As a refugee from Uganda to Canada in 1972, Amina Mohamed built a successful career in the film and television industry. Drawing from her experiences, she founded Cameras For Girls to address gender inequality and poverty in Africa. Her organisation trains young women in photography, teaching them storytelling and employable skills that boost their confidence. Despite cultural challenges, Mohamed remains dedicated to making a positive impact, guided by her belief that “serving others makes the world a better place.”

In Uganda, where women’s economic participation faces significant barriers, Justine Kyanjo Kivumbi is making a substantial impact. Through her initiative, Growing an Online Business in Uganda, she mentors women in starting and marketing their businesses online. To date, she has mentored over 100 women, enabling them to achieve financial independence. “Mentoring these women has been a rewarding journey,” says Kivumbi. “It’s incredible to witness the transformative power of guidance and continuous learning.” Kivumbi is changing lives and reshaping the economic landscape for women in Uganda and beyond. Her guiding principle is: “Empower women, change the world.”

Facing societal judgement as a pregnant teenager, Winnie Atyang found solace and strength in rugby. Her successful career, including participation in the 2009 Rugby World Cup Sevens, motivated her to complete her university education. “Rugby is my redeemer,” she says. Now, Atyang trains women in rugby and teaches practical skills such as soap making and crafts to support their livelihoods. Her efforts have earned her awards for promoting women’s rugby in Uganda. Her guiding principle is: “Embrace every challenge as an opportunity. Live your life to the fullest.”

Inspired by her environmentalist mother and the plastic littering in Kampala, Sandra Asiimwe founded Ecoville Uganda in 2021. Her company offers biodegradable bamboo and papyrus products sourced globally and from local Ugandan women. With 50 products available, Asiimwe aims to eventually source everything locally and also leads tree planting efforts. Her guiding principle is: “No matter the challenges, keep going. Never wait for perfect conditions to start; start with whatever you have.”

Motivated by the need to support her autistic child named Mapalo, Kansiime Honest conceived the idea of a “pant pad.” She founded a manufacturing factory called Mapalo Period Pants, which employs dozens of women. This Ugandan company produces period pants that provide convenience during menstruation. The biodegradable material helps women maintain hygiene during their periods, allowing them to go about their daily routines.

University student Margret Birungi started Mcreatives, a business that ingeniously recycles items like car tyres and plastic bottles into products such as crochet bags and furniture. Motivated by the pollution problem in Kampala, she collects non-biodegradable waste to create useful materials. Birungi has trained over 30 women in this work, promoting environmental conservation and community improvement. Her guiding principle, “a skilful generation for a prosperous future,” reflects her dedication to sustainability.