By Aulah Najjuuka
During her first semester, Bridget Sarah Nakamatte discovered a new found passion for tailoring within her faculty building, despite her initial focus on visual arts and design, which included painting, sculpture, and digital arts.
In 2021, Nakamatte began her educational journey at Uganda Christian University (UCU) in Mukono district, where she is pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Visual Arts and Design. Influenced by her parents’ belief in the supportive environment of a Christian institution, Nakamatte sought discipline and spiritual growth through her studies.
“I remember when my parents told me to come to UCU. I wasn’t the happiest because I thought it would be like a Catholic secondary school, but I’m glad I didn’t pass up the opportunity.” Nakamatte said
With the encouragement of her teachers and parents, she honed her skills in tailoring using an electric sewing machine available in the faculty.
Although this path diverged from her original degree programme, Nakamatte’s dedication to her new passion paid off as she seamlessly combined her tailoring expertise with her academic studies, infusing her textile creations with elements of art and design.
Nakamatte’s talent was recognized at the National Council of Higher Education Exhibition held at the UCU Mbale Campus, where her innovative approach to tailoring caught the attention of attendees and potential clients seeking her unique designs. This exhibition marked the beginning of Nakamatte’s entrepreneurial journey, where she used her artistic skills and technical expertise to serve a growing clientele. “I’m so happy that my work was noticed at the exhibition in Mbale, and finally I’m monetizing my business, and I don’t think this would have been possible without the helping hand of UCU.”
Moving forward, Nakamatte envisions a promising future in the fashion industry, leveraging the skills she acquired at UCU to establish a niche for herself. Driven by a passion for creativity and a commitment to excellence, she aims to make a meaningful impact and showcase her talents to the world.
As Nakamatte continues to blend her artistic vision with her entrepreneurial drive, her story exemplifies the transformative power of education and the endless possibilities that come with pursuing one’s dreams. “I want anyone reading this to know that as long as you pursue your dreams and you have God on your side, nothing can go wrong.”
Through her work, the fabric becomes a medium of self-expression, with each stitch narrating a tale of resilience, creativity, and unwavering determination.