How I remember Nakiwolo, Atim - Esther Oluka

Daily Monitor's Esther Oluka and last year's Miss Tourism contestant

I knew Nakiwolo and Atim quite well. I contested with them at last year’s Miss Tourism pageant.
We began to bond during one of the trips organised by the Uganda Tourism Board to different tourism destinations across the country. All 21 finalists were invited for the trips.
Nakiwolo and Atim ensured to attend, always. We talked about different things including life experiences and future aspirations. One thing I remember about Atim was her continuous smile. And when she got chatty, she would really tend to get loud and share a few jokes as well.
Nakiwolo on the other hand was a little bit emotional. She would easily break down when she was either hurt or worried about something. But other than that, she was fun loving. Just last weekend, we were together in Kabale District for the crowning of Miss Tourism Kigezi. For the after party, she wore a black dress and towering black heels.
I remember her telling the other girls that she could not wait to go and have fun that night.
Once again, we had all planned to go and watch the crowning of Miss Tourism Ankole last Saturday. I pulled out at the last minute because of work engagements only to receive a message a few hours later that the two had passed on. I was in shock and it took a while for the news to sink in.
Nevertheless, I am glad we crossed paths. Until we meet again.