My name is Kusemererwa, but most people call me Kuset. I’m a documentary filmmaker and photographer born and raised in Uganda. I have always believed in the power of storytelling, especially when it comes to inspiring change in our communities. Storytelling is not just my work; it’s been my way of overcoming challenges in life. Through it, I’ve found purpose, and it’s helped me push through tough times.

One story that stays with me is a door-to-door photo campaign I did to raise money for my wife’s hospital bills. I set out to take 1,000 photos, hoping to raise enough to cover the costs. Though we didn’t quite meet our financial target, I’m incredibly grateful for the support we received. That campaign not only helped us bring our baby into the world but also reminded me of the power of community and the importance of doing your best, even when things don’t go as planned.

Over time, I’ve felt a strong calling to work with young people, especially children and youth. I spend a lot of time with them, guiding and learning from them. They are the future, and I believe that if we invest in their growth, we are investing in a better future for our society.

One of my passions is sports, particularly cycling. I’m proud to be a member of the Masaka Cycling Club, where I’ve had the opportunity to witness the incredible talent and determination of young cyclists in Uganda. But one of the things I care about most is making sure that all young people, especially girls, are given the same opportunities in sports. For many years, cycling has been seen as a male-dominated sport in Uganda. But I’m passionate about changing that. I believe that when we support girls to join cycling, we’re not just supporting them to ride bikes—we’re supporting their right to equality, to challenge stereotypes, and to break down the barriers that hold them back.

Girls in Uganda, like everywhere, face a lot of challenges. From cultural expectations to limited access to education and resources, the odds can be stacked against them. That’s why it’s so important for us to support girls in sports like cycling. When a girl rides a bike, she’s not just riding for fun—she’s proving that she can be just as strong, just as talented, and just as capable as anyone else. Cycling is a way for them to build confidence, gain independence, and challenge the ideas that limit their potential. It’s about equality for all. Every child, no matter their gender, should have the same opportunities to excel and make their mark in the world.

Over the years, I’ve worked with various community organizations and NGOs to tell stories that drive change. I’ve had the privilege of volunteering in places like Lwengo and Rakai, where I work closely with young people, especially girls, helping them access education and supporting their personal growth. Through COF I have been able to support many young people as they strive for better futures through education, sports, and leadership development. These stories of hope and determination fuel my passion for filmmaking. I want to show the world the strength and resilience of Uganda’s youth.

When I see the impact of my work and how my stories help bring about change, it’s the most fulfilling feeling. There’s nothing quite like knowing that your efforts have made a difference in someone’s life. That’s what makes me proud as a local filmmaker. I’m not just telling stories for the sake of telling them; I’m telling stories to inspire, to challenge, and to create real change.

If you believe in the power of storytelling and the importance of equality, I invite you to join me on this journey. Together, we can tell the stories that matter, stories that uplift and inspire, and stories that create a future where every young person regardless of gender has the chance to dream big and achieve their goals.