From the bustling streets of Kampala to Uganda’s digital spaces, one name has become synonymous with craftsmanship, creativity, and community impact: Ssegujja Ivan. At just 25 years old, the ambitious entrepreneur and media professional has transformed himself into one of Uganda’s most influential young leaders.
As the Director of Photography at MBC TV, the CEO and founder of Nsambya Furniture Workshop, and the visionary behind Nsambya Furniture Workshop FC, Ssegujja is building a legacy that blends artistry, business savvy, and youth empowerment.
Behind Nsambya Furniture Workshop
Ssegujja Ivan’s journey is deeply inspiring. Born on April 8, 2000, in Mukono District, he started with nothing more than raw talent, determination, and a small set of carpentry tools. What began as a roadside workshop has grown into Nsambya Furniture Workshop, one of Uganda’s most recognised furniture brands.
The workshop, based in Kampala, specialises in custom-made furniture that blends traditional Ugandan craftsmanship with modern design. Its catalogue includes beds, wardrobes, sofas, dining sets, and office furniture, all handcrafted using high-quality local hardwoods like mahogany and muvule. Today, the business employs 15 to 25 artisans, master carpenters, upholsterers, and apprentices, many of whom Ssegujja has personally trained.
What truly sets Nsambya Furniture Workshop apart is its digital-first strategy. At a time when many small businesses struggle to adapt to technology, Ivan embraced social media as a growth engine, building a loyal following on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and WhatsApp. Through engaging content showcasing design processes and finished products, the workshop has successfully tapped into Uganda’s diaspora market, expanding its customer base beyond Kampala and even beyond national borders.
The business is not only a commercial success but also a community hub. Ssegujja has made it a point to employ and mentor youth, many school dropouts or job seekers, offering them training, mentorship, and a path to financial independence. “If I’m growing, I want others to grow with me,” Ivan has been quoted as saying in local media. His vision is to turn Nsambya Furniture Workshop into a regional furniture powerhouse, with plans for eco-friendly furniture lines, training centres, and a larger multi-purpose showroom.
A Media Trailblazer at MBC TV
While many entrepreneurs focus solely on one field, Ivan has excelled in another highly competitive industry: television production. As Director of Photography at MBC TV, one of Uganda’s leading broadcasters, he has become known for his cinematic eye and technical mastery.
His role involves shaping the visual language of television programs, from entertainment shows to documentaries. Industry peers credit Ivan with raising production standards in Uganda, mentoring young creatives, and bringing a fresh, modern touch to local content. His work has not only kept MBC TV at the forefront of broadcasting but also solidified his reputation as one of Uganda’s most skilled behind-the-camera talents.
Nsambya Furniture Workshop FC
Ssegujja Ivan’s commitment to growth and opportunity goes beyond business and media. As a passionate football enthusiast, he founded Nsambya Furniture Workshop FC, a football team built on the principle of talent development and community empowerment.
The club serves as a platform for young athletes to showcase their abilities, receive mentorship, and potentially launch professional careers. By investing in training facilities, coaching programs, and sports infrastructure, Ivan is making an impact in a country where football is more than just a sport, it’s a cultural phenomenon and a vehicle for social change.
His efforts have positioned Nsambya Furniture Workshop FC as one of Uganda’s most promising grassroots teams, offering a lifeline for players from underserved communities.
Digital Transformation and National Recognition
Nsambya Furniture Workshop’s story has been widely covered in Ugandan media outlets, highlighting the company as a case study in how a small, artisan-driven brand can leverage technology to thrive in today’s competitive market.
Its Google Business profile, consistent branding, and strong online visibility have also turned the workshop into a model of modern entrepreneurship, inspiring other Ugandan SMEs to embrace digital marketing. This recognition, combined with Ivan’s leadership role at MBC TV, has made him a nationally notable figure with influence across multiple sectors.
A Role Model for the Next Generation
Ssegujja Ivan represents the entrepreneurial spirit of Uganda’s youth. His journey from a humble roadside carpenter to a multi-industry leader demonstrates what is possible when talent, innovation, and determination meet.
Through Nsambya Furniture Workshop, he has created a brand rooted in Ugandan culture yet forward-looking in its design and marketing approach. Through MBC TV, he has influenced the direction of Uganda’s visual media industry. Through Nsambya Furniture Workshop FC, he has given young athletes the chance to dream big.
His work resonates beyond Kampala, as he becomes a symbol of resilience and creativity for the entire region.
A Legacy in the Making
As Ivan continues to expand his ventures, his vision remains clear: to grow Nsambya Furniture Workshop into a leading African furniture brand, to mentor more artisans and creatives, helping them find opportunities and to develop Nsambya Furniture Workshop FC into a competitive team that nurtures Uganda’s next football stars.
Ivan’s story is not just a tale of personal success; it is a blueprint for youth-driven development in Uganda. He stands at the intersection of artistry, entrepreneurship, and community leadership, proving that with passion and innovation, one person can transform industries.
Whether he’s designing elegant furniture, capturing stunning visuals on television, or strategising for his football team, Ssegujja Ivan continues to leave an indelible mark on Uganda’s creative, business, and sporting landscapes.
