Born: 2003 (age 22)
Nationality: Ugandan
Occupation: Actress, vocalist, violinist
Education: Victoria University Kampala (International Relations and Diplomatic Studies)
Notable Works: Sanyu, Journey to Jamaa, I Found My Way, #Family
Awards: Africa Monologue Challenge Winner
Early Life and Education
Who is Rachael Nduhukire?
Rachael Nduhukire is a Ugandan actress, vocalist, and violinist. Born in 2003, she started acting at just eight years old.
Beyond film, she is passionate about global change and hopes to contribute to international relations in the future. “I am passionate about impacting change globally and while I currently do this through film, I hope to exercise this through international relations in the near future,” she says.
What did she study?
Nduhukire pursued a degree in International Relations and Diplomatic Studies at Victoria University Kampala.
She graduated as Valedictorian with First-Class Honors and a GPA of 4.84. “It takes a village, and you have been part of that village. The journey was far from easy, but today by God’s grace, I graduate with a First Class Honors Degree and as Valedictorian with a GPA of 4.84. For your continued prayer, support, affirmation and encouragement. I am beyond grateful. May God Bless you abundantly,” she said upon graduating.
Career
When did Rachael Nduhukire start acting?
She started acting in 2010 when she was eight years old. Her mother saw a casting call and took her and her sisters for auditions. “None of us had ever acted before, but my parents are very artistic and fervent believers in the arts,” she recalls. She landed the role of Margret in Journey to Jamaa and has been in the industry ever since.
Did she always want to be an actress?
Surprisingly, no. “Honestly, it isn’t. I wanted to be a teacher,” she says. As a child, she would gather her dolls and pretend to teach them. She still dreams of opening a school one day to educate children.
What is the Africa Monologue Challenge, and why was her win significant?
The Africa Monologue Challenge is a pan-African competition that promotes storytelling to reshape Africa’s narrative. Nduhukire was the only Ugandan participant and emerged as the winner. “The win enabled Uganda to gain some exposure in Ghana and gives us the opportunity to film a pan-Africanist movie,” she says. Uganda will also host the next challenge, creating more opportunities for local creatives.
Film and Television Work
What roles has she played?
Nduhukire is best known for playing Melissa in Sanyu, a young, privileged, and sometimes spoilt girl. She has also acted in Journey to Jamaa, I Found My Way, and #Family.
Is Melissa from Sanyu similar to Rachael in real life?
Not at all. “In the beginning, I was not very receptive to my character because I am somewhat conservative and didn’t agree with her behavior,” she admits. However, she grew to love Melissa’s boldness and strong-willed nature.
Has she faced criticism for her roles?
Yes, but she takes it in stride. “I have received comments from people who do not appreciate my screen character’s behavior, but most find the tantrums interesting and appreciate my execution of the role.”
Which role has been her favorite so far?
“Definitely Melissa,” she says. “Her character has challenged me as an actress and pushed me out of my comfort zone.” She credits the Sanyu team for helping her grow as an actress.
Challenges and Inspirations
What challenges has she faced in the Ugandan film industry?
Early in her career, she struggled with low compensation and limited roles for teenagers. “Most casting calls wanted young fresh talent—aged eight to 15. From 16 onwards, there was less hope for me,” she explains. She also lacked exposure since her parents limited her social media use.
Who inspires her?
She is inspired by how audiences connect with her work. “Knowing that the stories I tell through various characters speak to an audience greater than myself is inspiring.”
Personal Life
What is something surprising about Rachael?
“I think the most surprising thing about me is that I am an introvert,” she reveals, despite playing bold characters on screen.
How does she spend her free time?
She enjoys reading novels, listening to music, and watching movies.
Is Rachael Nduhukire in a relationship?
Yes, she has confirmed that she is currently in a relationship.
Future Aspirations
What are her goals for the future?
She hopes to feature in more national and international projects. She also wants to create opportunities for young Ugandan creatives. “I hope to pave the way for fellow youth trying to penetrate the growing film industry,” she says.
