It’s a decade for collective UG
The Collective Ug performing at Green Hill Academy during their 10-year anniversary. (Photos by Ignatius Kamya)
NewVision Reporter
@NewVision
Last Saturday, the Collective UG marked its 10-year anniversary at Green Hill Academy Kibuli in Kampala with an event that was more than a celebration to commemorate a decade of faith, resilience, and purpose-driven impact.
The Collective UG, which began in 2015 as a reimagining of a smaller group, HOP Band, has evolved into a powerful community that inspires young people to discover purpose, develop creative skills, and transform their lives through faith and music.
Humble beginnings
Before the Collective UG became the dynamic movement, it was called the HOP Band, a small band that created music, engaged in school ministry and recorded an album. By 2014, members of the band began envisioning a broader, more inclusive initiative.
Speaking to Nelson Muhire, the founder of the Collective Ug, their shared experiences of struggling to find direction during their university years, inspired the formation of a new community.
“We shared similar struggles navigating confusion about purpose after school and finding clarity about our paths. We all desired to create a better future for our children,“ he said.
The name changed from HOP Band (House of Prayer) to the Collective UG, reflecting its broader mission: a collective of young people journeying together in faith, discovering purpose, and using their talents to impact their communities positively.
A Hub for young people
Today, the Collective UG is much more than a band. It is a hub where young people connect, grow, and explore their creativity while asking profound questions about life and purpose. While music remains a significant part of the community's identity, it is only one aspect of a larger ecosystem.
The Collective UG provides a space where individuals can learn creative skills, form friendships, and share their journeys. It is a place where life experiences are turned into songs of prayer, which resonate with audiences far and wide.
“It is a hub,” Muhire explains.
“Young people come here, learn creative skills, connect, and grow. Music is just one part of it, our collective gift from God. The songs we create are reflections of the journeys and prayers of our members.”
Defining moments
Reflecting on the past decade, several milestones stand out as defining moments for The Collective UG. In 2016, the release of their song Amen marked a turning point.
Initially created as a simple video, the song unexpectedly gained massive traction online, becoming a favorite among listeners. Its success introduced The Collective UG to a wider audience and solidified its place in Uganda’s music and faith communities.
Another highlight came during the COVID-19 lockdowns of 2020. With physical gatherings restricted, the ministry shifted online, fostering a new wave of connections through virtual sessions.
When members finally met in person later that year, it was remarkable to see how deep relationships had been formed purely through digital interactions.
Their 2017 Sold Out Conference, though financially challenging, was another significant event. It epitomized their commitment to creating bold and transformative experiences, even in the face of adversity.
Similarly, the release of their song Breathe in 2021 showcased their ability to craft timeless music, with the track becoming their most-streamed song to date.
Overcoming challenges and growing together
The journey has not been without challenges. In its early years, the Collective UG faced hurdles in leadership, financial stability, and maintaining clarity of vision. Learning to lead a diverse group of people with varying backgrounds and expectations was a steep learning curve.
Financial constraints tested their faith and commitment. Yet, through perseverance and trust in God, the Collective UG overcame these obstacles.
“Learning to lead, create healthy relationships, and trust God has been a constant process,” Muhire shared. “It’s only through commitment to growth and a focus on health and trust that we have managed to stay united.”
This perseverance has borne fruit. Reaching the 10-year mark symbolizes not just survival but growth, a shared experience that has strengthened their bonds and deepened their collective purpose.
Impact through music and community
The Collective UG's songs are more than music, they are lifelines for those who hear them. Stories from fans illustrate the transformative power of their work.
One man shared how a song pulled him out of depression after his wife left him, reminding him of God's unyielding love. Others have shared how the music has helped them navigate personal struggles, offering hope and a renewed sense of purpose.
The ministry has become a source of inspiration for many, with songs like Sold Out and Breathe serving as anthems for young people across Uganda and beyond. Schools eagerly request the Collective UG's music during visits, and fans continue to share personal testimonies of how the music has touched their lives.
As the Collective UG celebrates its 10-year milestone, it is not just reflecting on the past but also looking to the future. The anniversary event and conference served as a platform to reimagine the group's vision and explore new opportunities for growth and impact.
The Collective UG's journey over the past decade is a testament to the power of purpose, faith, and community. From humble beginnings to becoming a transformative hub for young people, the group has stayed true to its mission of helping individuals find purpose and express it creatively.