Swangz graduates over 100 creatives

Swangz Creative Academy successfully held its fourth graduation ceremony today (Thursday) at the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) Auditorium in Kololo, with over 100 young creatives completing its latest training cohort.

The graduates emerged from diverse programs including Video Production, Audio Production, Events Management and Digital Marketing.

An initiative of Swangz Avenue, one of Uganda’s leading creative powerhouses, the academy was established to bridge the gap between passion and professional skills in the creative industry.

 
The graduates were inspired by industry leaders who shared career guidance and insights. Uncle Mo (Moses Kiboneka) urged students to start creating immediately rather than waiting for opportunities.

“Do not wait for someone to give you a chance. Start creating now, consistently produce work and recognition will follow. Doors open for those who show up every day, ready to deliver,” he said.

Aaronaire (Aaron Mutumba), a video director, encouraged graduates to view learning as a lifelong process, emphasizing the importance of taking on challenges, starting projects and consistently producing quality work after graduation.

Addressing the new creatives, Benon Mugumbya, Head of Production at Swangz Avenue, reminded them to be problem solvers, reliable, teachable, and purposeful, while treating their creative skills as a business.

“Your creative skills are not just hobbies. They are a business. Be problem solvers, reliable and remain teachable. Success comes to those who treat their craft seriously and consistently deliver value,” he said.

The graduates also benefited from sessions by William Tumwine, Assistant Commissioner Registration Services at URSB, who guided them on registering creative businesses, protecting intellectual property, and copyright compliance.

Only 10% of the graduates were however female. The best four students were retained by Swangz Avenue.

 
Top three students speak out

Josiah Tumwebaze,

We didn’t just learn theory but worked on real projects and gained confidence to work professionally in video production. I plan to use these skills to build a career in filmmaking and content creation, telling impactful African stories.

Keith Mujuni,

I learned how to work under pressure and create content that meets industry standards. I want to use the skills I have gained to work in audio production and eventually run my own sound and production company.

Sseguya Joshua Mukisa,

What stood out most was the mentorship and practical learning. The trainers treated us like professionals, and the hands-on sessions helped me sharpen my skills and understand how the creative industry truly works.

I plan to grow myself as a digital content creator and expand into media production and brand storytelling.