Uganda’s Justin Bieber
Alex Ssekweyama lives in the western Ugandan village of Kakumiro. His family’s status in the community comes from his mother’s success – people walk far distances to visit her drug shop where she doesn’t only dispense life-saving medications, she also confirms diagnoses, makes referrals to hospitals and always shares a kind word and gentle touch. The family home is the only gated one on the street, and the property is packed with prized mango, banana and orange trees.
Life here serves as the inspiration for Alex’s singing and songwriting. When he heard we were coming to visit, he put on his best suit – a dark, over-sized jacket with pants that nearly matched.
He was beaming when he greeted us.
My name is Rioman. Well, that’s what I call myself when I sing, he grinned. And I want to be Justin Bieber.
He could hardly contain himself while his three sisters introduced themselves to us. When the youngest girl–a dimpled 7-year-old–was finished speaking, Rioman stepped forward to perform.
As we were leaving, he handed us a couple light blue air mail envelopes with this message inside:
Dear my friend, I am so grateful and happy that you have visited our home… Although I am still an upcoming artist to start my music and acting talent in 2013, I see it as my task to make your friends, relatives and parents my friends as well. As you go back to your respective homelands, tell them that Rioman Ssekweyama Alex loves them so much…
So there it is, my friends. A young man from Uganda who has talent, a dream, and the charisma to be discovered.
I simply adore your site! I couldn’t find a contact form so I hope you don’t mind me posting here. Cheers! Dennis Gorden
Hello! I just would like to give a huge thumbs up for the great info you have here on this post. I will be coming back to your blog for more soon.
Can I just say what a relief to find someone who actually knows what theyre talking about on the internet. You definitely know how to bring an issue to light and make it important. More people need to read this and understand this side of the story. I cant believe youre not more popular because you definitely have the gift.