Kyambadde kicks off Johnnie Walker’s inaugural ‘She Walks’ mentorship program

Launched under the theme "Purposeful Strides, Scaling Hills In Heels," the exclusive event held at the Kampala Serena Hotel attracted distinguished female leaders from various industries, including banking, law, manufacturing, business, and politics.

Kyambadde shares her life story

Hon. Amelia Kyambadde, the Senior Presidential Advisor and former Minister for Trade graced the occasion as the keynote speaker.

The exclusive event held at the Kampala Serena Hotel attracted distinguished female leaders from various industries pulse uganda

She shared her remarkable journey of determination and triumph, emphasizing the importance of women uniting to claim their space. Ms. Kyambadde highlighted the transformative power of initiatives like She Walks in fostering unity and empowerment.

In her keynote address, Ms. Kyambadde offered guests an intimate look into her life and upbringing. She spoke about growing up with a single father, having a blended family, and experiencing an early marriage. She explained how these experiences shaped her character and spirit of resilience, ultimately propelling her to achieve her goals.

“I came to Uganda when I was five with a single father,” Ms. Kyambadde said. “I was raised by multiple people including my grandparents, and that led to a feeling of need to guarantee my security, hence jumping into an early marriage, just after my A-levels. It was hard, but I did not let that faze me, because what I went through from the age of five built my character into the woman I am today; from a mere secretariat study, to an MBA and now to pursuing my PHD. I was resilient, I dreamed about doing something even bigger than myself, and I am glad I did.”

Ms. Kyambadde offered guests an intimate look into her life and upbringing. pulse uganda

Ms. Kyambadde also shared the experiences that shaped her patriotic spirit and her decision to return to Uganda to work. She spoke about fighting to take up space as a woman and using her voice to advocate for the voiceless and fight for the vulnerable and women.

Andrew Kilonzo, the Managing Director of Uganda Breweries Ltd, echoed Ms. Kyambadde's sentiments. He underlined the brand's commitment to inclusivity and progress. Mr. Kilonzo praised She Walks as a platform for celebrating women who, like Johnnie Walker, have persevered and thrived in diverse capacities.

The ex-minister explained how these experiences shaped her character and spirit of resilience, ultimately propelling her to achieve her goals pulse uganda

“She Walks is about bringing women together and celebrating those who, much like Johnnie Walker, have kept walking in their different spaces and capacities,” said Mr. Kilonzo.

“These are women who have had to reinvent themselves and have made progress in their respective fields. The story from our Guest of Honour tonight is just that, a journey of resilience and reinvention.”

“As Johnnie Walker, and Uganda Breweries Ltd, the company’s stance on inclusivity lies at the core of our brand ethos, aligning seamlessly with our societal commitments for 2030,” Mr. Kilonzo added.

Some of the ladies that turned up for the event pulse uganda

“So, as we celebrate women this month and beyond, we pledge to champion women through collaborative partnerships with exceptional individuals such as yourselves. With the She Walks program, we aspire not only to showcase this spirit of progress, but to also ignite inspiration among the next generation of women.”

A highlight of the evening was a scotch mentorship session. Guests were treated to an exquisite four-course whiskey pairing experience featuring Johnnie Walker's iconic labels. From themed cocktails to neat pours, the ladies enjoyed a comprehensive introduction to scotch.

“She Walks is not just an event, it is a movement, an agenda that we as a brand are intentional about,” said Catherine Ndungu, Marketing Director of Uganda Breweries Limited.

“We want to highlight the unique success stories of the women that we look up to. We want to say that Johnnie Walker is for you, to celebrate your milestones, and to wind down with your colleagues and peers.”

The ladies were also treated to a self-care session led by Mona Faces, a celebrated makeup artist and entrepreneur. Ms. Faces shared valuable self-care insights, encouraging women to prioritize wellness even as they keep moving forward.