By Rita Kalendera
Mary Kababikira's journey from a small Ugandan town to the bright lights of communication is a testament to her unwavering dedication and passion for storytelling. Born and raised in Ibanda District, Kababikira studied in St. Helen's Primary School in Mbarara and Equatorial College School in Ibanda, before finding her footing at Makerere University.
Despite the challenges, Kababikira's thirst for knowledge and her natural aptitude for language shone through. Her high school days saw her excel as the top student, amidst a sea of boys, earning her a well-deserved scholarship to pursue her dream education.
"I always want to be the best," she admits, "but not just in getting high marks. I want to give it my best when I'm working, to emerge as the best."
Mary Kabarikira receiving her Best Communication Student award at the AMC 2023 awards
This drive to excel continued throughout her university years. While her classmates dreamed of attending the Annual Media Convention (an annual event held by the Department of Journalism and Communication, College of Humanities and Social Sciences), Kababikira focused on honing her skills, unaware of the accolade that awaited her. When Dr. John Baptist Imokola, her lecturer, invited her to attend, she thought there would be a simple photo taken and something little said about her. Little did she know, she would be crowned the Best Communication Student by the Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU).
This unexpected recognition was a turning point for Kababikira. It reaffirmed her dedication and instilled a newfound confidence in her abilities.
"I didn't expect to be the best in class," she confesses, "but it's always good to have something to work towards." This win wasn't just a personal achievement; it was a tribute to her parents, the driving force behind her ambition. "I never wanted to disappoint them," she adds, her voice filled with pride.
A desire to create change
Kababikira's passion for communication extends beyond academic accolades. Her internship at Iraka Radio, a local station in Ibanda, offered her a taste of the real world. Here, she honed her voice, reading news and captivating audiences. But it was during her fourth year at the university that her career path started to form. A guest lecturer, Ms Mabel Naibere exposed her to the transformative power of social and behaviour change communication.
Mary Kabarikira (left) with Dr. Patrick Atimnedi from UWA (centre) and Glory Mkandawire (right), the Chief of Party USAID SBCA during her internship.
The idea of using communication to educate, empower, and change lives resonated deeply with Kabarikira. She saw the potential in crafting messages that could influence people to sleep under mosquito nets, adopt healthier habits, or gain new perspectives. This realisation ignited a fire within her, setting her sights on a career in public relations.
Kabarikira then got an opportunity to work as a paid intern at the USAID SPCA John Hopkins Centre for Communication Programmes, where she put her skills to the test as a knowledge management intern. She says her quick wit and efficient work ethic impressed her colleagues, as did her ability to deliver projects in time.
Kabarikira's story doesn't end there. She continues to attend functions that she knows will enhance her knowledge and provide networks. She attended Public Relations week last year where she found valuable learning opportunities and connections. By attending these functions, she says one gets to "learn a lot by meeting so many people and building connections. Nowadays, connections enhance people and allow you to express yourself. It gives you a starting point."
Mary Kabarikira (centre) at a Public Relations Association of Uganda event.
Advice to students
Kabarikira's journey is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring communicators. Her message to students is clear: "There's no way you're going to pass without reading." But beyond textbooks, she emphasises the importance of staying updated with current events, engaging with the media, and understanding the communication strategies employed by successful organisations. "Practice," she urges, "and picture yourself solving real-world problems with communication tools."
Kababikira's story is one of resilience, dedication, and a deep-seated passion for the power of communication. As she navigates the exciting world of public relations, she is eager to have a positive impact s on the lives of those around her.
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