Kasule Douglas Benda
In a world where many health conditions are openly discussed, lupus remains one of the least understood, particularly in Uganda. Yet behind the silence are real people fighting real battles every day and these are stories that deserve to be heard. This month, the Bosch Alumni Network Uganda Initiative is stepping forward to change that narrative through a powerful gathering and documentary screening titled “Shining a Light on Lupus”. The event will take place on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Busabala Cinema Gear House in Kampala.
They will be screening a short documentary that follows the journey of Derrick Mpagi, a lupus patient, advocate, and one of the coordinators of the project. Derrick has walked through the painful realities of living with lupus like late diagnosis, stigma, emotional strain, and the constant need to explain an invisible illness. Instead of turning inward, he has chosen to use his experience to speak for others who silently endure the same struggle. Working alongside filmmaker and impact producer Nazzinda Ruth, Derrick’s story becomes a powerful tool for awareness. As Ruth beautifully puts it, “Through this project, we are turning pain into purpose.” With support from the Bosch Alumni Network and the International Alumni Center Berlin, the two are using film and community engagement to foster empathy, understanding, and action.
To those who don’t know, Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, and other organs of the body. In Uganda, many people experience long journeys of misdiagnosis or are dismissed due to lack of awareness. Others face stigma or isolation brought on by stereotypes and misinformation. This is why the upcoming gathering is so important. It brings together film, dialogue, and real-life testimonies to help communities better understand the condition and support those living with it.
The Bosch Alumni Network Uganda Initiative continues to bring together social innovators, educators, creatives, and advocates who are dedicated to using their skills and platforms to create meaningful social change. Through collaboration, mentorship, and creative advocacy such as this project, they aim to build a more informed and compassionate society.
If you are interested in attending, get in touch with either Mpagi Derrick on [email protected] | +256 746 708 600 or Nazzinda Ruth on [email protected] | +256 787 432 239
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