How Swangz Avenue is Shaping Uganda’s Creative Industry

Last week On Wednesday, 11th December 2024, the Swangz Creative Academy celebrated a monumental achievement: the graduation of over 100 students, further cementing its position as a leader in creative arts education in Uganda.

The event, which took place at MOTIV on Old Port Bell Road, Kampala, highlighted Swangz Avenue’s dedication to equipping young creatives with practical, market-ready skills to thrive in the industry.

Founded in 2022, the Swangz Creative Academy has become a beacon of opportunity for aspiring creatives, offering hands-on training and mentorship. The recent ceremony brought together proud parents, media, and notable stakeholders, including celebrated social entrepreneur and Reach A Hand Uganda founder, Humphrey Nabimanya, who applauded the academy’s transformative work.

Graduates received certificates accredited by the Directorate of Industrial Training under the Ministry of Education, marking a significant step toward their professional growth and contribution to Uganda’s creative economy.

A Showcase of Excellence

The event featured an impressive showcase of projects completed by the students, reflecting the academy’s “80% practicals” teaching philosophy. These projects included music videos, short commercials, and major productions such as the Iryn Namubiru Timeless Experience Concert, filmed by Swangz Creative Academy alumni.

Guests were captivated by the creativity, technical skill, and professionalism demonstrated, which underscored the academy’s commitment to producing industry-ready talent.

One parent, visibly moved by the work on display, shared: “I’m amazed at the level of skill my child has gained. This academy has truly transformed their future.”

Leadership Insights and Encouragement

During the ceremony, Julius Kyazze, CEO of Swangz Avenue, highlighted the academy’s mission:

“At Swangz Creative Academy, our goal is to equip young people with practical skills that align with market demands, turning them into job creators rather than job seekers. Over the past 6-8 weeks, we’ve trained over 50 students in areas like photography, voice recording, and film. It’s especially exciting to see many girls taking up these opportunities. This is just the beginning—we aim to broaden our training programs beyond the creative sector to empower even more individuals in the future.”

Benon Mugumbya, Swangz Avenue’s Head of Production, inspired the graduates with words of wisdom:

“Never stop seeking new skills. In the creative industry, rejection is inevitable, but winners are those who refuse to give up. Comfort can be a trap, so always remain hungry for growth and open to new opportunities.”

Courses Designed for Impact

The Swangz Creative Academy offers a comprehensive range of courses, including audio production, cinematography, digital video editing, live broadcasting, scriptwriting, and film production. Its hands-on methodology ensures that graduates are ready to meet the demands of the creative industry.

Many alumni have already secured jobs at top agencies or been retained within Swangz Avenue, while others have been recommended for roles in leading creative firms.

A Growing Influence on Uganda’s Creative Scene

The academy’s impact extends beyond individual success stories. By fostering a culture of professionalism and creativity, Swangz Avenue is shaping a vibrant ecosystem that positions Uganda as a hub for talent and innovation.

Reflecting on the academy’s journey, Julius Kyazze remarked: “This isn’t just about training individuals it’s about shaping an industry. With every graduate, we’re building a stronger foundation for Uganda’s creative future.”

As the graduates step into their careers, equipped with the skills and confidence to lead, it’s clear that Swangz Avenue’s influence on Uganda’s creative industry is only just beginning. With initiatives like the Swangz Creative Academy, the country is poised for even greater creative achievements on both local and global stages.