A Night of Elegance, Culture, and Celebration — UG@63 Gala Dinner Shines in Melbourne

The UG@63 Gala Dinner, held on Saturday, 11th October 2025, was nothing short of magnificent, a sold-out celebration that brought together the vibrant Ugandan community and friends from across Victoria for a night of culture, cuisine, and connection.

From the moment guests stepped into the beautifully decorated venue, there was an unmistakable sense of pride, unity, and joy. The rich colours of Uganda, the aroma of traditional cuisine, and the rhythm of African music filled the air, setting the tone for an evening that celebrated not just 63 years of Uganda’s independence, but the power of community and togetherness.

A Feast to Remember

The evening’s culinary journey was a highlight on its own — an exquisite spread curated by Afro Pearls Victoria, showcasing the warmth and flavour of Ugandan and African cuisine. From hearty matooke and aromatic stews to modern Afro-fusion delicacies, every plate told a story of heritage and hospitality.

Complemented by a stunning centrepiece cake crafted by Erina Katumba, guests toasted to Uganda’s 63 years of independence with style, flavour, and laughter.

Culture in Motion, The Spirit of Uganda

If the food warmed the soul, the performances electrified the night. The stage came alive with the rhythmic beats of Acholi Dancers (Agora West), the elegance of Pearl Afrikulture Rhythms, the angelic voices of the children’s choir trained by Mary Lubega and the boundless energy of Zagar Zaga Obimba.

Their captivating dances transported guests to the heart of Uganda — reminding everyone that culture is the rhythm that binds us together. The cheers, ululations, and dancing feet in the audience said it all: this was a night to remember.

Behind the scenes, DJ Sam Karuri kept the beats flowing late into the night, while Tope Adesina’s photography captured every golden moment, from laughter and hugs to the swirl of colourful attire and dancing lights.

Honouring Excellence and Leadership

The gala also shone a spotlight on community heroes whose dedication continues to uplift and inspire.

Olivia Ssemaganda, Norman Katende, and Coach Habib Atib were celebrated for their remarkable contributions, receiving the prestigious Dr. Apollo Leadership Award and Community Contribution Awards. Their stories reflect the heartbeat of the Ugandan community in Victoria, grounded in service, leadership, and love for humanity.

Distinguished Guests and Dignitaries

Adding to the evening’s grandeur was an esteemed lineup of dignitaries and leaders from across Victoria’s multicultural landscape. The community was deeply honoured to host:

• Hon. Trung Luu MP (Western Metropolitan, Victoria)
• Hon. Richard Welch MP (North-Eastern Metropolitan, Victoria)
• Mr. Kashif Bouns, Director, Victorian Multicultural Commission
• Ms. Akinbiyi Abiola, Chairperson, ECCV
• Cr. Kim Truong, representing the mayor of Brimbank City Council
• Mr. Nuradin Omar, CEO, MasterRemit
• Mr. Hashim Omar, CFO, MasterRemit
• Ms. Melody Magengezha, Brand Ambassador, Diaspora Insurance
• Ms. Tongun Poni, Secretary, African Music and Cultural Festival
• Ms. Sarah Chong, Director, Femme Solidarity
• Ms. Catherine Jonathan, Founder, Emerging Brand Africa
• Mr. Qi (Quiniso) Dube, President, Africa Day Australia
• Mr. David Kamande, Kenya Community in Victoria
• Ms. Chikumbi Chifuntwe, President, Zambian Community in Victoria
• Ms. Tafadzwa Kamhara, President, Zambabwean Community in Victoria
• Mr. Jean Marie, Vice President, Burundi Community in Victoria
• Ms. Theresa Sengaaga Ssali, African Women’s and Families Network

Their presence underscored the strong partnerships and solidarity across communities that make Victoria’s multicultural fabric so extraordinary.

A Sold-Out Success — The Spirit of Ubuntu Lives On

Every seat was filled, every table alive with laughter and conversation — proof that the Ugandan spirit thrives in Melbourne. The sold-out gala was not only a success in numbers but in heart, connection, and celebration.

The UG@63 Gala Dinner was made possible through the support of generous sponsors Brimbank City Council, Department of Premier and Cabinet, MasterRemit, and Diaspora Insurance — whose partnership continues to strengthen community engagement and cultural pride.

A heartfelt thank you also goes to the event host Ronnie Kakaire, the decoration and set-up teams led by Moreen Pakwan, and every volunteer who stayed back late to ensure the night ended as beautifully as it began.

Pride, Unity, and Celebration

The UG@63 Gala Dinner was more than an event, it was a living, dancing, delicious expression of Uganda’s story in Victoria. A night where generations connected, friendships flourished, and culture was celebrated with elegance and joy.

As the lights dimmed and the music faded, one thing was clear:
the Ugandan community in Victoria stands strong, proud, united, and vibrant.