasized that he is first and foremost a Rwandan, a Christian, a father, and a family man.
Family is an essential part of Shema's identity, particularly his role as a father. He describes himself as a strict parent, which he believes may surprise people who mainly know him through his corporate and media engagements. Shema explained that leadership at work and parenting at home require different approaches, although both involve making decisions, listening, and providing direction.
Shema particularly emphasized the importance of guiding his daughters as they grow up. He described the experience of raising daughters as rewarding, saying girls bring a special kind of affection and care to family life. Shema believes that daughters are sweethearts, loving, and caring, and he takes his role as a father very seriously.
Despite his professional progress and growing public profile, Shema says he remains ambitious and believes there is still much to accomplish. He acknowledged that his journey has not been without failures, but said those experiences have helped him learn and develop. Shema is confident that his younger self would be proud of the man he has become, and he is grateful for the lessons gained from mistakes and difficult experiences.
Key points
- Shema Espérant's journey from a shy schoolboy to a corporate leader and media personality is a testament to personal growth and transformation.
