By Rita Kalendera
Rhonnet Atwiine , a recent graduate of Makerere University's Bachelor of Journalism and Communication programme, is making waves, in her own way in the Ugandan media landscape. Atwiine recently won the prestigious Cranimer Mugerwa Photography Award for her photo essay documenting efforts to provide reusable sanitary pads to girls in rural communities.
Atwiine receives the Cranimer Mugerwa Photography Award from the Vision Group CEO, Mr. Don Wanyama
Atwiine’s journey to becoming an award-winning journalist began not with competition but with a drive to excel. A self-described "go-getter," Atwiine identified journalism as her passion early on and dedicated herself to honing her craft. She attended Lohana Primary School for her primary and Buloba High School for her secondary schooling. It was at Makerere University, however, where she truly flourished. Majoring in journalism and communication, she embraced every opportunity to hone her craft.
Despite not having personal connections in the media industry, she actively participated in class projects, volunteered her work to professors for feedback, and constantly sought opportunities to improve.
Her relentless pursuit of excellence did not go unnoticed. Atwiine’s professors recognised her talent and work ethic. It was during her fourth year, known for its intense project load in journalism at Makerere, that Atwiine produced the photo essay that would win her the Mugerwa Award.
“Winning the Cranimer Mugerwa award for best photographer student means the world to me. It's not just a recognition of my skills but also a validation of the hard work and passion I've put into photography and videography, this award inspires me to continue pushing boundaries and striving for excellence in my craft,” Atwiine says. The essay focused on the challenges faced by girls in rural areas who lack access to sanitary pads due to their high cost. Atwiine’s powerful photographs documented the innovative efforts to create reusable pads, offering a glimpse into a solution for a critical health issue.
Atwiine behind the camera during her training at the Media Challenge Initiative
Atwiine credits her success to several factors. First and foremost, she emphasises the importance of self-belief and identifying one's strengths. She also highlights the value of feedback, encouraging aspiring journalists to constantly seek critiques to improve their work. But perhaps the most significant influence on her development was the fellowship programme at the Media Challenge Initiative (MCI).
“The MCI fellowship provided me with invaluable opportunities to learn from experienced journalists and collaborate with talented peers,” Atwiine says. This programme broadened her skillset beyond traditional reporting, introducing her to video production and cinematography. Atwiine feels that the MCI played a crucial role in shaping her into the well-rounded journalist she is today.
Atwiine receives a certificate from Ms. Anna Reismann, the Country Director for Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Uganda
Currently, Atwiine is putting her skills to good use as a health journalist at Solutions Now Africa, a news organisation dedicated to documenting solutions-based stories. Her focus on health aligns perfectly with her award-winning photo essay, showcasing her commitment to highlighting positive change within Ugandan communities.
Atwiine’s story is an inspiration. It demonstrates the power of hard work, self-belief, and seizing opportunities. Her dedication to her craft and her focus on solutions-oriented journalism position her for a bright future in telling stories that need to be highlighted.
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