Let us ignite the spark of poetry within you, and together, let us create a world where words can change lives.
Philip Matogo, Co-Founder and President
Philip Matogo is a Ugandan writer and poet. He has written two books, Whispers in the Sky and Fabric of Grey. He is also the curator of the Songs of Kiguli writing project.
Songs of Kiguli began as a literary movement in Nakasongola district, Uganda, to promote literature amongst rural schoolchildren. As the project was embraced by Kiguli Army Primary School, Nakasongola, it grew to include children in the USA. To date, it has 4 anthologies to its credit.
Philip also writes politics, satire and contributes to cultural conversations by writing for several esteemed newspapers and well-regarded journals. In an illustrious writing career, his words have been published in several scholarly books and poetry anthologies worldwide.
Dr. Ampat Koshy- Vice President and Co-Founder, Uganda Poetry Society:
Dr. Ampat Koshy is a prolific poet, writer, and scholar with an impressive array of publications to his name. With over 35 books to his credit, he has established himself as a versatile and accomplished literary figure. His works span multiple genres, including poetry, fiction, literary criticism, and theory, showcasing his mastery of language and his profound insights into the human experience.
As a poet, Ampat Koshy has been widely published in numerous esteemed journals, earning recognition for his unique voice and perspective. His poetry collections have garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, with several bestsellers to his name.
In addition to his writing, Ampat Koshy has had a distinguished teaching career, having taught literature at several universities around the world, including a notable stint in Saudi Arabia. He is currently Assistant Professor in the English Department of Mount Carmel College, Autonomous, Bengaluru, where he continues to inspire and mentor a new generation of writers and scholars.
Through his work as an editor and anthology maker, Ampat Koshy has also played a significant role in shaping the literary landscape, providing a platform for emerging voices and showcasing the diversity of contemporary writing. His contributions to literature are a testament to his dedication, passion, and expertise, solidifying his position as a respected and beloved figure in the literary community.
Eva Rukikaire Mwine (Co-Founder)
Eva Rukikaire Mwine ((Co-Founder) is a multifaceted individual who has made significant contributions in the worlds of art, fashion and Literature, specifically in fields of social political commentary and poetry. As a writer she has engaged in public conversations on a range of topics.
Her articles have covered global, continental and regional issues that have been known to spark critical discussions among her readership. Eva’s passion for using poetry as a tool for advocacy is evident in her writings on public causes such as Climate Change, Maternal Health, Vaccine Apartheid and a number of issues under the Pan-African agenda. One of her most popular poems is ‘Dreams for My Daughter,’ an evocative piece which she has performed at conferences representing the White Ribbon Alliance for Safe Motherhood over the years.
Victoria “Mama Kiguli” Adams (Co-Founder)
Victoria “Mama Kiguli” Adams (Co-Founder) is a poet, an accountant, a business director, author and publisher of Songs of Kiguli. Songs of Kiguli is a series of anthologies written by children in Nakasongola (Uganda) and Florida (USA) and published in the USA. Asked about what she thinks of poetry in Uganda, she says: “I hear this voice in the children of Uganda.
Young people who are quite realistic about the problems their country faces and who are not afraid to become a part of the solution. Through their poetry they will build bridges, they will build platforms, they will find a path for their country – their voice will be heard.”
Her book “Who I Am Yesterday: A Path To Coping With a Loved One’s Dementia” is her personal journey through the first year of learning to manage the day-to-day joys and tribulations of living with a loved one’s dementia.
Katherine Rascoe (Co-Founder)
Katherine Rascoe (Co-Founder) is a seasoned educator with a poetic sense and the societal sensibilities to make poetry transcend borders to change lives. Although a science teacher, it was her passion for the creative arts and her sheer humanity that initially sparked the four Songs of Kiguli books.
“Our student’s knowledge of Africa is limited. Television and movies give them much of their knowledge, which is often inaccurate or lacking important information. We created an interdisciplinary lesson that was done in all of the classes to explore Uganda and teach the students the many aspects they were unaware of.
Each subject area taught the students specific characteristics about the country they had grown to love. Songs of Kiguli gave students the opportunity to explore videos of Uganda and cities such as Kampala. As a result of these lessons and the interactions with their new friends, the students became interested about the different cultures,” she says. Katherine personifies the words “make the world safer for diversity.”
Cindy Marie Camp (Co-Founder)
Cindy Marie Camp (Co-Founder) is a director and owner of her own state registered home daycare: Kids Day Camp LLC. She has spent much of her adult life developing and imparting literacy and numeracy skills as a selfless teacher with a singular vision to do right by her pupils and her community. A lady who walks in cheerful spirit, to paraphrase Lord Byron, she is a healer of cultural divides.
When she was a teacher at Robinswood Middle School, Florida, USA, she helped co-found Songs of Kiguli: The International Edition.
“Poetry can build bridges and cross borders. Sharing stories and allowing students to have safe meaningful interactions with people from a variety of backgrounds will allow them to grow to become better global citizens,” she says.
Emenobazi Usetu Unoh (Co-Founder)
Emenobazi Usetu Unoh (Co-Founder) is a much sought-after Nigerian lawyer, writer and editor. He has 23 years’ multidisciplinary experience working with employers and clients to deliver value whether as a teacher, legal practitioner, draughtsman, creative writer, editor or researcher. He is adept in litigation and proactive case management, research, amicable settlement of disputes, and boasts excellent organizational and communication skills. He is fluent in English and his natal Nne Language with a working knowledge of Efik/Ibibio.
A Creative Writer (with an oeuvre of over 30 manuscripts) an Author (with two collections of short stories and one collection of poems) and Freelance Editor (with almost 50 full-length manuscripts edited for different writers), Emenobazi is phenomenal. Two books he has edited have gained coveted laurels. These are Sasi Jaja’s Native Foreigners (1 st Runner-Up, Association of Nigerian Authors Prize for Prose 2019) and Ogochukwu Akunefo’s The Price of Revenge (Recommended reading for Roachdale Early Advantage Charter School, Jamaica, New York, USA).
Parvathy Salil (Co-Founder)
Parvathy Salil currently pursues her PhD at Teesside University, UK, as a recipient of a prestigious scholarship. Her literary repertoire boasts an impressive array of published works, each a testament to her mastery of language and creative expression. Parvathy’s scholastic journey commenced with a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and Communication Studies, which she completed with an overall A+, a feat that underscored her innate talent and dedication.
Her thirst for knowledge then led her to the hallowed halls of SOAS University of London, where she earned a Master’s degree in Gender Studies with Distinction, further solidifying her expertise in the realm of social sciences. Her academic odyssey continued with a Postgraduate Diploma in Liberal Studies, as a Young India Fellow (2019), an honor that acknowledged her intellectual curiosity and passion for interdisciplinary learning.
Additionally, she holds a Master’s degree in English Literature from St. Teresa’s College a testament to her profound love for the written word. Through her scholarly pursuits, Parvathy Salil has established herself as a formidable force in the literary world.
Edna Kusiima (Co-Founder)
Edna Kusiima, Co-Founder, is a multifaceted individual whose passions seamlessly blend the worlds of science and art. As a budding scientist, she has cultivated a keen eye for detail and a curiosity-driven spirit. However, it was her chance encounter with the realm of poetry that truly set her soul ablaze. Enchanted by the magic of ink, paper, and verse, Edna found herself irreversibly drawn to the world of words.
With a heart full of enthusiasm and a mind full of wonder, Edna has become a steadfast supporter of prominent poetry platforms in Uganda and beyond. Her dedication to the craft has led her to volunteer with esteemed initiatives such as Open Mic and Teens Poetry Slam, which have served as launching pads for some of the country’s most talented poets.
Through her tireless efforts, Edna has played a pivotal role in nurturing the growth of Uganda’s vibrant poetry scene, providing a platform for emerging voices to be heard and celebrated. Her love for poetry knows no bounds, and her commitment to fostering a community that cherishes creativity and self-expression has made her a beloved figure among poets and writers alike.
Paul Obonyo (Co-Founder)
Paul Obonyo (Co-Founder) is a multifaceted creative force with a rich background in visual arts, spanning over two decades.
As a skilled artist, he has honed his craft, exploring various mediums and techniques to express his unique vision. However, his artistic expression extends far beyond the visual realm, as he is also a devoted literary aficionado.
When not immersed in his creative space, his voracious appetite for knowledge and understanding drives him to explore the depths of human existence and the mysteries of the universe.
At the core of Paul’s being lies a profound commitment to Pan Africanism something that resonates deeply with his soul.
Through his art, literature, and activism, Paul Obonyo endeavors to inspire a new era of African consciousness, fostering a deeper understanding of the continent’s history, culture, and spiritual traditions.
His creative endeavors and philosophical pursuits converge in a shared quest to empower and uplift the African soul.
Elisha Nelly Mukiibi (Product and Brand Developer)
Elisha Nelly Mukiibi (Product and Brand Developer) is a seasoned business development consultant, hospitality innovator, and event manager known for blending artistic passion with strategic insights to drive impactful change. With a career dedicated to elevating the hospitality sector, Elisha has built a reputation for excellence through innovative projects, creative works, and execution.
At the heart of Elisha’s professional journey is Beruj Consults, where Elisha provides comprehensive hospitality consultancy services. Specializing in hospitality audits, product development, and hospitality consultancy, Elisha ensures that clients achieve excellence in both operations and customer experience.
Through strategic staff training, recruitment, product and business development, equipment sourcing, management, and repair, Elisha has helped numerous hospitality establishments enhance their offerings and achieve their business goals.
Ddumba Nyanzi (Editor-in-Chief)
Meet Ddumba Nyanzi, renowned writer and poetry expert. As Editor-in-Chief of the Uganda Poetry Association, Ddumba:
– Discovers and develops new talent
– Mentors writers to refine their craft
– Curates content for publications
– Collaborates with writers to refine their work
– Promotes Ugandan poetry globally
With years of experience and passion for poetry, Ddumba expertly leads the association, nurturing emerging voices and showcasing Ugandan poetry worldwide.
Harlord Ankwasa (Corporate Relations Manager)
Harlord Ankwasa is a youthful Ugandan poet from Kabale. He is the founder of the poetry group Rise Africa (Art Unity), which unites creatives across Africa to keep art afloat. He is deputy Secretary at Uganda Poets Against Sexual Harassment, Assault, and Rape (UPASHASAR).
His poetry journey sparked off in 2015 at 15 years of age. Since then, his works have taken the world by storm in international magazines like The Sailors Magazine, New Best African Poets 2020, and various anthologies.
