From humble beginnings as an Administrative Assistant, I embarked on a transformative journey that culminated in my appointment as Chief of Human Resources at Makerere University Business School. My nineteen-year tenure
was marked by unwavering dedication, a thirst for knowledge, and an unyielding belief in the power of perseverance. This professional journey was not without its challenges; it was punctuated by leadership transitions, unforeseen circumstances, and personal growth. Yet, through it all, I cultivated a deep-rooted foundation of humility, hard work, and patience—qualities that have been instrumental in my success.

My journey commenced in July 2004 when I joined Makerere University Business School as an Administrative Assistant in the Human Resource Office. Under the mentorship of Dr. Michael Kakooza, the then School Secretary and Dr. Francis Yosa, the then Human Resource Manager, I immersed myself in every facet of HR, from recruitment and training to performance management and employee relations. This comprehensive exposure ignited a passion for the field and laid the groundwork for my future career.

As a young and eager professional, I embraced every opportunity to learn and grow. My meticulous attention to
detail and dedication to my work quickly earned me recognition, propelling me through the ranks to Administrator, Senior Administrator, and eventually Assistant Director. This rapid rise was a testament to my commitment to excellence and my ability to deliver results.

The trajectory of my career was unexpectedly punctuated by multiple leadership transitions within the HR department. In 2014, when the anticipated promotion to HR Manager did not materialize, I found myself supporting a new acting HR Manager, a close colleague. This pattern repeated itself in 2016 and again in 2021. Rather than allowing these changes to derail my progress, I chose to view them as opportunities for growth and collaboration. By fostering strong relationships with my colleagues, who were also my supervisors, I created a harmonious work environment where we could focus on achieving shared goals. Orienting new leaders on the intricacies of the HR department while maintaining a professional demeanour required a delicate balance.

However, my belief in the overarching purpose of my work and my commitment to the institution propelled me forward. I found strength in my ability to adapt, learn, and contribute meaningfully to each leadership team.
A pivotal element of my journey has been the cultivation of strong professional relationships. Working closely with three different supervisors, all of whom were also my friends, presented unique challenges and opportunities. By fostering an environment of trust, respect, and open communication, I was able to navigate these complexities successfully.

The ability to build and maintain positive relationships is essential for effective teamwork and collaboration. My experience has taught me the importance of empathy, active listening, and a genuine interest in the success of
others. These qualities have not only enhanced my professional life but have also enriched my personal growth.
My professional journey was not without its challenges. The unexpected turns in leadership and the inherent
complexities of managing human resources tested my resilience and determination. There were moments of doubt and frustration, but I chose to view these obstacles as opportunities for growth. By maintaining a positive outlook and focusing on solutions rather than problems, I was able to navigate these challenges successfully.

It was essential to prioritize the well- being of the team and the institution as a whole, even amidst personal setbacks. Ultimately, these experiences forged my character and equipped me with the skills to overcome future hurdles. It is through hardship that one truly discovers their strength and capacity for resilience.

The culmination of my career journey was the appointment as Chief of Human Resources in 2023. This achievement was a testament to years of hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in my abilities. The path to this role was not without its challenges, but each experience served as a stepping stone towards my ultimate goal.
Reflecting on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities I have encountered and the people who have supported me along the way. It is a privilege to serve as a leader in the field of human resources and to contribute to the success of Makerere University Business School.

My journey from an Administrative Assistant to the Chief of Human Resources at Makerere University Business
School has been a remarkable one, shaped by perseverance, resilience, and a steadfast belief in the power of human
connection. Through the challenges and triumphs, I have learned the invaluable lessons of humility, hard work, and
patience. I encourage aspiring professionals to embrace every opportunity for growth, cultivate strong relationships, and never lose sight of their goals. With dedication and determination, even the most challenging paths can lead to extraordinary achievements. It is my hope that my story inspires others to pursue their passions with unwavering
conviction and to find fulfilment in their professional journeys.