Young Ugawood: 9 Young Actors on The Future of Uganda’s Film Industry

Move over Nollywood, there’s a new contender in town! Uganda’s film industry is experiencing a surge of creativity and production, with a wave of exciting new series, films gaining international acclaim, and stage shows that rival the best. This isn’t just a flash in the pan, either.

Meet the young dynamic talents poised to shape the future of Uganda’s burgeoning film industry; a talented new generation of actors is taking the baton from established veterans, propelling Ugandan cinema to even greater heights.

Join us as we delve into their lives and careers, each with their own unique abilities and aspirations.

Blessed Natulinda

The 20-year-old portrays ‘Nassuuna’ on Pearl Magic Prime’s ‘Sanyu’, which interestingly is her first on-screen role. Nassuuna is depicted as a spoilt child with no ambition or dreams. “I enjoy playing this role because I believe that there are so many Nassunas out there, and them seeing themselves on screen is impactful,” she tells Satisfashion UG.

Every actor’s first major audition is a landmark memory, and the same can be said for Blessed. “I didn’t own a phone then, so I joined a friend who owned one to go for the audition,” she recounts. “Unfortunately for me, luck wasn’t on my side that day. However, days later, I was invited back to audition for ‘Nassuuna’ and I got it.”

Natulinda, who juggles acting with school (she’s set to join UCU this year to pursue a degree in Law), describes it as her dream career. “Ever since I was little, every time I watched our local TV productions, I would admire the actors. It was clear to me that my passion was in film,” she says.

She’s influenced by many actors, but Eleanor Nabwiso stands out. “I love the way she transforms into every role she plays. It’s beautiful to watch,” she says.

Mark Agume

25-year-old Mark Agume has appeared in a number of short and feature productions, including “The Last Shoemaker,” “Ssekukulu,” and Pearl Magic Prime’s “Sanyu.” His latest project is a self-produced and directed short film called ‘Interprete It,’ which chronicles the story of a young man whose plans of leaving the country come to an end when he and his hearing-impaired girlfriend are kidnapped on their last date together.

Agume, who is currently the only Ugandan actor representing Uganda in the finals of ‘The African Monologue’ Challenge, is not afraid to say that acting is not a walk in the park. “I have walked into countless auditions, and I have been rejected almost half the time,” he says. However, it is the thrill of the job of playing different roles on screen that keeps him excited.

His dream job, he says, is to play a revolutionary. “I watch a lot of political history, and it would be a blessing to play one of those brave gentlemen that liberated a nation,” he says. It is not surprising that he draws influence from Denzel Washington and Ugandan star Michael Wawuyo.

Faith Kirabo

23-year-old Kirabo is definitely not in film by chance. “I’ve always wanted to be an actor, but as I grew older, choices changed and priorities switched. But, somehow, I ended back where I was meant to be,” she says. She plays ‘Suubi’ on Pearl Magic Prime’s ‘Beloved,’ a role she enjoys so much because it challenges her.

Her favorite part about acting is the ability to morph into different characters. “I can literally become anything,” she laughs. It’s not surprising that she has no dream role and is ready to take on any challenge.

Kirabo’s acting is heavily inspired by filmmakers Nathan Magoola and Loukman Ali, and she admires their attention to detail. “I describe a good film as one that has taken time to produce with every detail given attention, and there’s no doubt that all projects produced by those two filmmakers tick those boxes,” she says.

Bugaba Cyrus Clinton Clive Cranmer Kisuule Kibirige

29-year-old Bugaba Cyrus Clinton Clive Cranmer Kisuule Kibirige describes himself as an expressive, insightful, and charismatic actor, qualities that were evident in his role as ‘Mutumba’ on Prestige, Pearl Magic Prime’s award-winning show. He credits a stint at Toronto Film School for honing his acting skills, but he won’t deny that the experience he has garnered over the years has also played a role.

Bugaba boasts an enviable resume, which includes “Collapse in Space,” a stage play by Citizen.Kane.Kollective in Germany, “30 Years of Bananas,” a stage play by Phillip Luswata and Alex Mukulu, “My Fair Lady,” a stage play by Timeless Arts Ug, and “Ruined,” a stage play by Lynn Nottage and Dr. Mulekwa Charles. He has also starred in TV adverts for brands such as Airtel, MTN, KFC, DSTV, Gotv, and more.

His talent was evident at an early age, and his parents were very supportive. “I remember when I was figuring out which course to do at University, my Dad cracked the code almost immediately. “Go and do MDD (Music, Dance & Drama),” he recalls.

But it is the story behind his many names that takes it all the way. “Apparently, my six Ssengas (paternal aunts) knew I would be a star,” he recounts. “Each of them gave me a name, and they all want to see and know that I am using the names they gave me everywhere I go. Hence the name Bugaba Cyrus Clinton Clive Cranmer Kisuule Kibirige.”

Kenny Rukundo

Kenny Rukundo describes himself as “a multi-hyphenate with a methodical, custom-focused approach to work”. He is an actor, voice-over artist, commercial model, influencer, content creator, MC, and event planner. And, he manages to excel at all of them. His clients include YOTV, Pilsner, Airtel, Stanbic Bank, and more. However, acting is his favorite job. “With acting, I am able to portray everything from a DJ, doctor, lawyer to a poor kid roaming the streets,” he says.

He enjoys playing Noah Tabaro on Pearl Magic Prime’s “Damalie”. “Noah is the second born of a family of five, a young ghetto youth, breadwinner of his family who is trying to make a living for himself as well as provide for his family but is caught up in the shackles of forbidden love,” he explains. “I resonate quite well with the role. I feel like I understand what Noah is going through, but also I disagree with many of his life choices.”

Rukundo’s dream role, interestingly, is to play a superhero. “I am passionate about saving the world, and I also possess the physique for the role,” he laughs. He goes on to say that he’d love to work on an international project rooted in our culture. “The idea of Wakanda is so apt: an African-inspired story with uniquely African characters all played by black actors. That’s an international project I’d be so proud to work on,” he says.

Tyra Abok

12-year-old Tyra Abok plays ‘Queen’ on Pearl Magic Prime’s Juniors Drama Club, a TV drama chronicling the lives of primary school students and delving into the drama unfolding among their parents and the sharp wit of the non-teaching staff.

She enjoys playing the role but cannot deny that acting is a challenge. “I cannot forget the first time I had to cry in front of the camera. Tears couldn’t come out. I tried, but all I could do was yawn,” she recalls. “But it has allowed me to step out of my comfort zone, which has made me grow beyond my years.”

Abok’s love for film began upon watching the animated series ‘Barbie Dreamhouse Adventures’. “I was obsessed with the characters and constantly asked my mum if I could be like them,” she recalls. “Her answer was that I had to act first and probably my role would be turned into an animation.” She then set out to pursue her newfound passion, which her mother supported wholeheartedly by introducing her to filmmaker Nisha Kalema, who upon meeting her was taken aback by her potential. “She believed in me right away and promised to make me a star and today here we are,” she recalls.

She admires Mariam Ndagire, whom she describes as a “Legend”. She too wants to leave an indelible mark on the industry. “I am excited to be a part of this industry at such a remarkable time when people are appreciating the craft. See IKon Awards, Uganda Film Festival are doing great to promote our films. I’m excited about the future,” she says.

Pelly Peninah Nampanga

25-year-old Pelly Penina Nampanga recalls her first acting experience with nostalgia. “I was 13 years old, and in high school. I landed this role in a stage play which I did so well,” she recounts. “After that, I was the envy of all my peers. Everyone convinced me that I had to pursue acting when a real opportunity arose.”

Looking back, she’s happy that she listened. She plays Nambi on Pearl Magic Prime’s Sanyu, a role she describes as both challenging and exciting to play. She has also had a stint in theatre.

Nampanga draws inspiration from Nana Kagga, whom she describes as “an actor who can do it all; acting, directing, producing. I want to be like her.” She also admires Cleopatra for her unique work ethic.

Her dream is to take her talent to Hollywood. “And win an Oscar or two,” she laughs.

Nodryn Evanci Kabuye

Nodryn Evanci Kabuye has always wanted to be an actor. “At 6 years old, I was already obsessed with Nigerian movies and was convinced then that I would be the Genevieve Nnaji of Uganda. Upon watching a scene, I would challenge my family or friends to re-enact it,” she tells Satisfashion UG.

The young filmmaker, a student of the Cinearts Academy in Colorado, portrays ‘Kweera’in John Segawa’s ‘The Honourablez’, a political satire-drama series.

Because she’s passionate about the arts, Kabuye has dabbled in various forms; she’s also a writer and costume designer, and these skills always come in handy as she’s able to spot a shoddy costume in a heartbeat. “The arts give me such a rush; nothing else does to me,” she says.

Her inspiration is Michael Wawuyo Jr, whom she describes as a “real gem”. She is also working on a really big international project, but her lips are still tight about the details. “I’m really excited about the future of film, especially African Cinema, and Uganda specifically. And I cannot wait to see what is yet to come,” she says.

Blair Koono Matthias

Blair Koono Matthias, a graduate of the Mariam Ndagire Film and Performing Arts Center, has carved an impressive acting resume. His accolades include winning the Best Supporting Actor award at the 2024 Ikon Awards for his role as Nuwagaba in ‘Enkuba’. Adding to his list of achievements, he lent his voice to “Ndahura” in Kizazi Moto, a Disney-produced animation featuring prominent talents like Florence Kasumba, Patrick Salvado, and Daniel Omara.

Despite his remarkable profile, Koono remains remarkably humble and focused on growth. “My mantra has always been to be the best version of myself rather than compete,” he shares. “My dream is to break borders, not just Ugandan but African, and take on more challenging roles to elevate Uganda’s presence on the global stage.”

However, his journey hasn’t been without its challenges. He reflects on the difficulty of self-funding his training in film school, where strict rules prevented students from taking on roles while still studying. “It was tough juggling tuition fees and living expenses,” he recalls, admitting moments of doubt about his chosen career path.

Credits:
Muses: @_nampanga_ | @blair_koono | @agumemark | @i_am_k_e_n | @bugaba7 | @fayekirabo | @queentyraabok | @nodrynevanci | @natulinda.blessed
Creative Director: @atwiin3 @esquisse_256
Photography: @mattsamuelzpictures
Photographer’s assistant: @dush_cindicate
Videography and sound: @ochiengphotography
Makeup: @serenebeautyug
Styling: @joycessonkotextiles
Accessories: @shwanda_kollection
Studio: @photohub.film
Assistants: @sheilla_clara @martinmatt_official
cover edit: @onunga