Over 30,000 youth to benefit from empowerment initiative

More than 30,000 young people are set to benefit from the 2025 Dominate Youth Movement, an annual nationwide program designed to empower students and youth aged 12 to 25 with clarity, character, and purpose.

The event, scheduled for September 27, 2025, at Hamz Stadium in Nakivubo, was officially unveiled during a press briefing held on September 24 at Serena Hotel in Kampala.

Organisers said this year’s edition will focus on three key objectives: Digital Dreams, where technology can be turned into opportunity, Identity and Self-Worth by helping young people win the war within, and Leadership Without Title by teaching influence regardless of status.

Building business skills from everyday talents

Hope Kemigisha, the vision bearer of the Dominate Youth Movement, explained that the initiative is about showing youth how to use what they already have to build sustainable livelihoods.

She gave examples of students using social media to create tutoring businesses or leveraging communication skills to build careers in marketing, public relations, and content creation.

“We want to empower, equip, and ignite a new generation of bold, responsible, transformative and visionary youth leaders,” Kemigisha said.

She emphasised that entrepreneurship does not always require large sums of capital but rather creativity and the courage to monetise everyday talents.

Kemigisha also noted that the Dominate Hub, a core part of the initiative, will focus on identifying and nurturing youth talent in practical ways, while ensuring participants leave with actionable strategies to grow both personally and professionally.

Turning challenges into opportunities

Wezi Nkwazi, a coordinator from the United Kingdom and past participant, highlighted how technological disruptions like artificial intelligence (AI) can be turned into opportunities.

He pointed out that while AI poses risks such as misinformation, it also creates space for new industries like digital security and authenticity verification.

“Every challenge brings in new opportunities,” he said, drawing parallels with tailoring, where the introduction of machines eventually increased the value of handmade, custom-tailored clothing.

Protecting intellectual property

From a local perspective, Ugandan coordinator Manuela Mulondo stressed the importance of intellectual property and formal business registration.

She observed that many young entrepreneurs have innovative ideas but fail to protect them legally, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation.

“When I went to register my trademark, many youths didn’t understand that you need to be registered. If you have an idea, there has to be a certain form of protection,” Mulondo said.

She encouraged youth to register with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), obtain tax identification numbers (TINs), and treat their ventures with the seriousness they deserve.

Call to parents

Mulondo further urged parents to support their children’s participation in such initiatives, noting that mentorship and exposure to practical opportunities can transform lives.

The Dominate Youth Movement, she added, is not only about inspiration but also about equipping participants with tools to create real change in their communities.

Organisers concluded by stressing that true transformation begins with a change in mindset. The event promises not only learning sessions from experts but also a space for networking, mentorship, and entertainment.

“If we are going to change our situation, we must change our mindset first,” Kemigisha emphasised.

Security and logistics

With thousands expected to attend, organisers assured the public that safety has been prioritised.

The Uganda Police and counterterrorism units will be on the ground, and traffic flow around Nakivubo has been planned to allow smooth access. Designated walkways and barricades will also be in place.

Tickets are priced at sh30,000 and cover food, drinks, and access to games and entertainment. Popular gospel artist Levixone, among others, will perform at the event.

The 2025 Dominate Youth Movement is expected to inspire thousands of young people to rethink their approach to opportunity, empowering them to turn everyday abilities into thriving enterprises while preparing them for the challenges of a rapidly evolving world.