March 2025, vol 2, issue #5

SAFE VOL.2

Place

MAGAZINE

The Starting Line ADAPT BETTER SYSTEMS!!

N°5

March 2025

MAGAZINE DISCOVER THE POWER WITHIN

ELIORA BENERUGABA SAFE PLACE MAGAZINE

TABLE OF CONT ENT S

EDITOR’S LETTER

This issue is a playful exploration of that delicate balance between momentum and mindfulness.

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CRATERMOON PRODUCTION

a Maine-based production company known for its innovative music videos, short films, and ad work—is powered by the creative vision of its co-owners, Maxim and Uther.

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KENNY K-SHOT

I want to build a legacy of fearless Rwandan men and women just like our heroes taught us.

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THE STARTING LINE You’re doing great, give yourself some grace

4 DJ ELLIE

I am the I am that I am. A resource from the Source.

A creator with gifts from none but the Creator.

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GAMES AND FACTS

did you know about these facts? hmm cap enjoy some games and take the chance to relax your mind.

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Safe.

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Dear reader

Editor’s letter

Welcome to our newest issue, where we kick off the year with a fresh perspective on beginnings under the theme “The Starting Line.” In life, it’s all too easy to rush headlong into the chaos—sprinting before we’ve even tied our shoes. But here at Safe Place, we believe that sometimes, the most courageous act is to pause, take a breath, and appreciate the moment right before the race begins.

Think of it like warming up: before your heart pounds in a mad dash, allow yourself a brief moment of stillness—a chance to recalibrate and appreciate how far you’ve come. It’s not about standing still indefinitely; rather, it’s about honoring that crucial moment of preparation before you burst into action.

Whether you’re contemplating a new career path, mending a relationship, or simply recharging your soul, every starting line has its own unique grace.

This issue is a playful exploration of that delicate balance between momentum and mindfulness. Expect to find stories of everyday heroes who’ve learned that taking one measured step back can be the most strategic move of all. We’ve gathered insights, shared laughs, and even uncovered a few quirky metaphors (because who doesn’t love a good running pun now and then?) to remind you that the power of a pause is not weakness—it’s wisdom.

So lace up your mental sneakers and get ready to explore the art of starting over. May this issue inspire you to embrace your own starting line, no matter how winding the road ahead.

And remember: sometimes, the longest journey begins with a single, intentional pause.

Happy reading, and here’s to running your own race—at just the right pace.

Warmly, The Editor Safe Place Magazine

n o n r a G

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CRATERMOON PRODUCTIONS

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CRATERMOON A

MAINE-BASED

COMPANY

KNOWN

PRODUCTIONS;

PRODUCTION FOR

ITS

INNOVATIVE MUSIC VIDEOS, SHORT FILMS, AND AD WORK—IS POWERED

BY THE CREATIVE VISION OF ITS CO-

OWNERS, MAXIM AND UTHER. IN THIS

EXTENSIVE CONVERSATION, THE TWO ARTISTS INTERVIEW EACH OTHER ABOUT THEIR CREATIVE PURPOSE, THE

SPARK THAT IGNITED THEIR PASSION, THE CHALLENGES OF WORKING WITH

LIMITED RESOURCES, AND THE TEAM DYNAMICS THAT KEEP THEIR ARTISTIC FIRE BURNING.

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They began their day in a relaxed mood, greeting each other with genuine warmth. The casual “Ready? Nice to see you” sets the tone for an honest exchange about the meaning of creativity.

For both, the heart of their work is not about flashy production values but about stirring feelings: Maxim reflects simply, “That’s what it’s all about,” while Uther explains his mission: 8

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“I want to create stuff to make people feel something. I like to create feeling.” Their commitment to authenticity is evident as they discuss the gradual evolution of their artistic visions— from the uninhibited curiosity of childhood, fueled by shows like Avatar: The Last Airbender, to the electrifying energy of live concerts that sparked Uther’s passion for music.

The duo recalls the early days when budget constraints were a constant companion. With no money to spare, every project was a lesson in ingenuity. “ We do have the structure now.

We’re able to move forward. I think I finally got it,” Maxim remarks, capturing the breakthrough that came from working within limitations. Uther adds that

the lack of funds forced them to think outside the box: “You just have to be creative and push yourself a little bit in order to get out of the trap where you’re like, oh, I have no budget. I can’t do this.” Their resourcefulness—relying on a close-knit team of friends and making the most of limited equipment—became the catalyst for their growth as filmmakers.

THE E S O L O ANT T DRIVE THAT W T ' N O D "I THE D N A HAT W T N S I E M S E I T H I EXC FUN. T ."

L L A T I MAKES BRINGS ME JOY Uther

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T WE'RE HA W E E S O T E PL O PE "I WANT G FROM IN M O C E R ' E W T HA T DOING, PORTLAND, MAINE."

Max

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On set, the challenges of of endurance. “I couldn’t despite its discomfort, extreme conditions and stand, walk, sit down bonded the team togethphysical strain provided without pain... I had pins er. These experiences unboth hardships and and needles through my derscore their belief that moments of dark humor. whole leg,” Uther recalls, every setback is simply One scorching May day, while Max laughs about another step in the crethe heat turned every repeatedly falling on the ative process. filming session into a test ground, a moment that,

Teamwork and communication emerge as the backbone of their journey. In a world where schedules clash and roles constantly shift, Maxime stresses the importance of genuine collaboration: “I don’t want to come off like a boss.

Because we’re all friends outside of Creative Moon.”

Uther echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that “communication is like the main thing too. Like making sure everybody’s on the same page.” Their shared vision for the future

involves not only pushing the boundaries of narrative storytelling but also nurturing a creative environment where every member grows—whether they’re directing, editing, or even learning the basics with an iPhone.

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CRATER

RMOON

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JUSF**K ST AY IT

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THROUGHOUT THEIR CONVERSATION, THE RAW ENERGY AND UNYIELDING DETERMINATION OF MAXIM AND UTHER SHINE THROUGH. THEIR WORDS PAINT A PICTURE OF TWO CREATIVES WHO ARE UNAFRAID TO EMBRACE TRIAL AND ERROR, WHO UNDERSTAND THAT EVERY MOMENT—WHETHER BORN OF SUCCESS OR STRUGGLE—ADDS TO THE LARGER STORY OF CRATERMOON PRODUCTIONS.

WITH DREAMS OF REFINING THEIR STORYTELLING AND EXPANDING THEIR CREATIVE HORIZONS, THEY CONTINUE TO CHALLENGE THEMSELVES TO “CREATE THINGS IN THE WAY [THEY] SEE IT” AND TO KEEP THAT YOUTHFUL SPARK ALIVE, NO MATTER THE OBSTACLES. SAFE PLACE MAGAZINE

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enjoyminagkelifsuer,edyou still as serious. Anodn’t take it curious, just be

Uther

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Q. LET’S SAY YOU’RE WRITING A LETTER TO YOUR FUTURE SELF. WHAT PIECE OF ADVICE WOULD YOU TUCK AWAY FOR THE CRATERMOON OF TOMORROW?

make sur you still enjoying life,e don take it as serious. And’t just be curious,

Maxim SAFE PLACE MAGAZINE

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KENNY K-SHOT

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHAEL NZUNGIZE 18

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Can you describe your earliest memory of music or writing, and how that moment sparked your creative journey?”

My earliest memory of music was the music on Rwanda television when I was a kid, we only had one channel that used to put all kinds world music, from hiphop to Rnb. The more I became conscious the more I figured which music I was into, which was Hiphop.

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“How has growing up in Kigali influenced your music, and what elements of Rwandan culture do you feel are most important to your sound?”

Growing up in Kigali has deeply shaped my music as in the evolution and development of the city, the energy, people’s vibes, the blends of slangs and traditional sounds with modern influences.

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Nowadays I try to bring elements of Rwandan culture like rhythms,style, the language of Kinyarwanda into my music because that’s where I’m from, and it’s an essential part of who I am “What was it about hip-hop that resonated with you, and how did you decide it was the perfect medium for expressing your truth?”

Hiphop is the most honest and rawest form of expression to me.

Growing up I used to listen to hiphop and felt all the emotions the artist had put in there, almost as If I was the one that wrote it.

At first I was interested in breakdancing but at 14 years old that’s when I decided to fully focus on writing raps and being serious about music cause it was the only way I could express myself fully.

KIVUMBI & KENNY CHOPPIN IT UP

“When you sit down to write a new song or poem, what is your process like? How do you transform personal experiences into powerful lyrics?”

Firstly I identify the emotions Im feeling at the moment and I sincerely want to address, after that is done I then look for a unique way to articulate my thoughts and emotions in a way that is going to be relatable,and authentic, which is something I try to perfect everyday.

“Every artist faces obstacles—what are some of the challenges you’ve encountered on your journey, and how did you overcome them while staying true to yourself?”

As a Rwandan kid, I think we were programmed to think that success belongs to others not Rwandans or if you are Rwandese you have to be highly educated, it’s that or nothing. So, when I decided to take music seriously,also considering the fact that I started making music in English only in a community that couldn’t see that vision, I had to re-wire myself for success at any cost, I told myself “It’s not gonna be easy, you’ll have to work 10 times if not 100 times harder than an average world artist to make it, your own people will hate on you but once you make it, It will all be worth it” which the mindset I still have now

never m a t e

u n d eporweesrtoif your the wn story. o

King

“

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KENNY K~SHOT

“What does success look like for you beyond the charts and radio play? Is there a message or impact you hope to leave on your audience?”

Success to me apart from selling records, is about creating something meaning ful that connects with people on a deeper level. I want my music to inspire others to be unapologetically themselves, to chase their dreams, and to never let anyone tell they can’t . If I can make people feel understood or empowered, that’s success. And also

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“ Your music is full of storytelling—what legacy do you want to build, and how do you want your story to inspire others who are just starting out?”

I want to build a legacy of fearless Rwandan men and women just like our heroes taught us. A mindset of being unstoppable and going against all odds to achieve your dreams, or deepest goals in any field you might be in. I want my legacy to be one of authenticity and resilience. I hope to show that you don’t need to follow the crowd to succeed,you just need to stay true to your story and work hard for what you believe in. My journey isn’t perfect, but it’s real, and if it can help someone else believe in themselves, then that’s what matters most.

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KENNY K-SHOT 24

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“Looking ahead, what are some of your dreams or goals that keep you motivated, and how do you see your music evolving in the years to come?”

My ultimate dream is for my music reach people globally, to break barriers and represent my culture on a big stage. I see my music evolving as I grow, experimenting with new sounds, telling new stories, and collaborating with artists worldwide. I want to keep challenging myself and pushing the boundaries of what I can create.

“What advice would you give to young creatives who are trying to find their voice and make their mark, especially those coming from similar backgrounds?”

My advice is to never underestimate the power of your own story. You have something unique to offer. Trust in your voice, stay patient, and don’t be afraid to take risks. The road isn’t easy, but if you keep pushing and stay true to who you are, you’ll find your way.

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Safe place.

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SAFE PLACE MAGAZINE KIVUMBI (LEFT) KENNY K- SHOT(RIGHT) REMEMBER, TAKE SOMETIME TO REFLECT, IT’S HOW YOU GROW.

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3 SAFE

Laetitia Seguin

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Sometimes Falling Can be A new

Beginning Too.

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ITS ALL LOVE 34

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GARNON

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Nothing is scarier than avoiding your full potential ***

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Suduko

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Cp

rossword uzzle

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P

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T THINGS U O E IT R W RTUNITY TO YEAR OR EVEN O P P O IS H T USE O IN THIS D A N N A W ET LIST!!!

K C U YOU MIGHT B U O Y DO LATER ON.

BUCKET

LIST?

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Safe Place Magazine

DON’T FORGET TO BE GRATEFUL FOR WHAT YOU DO HAVE

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TAKE YOUR TIME SAFE PLACE MAGAZINE

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DONE IS BETTER THAN PERFECT, CAUSE PERFECT IS NEVER DONE Perfection can be a sneaky saboteur—always whispering that your work isn’t good enough until you never finish anything at all. The truth is, done is infinitely better than perfect, because chasing perfection can feel like running on a treadmill that never stops. When you finally decide to put a bow on your project and share it with the world, you open the door to growth, creativity, and the sweet satisfaction of progress. Embracing a little imperfection means embracing life’s beautifully unpredictable twists, where every “mistake” is just another opportunity to learn and shine.

So, kick that paralyzing quest for perfection to the curb and celebrate the art of finishing what you start. When you choose to say “I’m done, and I’m proud,” you’re also saying goodbye to endless revisions and hello to new adventures. Life isn’t about crafting the perfect Instagram moment or the flawless masterpiece—it’s about the messy, colorful journey that makes you uniquely you. Embrace your quirks, laugh at your blunders, and remember: every completed step, no matter how imperfect, brings you closer to your dreams.

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4 MAGAZINE

DJ AFRELLIE

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What inspired you to start DJing, and can you share a defining moment when you realized that this was the path you wanted to pursue?

I realized I wanted to start Djing when I found myself listening to music day in and day out. I do love music. If money wasn’t a thing and we didn’t have to work, i’d most likely be roaming around the world either dancing my music, mixing it or making it. I only get one life so I definitely wasn’t going to miss out on the chance of making the most out of it. And what’s better than following one’s true passion and building a career out of it.

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My stage name is Afrellie, my real name is Eliora and I also go by Ellie. I am a creative. Not just a dancer, not just a Dj not just an artist. All of them are cool but i’d be boxing myself.

I am the I am that I am. A resource from the Source.

A creator with gifts from none but the Creator. And I continue to embrace every step of my journey to true success.

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D J

How has the unique vibe of Portland, Maine influenced your music and creative process?

I’ve lived in four different cities around Maine throughout the seven years i’ve had here. Portland Maine is interesting. At first sight it can come off as calm and quiet but if you look closely, you can find the hidden gems in it. Just like Portland Maine, I don’t want my art to be perfect, I want my art to be itself with pretty nuances.

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A F R E L L I E

With the fast-paced changes in the music industry, how do you balance staying true to your creative vision while adapting to new trends?

If I have to play three songs, two of those songs will be true to my creative vision and who I am and one will be a trendy song. Life is all about ✨Balance✨.

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Is there a moment in your journey where you had to push through adversity that now shapes how you approach your art?

The biggest thing I had to learn about creating . Is to be true to myself. If we all as creatives copy from one another we will start to sound the same and look the same. Originality would be lost in the sea of recreation. In order to keep a natural allure to myself, I have to be different. And the best to be different is to be one self. The weird, goofy, cringe, overly happy is the authentic. I needed to learn to stop being a perfectionist and being my own worst critic. I learned to worry about the quantity and let God worry about the quality. Truly, I needed to Let go and let God.

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Be Content ELIORA

BENERUGABA * LET’S PLAY A GAME OF “MUSICAL TIME MACHINE.” IF YOU COULD TRANSPORT YOURSELF TO ANY ERA OF AFROBEAT OR ANY GERNE FOR THAT MATTER, WHERE WOULD YOU GO, AND WHO WOULD YOU LOVE TO JAM WITH? IF I COULD TRAVEL TO A CERTAIN MUSICAL ERA. I WOULD DEFINITELY GO TO THE 90’S WHEN IT COMES TO RNB. AND THE 2000´S WHEN IT COMES TO AFROBEATS. AND I WOULD LOVE TO JAM WITH QUEEN B AND ZAHO (IF YOU KNOW YOU KNOW).

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Let’s say you’re writing a letter to your future self. What piece of advice would you tuck away for the Ellie of tomorrow?

The first advice that comes to mind is to not limit myself whatsoever.

Someone wise once said the sky is the limit and no one should tell you otherwise not even yourself Eliora.

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Ellie

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“Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery, none but ourselves can free our minds” Bob marley

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SAMANTHA GRIMWOOD

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DID YOU KNOW

* Did you know your body loses up to 8 percent of water on a flight? * Did you know the longest breath held underwater is 24:03 minutes? * Did you know you can tell if an egg is old based on whether it floats in water? * Did you know unless food is mixed with saliva you can’t taste it? * Did you know you can’t tickle yourself? * Did you know 85% of plant life is found in the ocean? * Did you know that water might not be wet? * Did you know You can actually die laughing? * Did you know Snails have teeth?

Well, now you know!

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Not until we are lost do we begin to find ourselves

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EMBRACE YOUR STRENGTH, CELEBRATE YOUR UNIQUENESS

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DONT FORGERT TO HAVE FUN DOING WHATEVER YOU DO.

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DESIGNER OF dreams

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THE ART OF JUST SHOWIN UP There is a quiet power in simply showing up. When you decide to be present—even if everything isn’t perfect—you open the door to growth and new opportunities. It’s not about having all the answers or knowing exactly what will happen; it’s about taking that step forward and trusting the process. Every time you show up, you build a little more confidence and momentum, proving that your presence is powerful. So, let go of the fear of not being ready, and remember that it’s always better to be there and try than to miss out on what could be your next great adventure.

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SOLUT

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TIONS

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Photographed: Kevin Nishimwe Edited: Kevin Nishimwe Designed: Kevin Nishimwe Creative Assistant: Bupalo Sungubele

Instagram: saf3placemag

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SAFE PLACE MAGAZINE SAFE PLACE WHERE INSIPIRATION MEETS IMAGINATION: UNLEASH YOUR POTENTIAL