“The Making of a Surgeon”: A Documentary on Partnership, People, and Rwanda’s Healthcare Journey

The 25th and 26th May 2026, in both Uppsala and Gothenburg, were the setting for a deeply moving screening of The Making of a Surgeon, a documentary by Operation Smile that tells the story of Rwanda’s long and remarkable journey to rebuild its health system through investment in people. Directed by Dylan Williams, the film captures with humanity and care the inspiring work of Dr. Ntirenganya Faustin — representing the many surgeons, anaesthesiologists, nurses, residents, and supporting teams who spend countless hours in theatres and hospitals saving lives, restoring dignity, and giving hope to families.

At its heart, the film is also the story of patriotic Rwandan doctors and health professionals who trained abroad and chose to return home — to serve a country devastated by the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and to help rebuild its healthcare system from the ground up. That spirit of service and commitment is what makes lasting change possible.

What makes this journey even more meaningful is that it could not have happened without the Government of Rwanda’s consistent and full commitment to placing people at the centre of every sector’s rebuilding. Expanding geographic and financial access to care while investing in a skilled and dedicated workforce created the foundation upon which partnerships like Operation Smile could truly succeed. Even the strongest global partner cannot succeed without strong local systems and committed local professionals. Together, Operation Smile and Rwanda made it work.

The ambition to train 30 reconstructive surgery specialists by 2030 reflects not only a medical goal, but a vision for the future — one that aligns strongly with the Rwanda Ministry of Health’s 4x4 strategy to strengthen specialised healthcare and invest in the next generation of health professionals.

The Making of a Surgeon is a powerful reminder that behind every transformed life is a team that chose to care. It is a story about people, partnership, and hope — and a testament to what becomes possible when global solidarity meets local conviction.