Young achievers recognised

Peter Mukiibi could not hold back tears as he ascended the podium to receive his accolade as the overall winner at the annual Young Achievers Awards. “I did not expect this. It all started in garage and here we are,” the emotional 32-year-old told the audience between sobs at the Kampala Serena Hotel on Friday.

Mukiibi is director of Addmaya, a film, television and design firm that specialises in brand identity, promos, commercials, documentaries and graphic design across different media platforms. He has done work for Orange, Pace, Watoto Child Care Ministries, MTN and TV stations among other clients.

As guest of honour, Professor Mthuli Ncube, chief economist and vice president African Development Bank pointed out in his speech, the future lies in the hands of young people.

The Heroes Award went to Esther Kalenzi, a team leader and champion for the cause, 40 Days over 40 Smiles (40-40). In her acceptance speech, Kalenzi moved the crowd as she shared the story of how she began this cause on social networks and together with her team, they have been able to change lives of orphaned, and less-advantaged children in and out of Kampala.

“I am glad we got recognised by YAA, but I am not fazed to forget the goal. We still have a lot of work to do in making the youth more aware of their society, but most importantly changing our Uganda. Let us not tusaba gavumenti (ask government) when we can tusaba abavubuka twegatte (ask the youth to come together),” she pointed out.

Olive Kigongo won the Young Achiever Award star Hall of Fame for being founding chairman and for starting the young team that began the awards. The Lifetime Achievement Award was given in honour of the Late Dr James Mulwana. His family, widow- Sarah Mulwana, children and grandchildren were in the house to receive the award. One of the main guests, Her Majesty the Queen of Buganda Kingdom, Sylvia Nnaginda Luswata comforted the widow.

The queen spoke veryhighly of the fallen industrialist for being a father, friend, inspiring, and believing in young people. The family pledged to offer support to 40-40, and so did Elvis Sekyanzi, one of the board members of YAA.

Winners:
Media and Journalist Award: Flavia Tumusiime.
Business Entrepreneurship Award: George William Bakka, Joachim Ewechu and Ivan Mandela of Angels Initiatives.
Outstanding Performing Arts Award: Kenneth Kimuli alias Pablo.
Ericson Innovation Excellence Award: Dr Davis Musinguzi of The Medical Concierge.
Farming and Agro-processing Award: Eric and Rebecca of KadAfrica Ltd.
Leadership and Social Enterprise Award: Gerald Abila.
Sports Personality Award: Phiona Mutesi.