In a move to empower Uganda’s vibrant youth, Ghetto Got Talent (#GGT), an initiative organized by Brand Ambassadors 256, has been officially launched by the State Minister of Youth and Children Affairs, Hon. Balaam Barugahara, in a ceremony that highlighted the transformative potential of talent.
Speaking at the launch, Hon. Balaam Barugahara expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, encouraging all talented youths from Uganda’s ghettos to seize this opportunity to showcase their talents.
“This is a platform for real change. We call upon all talented youth in Uganda’s ghettos to participate in order to elevate themselves by sending their audition videos via WhatsApp to +256 394804977 / +256 759958138 or through email; ghetogottalentug@gmail.com,” he urged.
The team leader of Brand Ambassadors 256 and the founder of Ghetto Got Talent, Amumpaire Bismac Moses, a passionate advocate for development and sustainability, highlighted that Ghetto Got Talent is designed to be a holistic empowerment experience for the finalists.
“This star search is a comprehensive initiative aimed at uplifting young people in every aspect of their lives,” he said.
Finalists in Ghetto Got Talent will undergo a bootcamp where they will be empowered in crucial areas such as Financial Literacy, Mental Health, Digital Marketing, Branding, Social Etiquette, Career Guidance, Promotions, Patriotism, Sexual Reproductive Health Education, and, of course, Talent Development. This comprehensive approach ensures that participants not only shine on stage but also in life.
The competition promises significant rewards, with the top three winners slated to receive cash prizes and ambassadorial roles, alongside numerous other privileges designed to propel them into successful careers.
The launch marks a significant milestone in the journey towards empowering Uganda’s youth and harnessing the raw talent within the nation’s ghettos.
Below is the detailed statement by Hon. Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi ;
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THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA
MINISTRY OF GENDER, LABOUR AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
PRESS STATEMENT
29TH/08/2024
Distinguished guests, partners, media the youth of Uganda, all of you present here and everyone watching us LIVE from any part of Uganda, I am deeply honored to stand before you as we launch the Ghetto Got Talent Star Search.
This initiative represents a crucial platform for nurturing and showcasing the diverse and vibrant talents that reside within our communities, particularly those often marginalized or overlooked.
Our country is blessed with an abundance of talent, creativity, and potential. The young people of Uganda are innovators, creators, and change-makers. Initiatives like Ghetto Got Talent are critical in empowering our youth, giving them a voice, and enabling them to shine on platforms that will propel them towards greater opportunities.
Ministry’s Support
The youth in Uganda face significant challenges, one of the most pressing being unemployment. With over 78% of the population under the age of 30, Uganda has one of the youngest populations in the world. However, this demographic dividend is at risk if we do not address the high levels of unemployment and underemployment that plague our young people.
Unemployment among the youth is a complex issue that requires multifaceted solutions. It is not just about creating jobs; it is about creating the right jobs and ensuring that young people have the skills and opportunities to access these jobs. The arts and entertainment industry offers a unique opportunity to address youth unemployment by providing alternative career paths that are both fulfilling and economically viable.
The Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development is proud to support Ghetto Got Talent. This initiative aligns perfectly with our broader mission to empower the youth, promote social development, and ensure that every young person in Uganda has the opportunity to fulfill their potential. The Ministry recognizes that the arts and entertainment industry is a vital sector that can provide significant employment opportunities and economic benefits for our young people.
Our support for this initiative is grounded in our commitment to fostering a culture of creativity, innovation, and resilience among the youth. Through platforms like Ghetto Got Talent, we aim to create pathways that will lead to sustainable livelihoods, reduce unemployment, and ultimately contribute to the socio-economic development of our country.
Impact of Ghetto Got Talent:
This platform will provide young people with the opportunity to express themselves, showcase their talents, and gain recognition for their abilities. It is an avenue for them to break free from the challenges that often come with growing up in underprivileged communities, such as limited access to quality education, exposure to crime, and lack of employment opportunities.
Youth involvement in such initiatives helps to promote social cohesion and unity. It brings together young people from different backgrounds, encouraging them to learn from one another, collaborate, and build networks that can support their personal and professional growth.
The Ghetto Got Talent initiative has the potential to transform lives, boost self-esteem, and inspire young people to pursue their dreams. The exposure and opportunities that come with participating in Ghetto Got Talent can open doors to careers in the arts, media, and entertainment industries—sectors that are increasingly contributing to Uganda’s economy.
Moreover, the initiative serves as a beacon of hope for the youth in our ghettos. It demonstrates that their talents are valued and that with determination and hard work, they can achieve greatness. Ghetto Got Talent also encourages young people to stay away from negative influences and instead focus on honing their skills and talents.
Boot camp and Life skills Training:
One of the most commendable aspects of Ghetto Got Talent is the inclusion of a boot camp, where participants will be taught various life skills. This is a crucial component that goes beyond talent development; it prepares our youth for the challenges they may face in life and equips them with the tools they need to succeed.
During the boot camp, participants will receive training in financial literacy, communication skills, leadership, entrepreneurship, and more. These skills are essential for their personal development and future success, both within and outside the entertainment industry. The Ministry fully supports this holistic approach, as it ensures that our youth are not only talented but also well-rounded individuals who are ready to contribute positively to society.
Conclusion:
I want to commend the organizers of Ghetto Got Talent-Brand Ambassadors 256 in partnership with UBC, for their vision and dedication to empowering the youth of Uganda. This initiative is a shining example of what can be achieved when we invest in our young people and provide them with the platforms and opportunities they need to succeed.
The Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development stands ready to continue supporting initiatives like Ghetto Got Talent. We believe in the potential of our youth, and we are committed to working together with all stakeholders to ensure that every young person in Uganda has the opportunity to realize their dreams.
To the participants in the Ghetto Got Talent, I encourage you to make the most of this opportunity. Use this platform to showcase your talents, learn new skills, and build a brighter future for yourselves and your communities.
In that regard, I would like to say, that Ghetto Got Talent Star Search is officially launched.
FOR GOD AND MY COUNTRY
(Children and Youth Affairs)
HON. BALAAM BARUGAHARA ATEENYI “
