‎“From the Ghettos of Rwanda to Kalgoorlie and Beyond: The Rise of Professor Ras Banamungu”

Global Recognition for a Spiritual Innovator in Counselling Psychology and the Therapeutic Arts ‎In a milestone moment that reflects both academic excellence and spiritual purpose, Professor Idi Banamungu, known globally as Professor Ras Banamungu, has been officially appointed as Honorary Professor of Counselling Psychology and the Therapeutic Arts, with a specialisation in Laughter Percussion and Management Learning, by the prestigious Kennedy University of Baptist, Florida, USA. ‎This appointment is more than a personal accolade. It is a global endorsement of his mission to revolutionize

Global Recognition for a Spiritual Innovator in Counselling Psychology and the Therapeutic Arts ‎In a milestone moment that reflects both academic excellence and spiritual purpose, Professor Idi Banamungu, known globally as Professor Ras Banamungu, has been officially appointed as Honorary Professor of Counselling Psychology and the Therapeutic Arts, with a specialisation in Laughter Percussion and Management Learning, by the prestigious Kennedy University of Baptist, Florida, USA. ‎This appointment is more than a personal accolade. It is a global endorsement of his mission to revolutionize mental health through rhythm, laughter, culture, and innovation—anchored in research, education, and spirituality. ‎The Professorship: A Title with Purpose ‎The Honorary Professorship awarded to Professor Ras acknowledges decades of contribution to mental health, community education, and holistic healing. It recognizes his pioneering therapeutic model, Laughter Percussion, which merges music, movement, and joyful expression to treat emotional distress, promote social inclusion, and restore mental balance. ‎As a Professor of Counselling Psychology and the Therapeutic Arts, with a specialisation in Laughter Percussion and Management Learning, Professor Ras is now among the few globally recognized figures to blend creative arts, clinical science, and cultural spirituality in an academic framework. ‎His work is not just taught—it is accredited and recognized internationally. ‎Delivering Global Accredited Courses: Education with Rhythm ‎Through his registered training business, the Laughter Percussion Academy, Professor Ras now delivers globally accredited courses in partnership with a growing network of local and international universities and nationally recognized training organizations. ‎These partnerships enable students from all backgrounds to access formal education and earn certificates, diplomas, and advanced qualifications in: ‎Counselling Psychology ‎Laughter Percussion Therapy ‎Music and Mental Health ‎Management Learning ‎Personal Development Coaching ‎Community Services & Spiritual Leadership ‎Participants not only gain academic recognition but are also invited to formal graduation ceremonies organized collaboratively by the Academy and its partner institutions. ‎“We are building a bridge,” Professor Ras says, “from nothing to professor. From local dreams to global degrees. From laughter to leadership.” ‎Scholar, Researcher, and Spiritual Rastaman ‎Professor Ras is more than a performer and educator—he is an active researcher, currently pursuing a Doctorate in Arts, specialising in Laughter Percussion, at the London School of Management and Technology. His research explores the neuropsychological effects of rhythmic therapy, the cultural roots of healing, and community-based mental health innovation. ‎As a spiritual Rastaman, Professor Ras’s work is infused with the philosophy of I-and-I Consciousness—the divine unity between the individual and Jah. He teaches that healing begins from within and that rhythm is a sacred force capable of transforming trauma into triumph. ‎“Rastafari is my compass. My drum is my voice. And my laughter is liberation,” he says. ‎From Rwanda to the World: A Story of Rising Rhythms ‎Born and raised in the ghettos of Rwanda, Ras Banamungu’s early life was shaped by struggle, survival, and the sound of the drum. That rhythm led him to Australia, where he now operates from Kalgoorlie, Western Australia—a base that’s become a launchpad for global transformation. ‎Through the Det-n-ators International, his media and education platform, Professor Ras continues to reach marginalized voices, offering opportunities for creative healing and academic excellence across borders. ‎Interview Highlights: The Voice of the Professor ‎HobeNews: How do your global courses impact communities? ‎Professor Ras: ‎They create pathways. You can come from a war zone or a ghetto and still graduate with an accredited diploma. It’s about removing barriers—financial, cultural, emotional—and giving people a rhythm to rise with. ‎HobeNews: What’s next for Laughter Percussion Academy? ‎Professor Ras: We’re expanding into more countries. We’re launching digital campuses. We’re making room for Indigenous perspectives and traditional healing methods in formal education. This is the beginning of a worldwide movement. ‎HobeNews: Why do you continue to use your pen name, Professor Ras? ‎Professor Ras: ‎Because that’s who I am to the people. The academic title is an honor, but “Ras” is my spirit—it connects me to the roots, the drum, the struggle, and the laughter. ‎Legacy in Motion: Healing with Rhythm ‎Professor Ras Banamungu continues to deliver workshops, accredited courses, and public lectures worldwide. With each session, book, song, and certificate, he reminds the world that education, healing, and spirituality are not separate—they are one rhythm. ‎“Let’s continue to inspire, support, and uplift each other. The journey has just begun, and I am proud to take you all with me.” ‎Quick Profile: Professor Ras Banamungu ‎Full Name: Professor Idi Banamungu ‎Pen Name: Professor Ras Banamungu ‎Honorary Title: Professor of Counselling Psychology and the Therapeutic Arts ‎Awarded By: Kennedy University of Baptist (Florida, USA) ‎Specialisation: Laughter Percussion & Management Learning ‎Academy: Founder of Laughter Percussion Academy ‎Current Research: Trauma, Rhythm & Neuropsychology ‎Spiritual Identity: Rastaman embracing I-and-I Consciousness ‎Educational Offerings: Global accredited diplomas & degrees in mental health and arts therapy ‎Published Books: Five completed, one upcoming ‎Origin: Ghetto of Rwanda ‎Base: Kalgoorlie, Western Australia ‎Catchphrase: “From Rwanda to Kalgoorlie Kalgoorlie to the World!”