By Mark Wamai
In this second edition of The Legacy, we talk to Henry Kiyimba Ssuubi, an alumnus who rose to fame in August 2019 when photos of him reporting to Makerere with a metallic suitcase resulted in cyberbullying. As fate would have it, rather than break him, cyberbullying instead opened so many doors for opportunity. Henry Kiyimba Ssuubi successfully completed his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and is currently undertaking an internship at Uganda Baati Limited.
- What was going through your mind on that first day when you learnt about people ridiculing you on Twitter?
I never knew that I was trending on Twitter until I sat in Mathias Ssemanda's office. It was only until I listened to him as Makerere’s Social Media Manager explain the magnitude of the situation that I began to understand the significance of that photo, which I was seeing for the first time on his computer screen. It was a simple image of me approaching University Hall with my belongings. It had sparked off conversations and debates about perseverance, and whether material possessions should stand as obstacles in the pursuit of one’s higher education dreams.
I hadn’t sought attention or validation from others and the realisation that I had accidentally become a subject of public interest worried me.
2. What kept you going throughout that trying time?
As I reflected on my journey I realised that my decision to take hold of an opportunity and show up at the mighty hill without any excuses had surpassed my own personal ambitions. It had become a symbol of hope for others facing similar challenges in their lives. This photo had unintentionally become a source of inspiration. It was humbling to see the impact that one small moment could have on the lives of so many. I swore to never take this privilege for granted and to always strive to be a positive role model for myself and everyone around me. I vowed to work hard and stay true to the values and principles that guided me from the very beginning. Instead of feeling burdened, I felt a renewed sense of purpose and determination.
3. How did you feel when suddenly you started hearing of all the people coming to your aid?
As I embarked on my journey at Makerere University, I was filled with uncertainty due to the prevailing circumstances at home that were challenging. However, the outpouring of generosity touched my heart profoundly.
Noteworthy contributors to my journey included Joadah Consult, which generously granted me a full scholarship to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, coupled with invaluable personal guidance and mentorship from the CEO, Eng. Aita Joel.
Bravo Shoes, too, provided footwear not just for me but also my siblings, while Dr. Drew Ddembe selflessly coordinated and cleared my mother's loans. Furthermore, Letshego donated a brand new motorcycle to my mother.
Additional support poured in from compassionate individuals such as Mr. Alan Kasujja, Madam Ruth Aine, Mr. Cedric Babu, Mr. Ian Rumanyika, and Dr. Ruhweza Daniel, who offered guidance and financial assistance to my mother. I am grateful to so many others whose collective support has been instrumental in my journey.
A Graphic of Henry Kiyimba Ssuubi reporting to Makerere
I witnessed firsthand that Ugandans are indeed good people. Their support transformed my journey and gave me the strength to overcome obstacles. I will forever be indebted to their kindness.
4. What was that first meeting with the Vice Chancellor like for you?
It was an incredible moment that I will cherish for a lifetime. Up to this day, I still wonder how lucky I was! I vividly recall the overwhelming feeling of excitement and shock as the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, warmly welcomed me in his office in the prestigious Ivory Tower.
Hearing the Vice Chancellor acknowledge my resilience and hard work reassured me that I had truly earned my place at Makerere. His words of encouragement filled me with a renewed sense of belief. It was at that moment that I decided to aim for the best out of my stay at Makerere University (first class).
I am forever grateful to the Vice Chancellor for his encouragement and confidence in my abilities, and I believe that with hard work, dedication and perseverance, I have managed to achieve the goal I set after that first meeting at Makerere.
5. What impact has coming to Makerere had on your life?
Being at Makerere University not only brought academic opportunities but also personal growth and maturity. The diverse student bodies introduced me to different cultures, perspectives and ideas that I had never encountered before. I forged a lot of friendships with people with whom we shared similar passions and ambitions and we supported each other throughout our academic journey.
The impact of my education at Makerere University extended beyond just myself. It had a positive ripple effect on my family as well. The financial burden that my mother bore for years was alleviated, thanks to the well-wishers. The bigger and better motorcycle she received is enabling her to go about her daily activities more comfortably.
Henry Kiyimba Ssuubi (Centre) with Eng. John Hiuh (Head of Maintenance UBL)-Right and Mr. Ian Rumanyika (Left)
My siblings too witnessed the transformative power of education through my experiences. They started to dream bigger and set higher goals for themselves. This motivated me to continue striving for not only my personal success but also to serve as a good role model for them.
6. What are the greatest lessons you’ve learned from your time at Makerere?
I have appreciated that success is not solely determined by external factors, and that one need not become discouraged when comparing accomplishments of others, especially those who come from more privileged backgrounds or have access to more resources at that moment.
I experienced firsthand that hard work and dedication are crucial ingredients in the recipe for success. Whether you choose to work hard or work smart, investing the necessary effort is essential. It is important to never underestimate the power of perseverance.
Furthermore, patience is an invaluable virtue in any pursuit. I learnt that success is not instantaneous, and that it pays to view challenges and obstacles as opportunities for growth and learning. Each setback ought to help us reevaluate, adapt and keep moving forward.
Most importantly, I have grown to appreciate that everyone's path is unique and what works for someone else may not work for you. You ought to set realistic goals for yourself and celebrate each milestone as a step towards success.
Henry Kiyimba Ssuubi in the Field
7. Any parting advice for our readers?
I have grown to appreciate that our potential knows no boundaries regardless of where we come from or the circumstances of our upbringing. What truly matters is the power of our aspirations and the actions we take to turn those dreams into reality. Finally, it is important to put our faith in a higher authority. We ought to seek guidance from God through prayer and have faith that His purpose will eventually unfold in our lives.
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