Who is Kakuru Dick?
My name is Kakuru Dick. I was born on March 16, 1999, and I am 25. I was born and raised in Kamwezi Sub-county in southwestern Uganda. I lost my dad when I was in my second year of primary school, and after that, I started staying with my grandmother. I was born a twin, and we often moved between my grandmother’s place and my grandfather’s home. I have a sister and grew up in a very humble family. However, that didn’t stop me from discovering my talents and skills. I studied in government schools until high school, where I attended Kamosa School.
How did Kakuru Dick discover his talent in pageantry?
I discovered my talent for leadership early on, though I hadn’t heard of pageantry at the time. In secondary school, I was passionate about leadership. During my A-levels, I was the chairperson of the school council at Kamwezi High School. Over time, I developed my leadership skills further, and during my vacation, I got a job as a museum guide at the Great Lakes Museum in Kabale, where I was the head guide.
In 2022, I heard about Miss Tourism for the first time. Curious, I filled out the application form when they announced they were now including a Mr. Tourism category. I became the first-ever Mr. Tourism for Kabale in 2022-2023. Competing against other boys, I won the pageant, and that marked the beginning of my journey in pageantry.
After my win, people started reaching out to me. The following year, I was allowed to train other young men in the pageant. My pageantry journey continued into 2024 when I heard they were looking for contestants for the first-ever Mr. Uganda competition. Although I initially doubted myself, seeing contestants with six-pack physiques and bodybuilding experience, I decided to give it a try. To my surprise, I became the 1st runner-up in the Mr. Uganda competition.
Where did you work before becoming Mr. Uganda 1st Runner-Up 2024?
Before joining pageantry, I worked at the Great Lakes Museum as the Head Guide or Curator, guiding visitors and sharing the museum’s history and exhibits. I started working there during my school vacation and continued even after joining the university. I recently left the museum this year. So, that’s what I used to do—guiding and curating at the Great Lakes Museum. As for my hobbies, I’m passionate about adventure. I love anything that involves traveling and driving, especially defensive driving. I truly enjoy being on the road. I also love football and sports in general, but adventure travel is my main interest.
Which was the toughest moment for Kakuru Dick?
One of my toughest moments was losing my dad at a young age, which was incredibly hard. Another difficult experience was when I saved up 10 million Ugandan shillings to apply for a Canadian visa, only to be rejected. I was devastated; I had even told my friends I was going, left my job, and felt so sure it would work out. This happened just this year, and it left me feeling like everything was falling apart.
Where did Kakuru Dick attain his education?
For my education, I started at Nikuna Primary School in Munga. For the O-level, I attended several schools, including Giants and Brainstorm High School, and for the A-level, I went to Kamwezi High School. I then joined Kabale University, where I was pursuing a Bachelor’s in Tourism and Hospitality. Unfortunately, I haven’t completed my degree yet. When I started the Canada application, I decided to pause my tuition payments, thinking I’d resume my studies after the trip, but it didn’t work out as planned.
What is your biggest achievement?
My biggest achievement, I believe, is surviving each day and taking on new opportunities. I’m always willing to try new things, especially if it means making money. I’ve been a pioneer in several areas, including pageantry—being the first Mr. Tourism for my region and the 1st Mr. Uganda runner-up. I always keep trying new paths and pushing forward.
Being the 1st runner-up for Mr. Uganda is truly amazing. I love the platform, as it has exposed me to new opportunities. This is why I love pageantry—it’s more than just showcasing beauty; it connects you with people from all walks of life. I’ve had the chance to meet influential people and leaders. So if I ever need assistance, I believe I have a network of people who know me and would be willing to help. Through pageantry, I’ve met ministers and even the Speaker, which I believe will shape my future.
What else should we know about Kakuru Dick?
Pageantry also encourages me to maintain a positive image and avoid things that might harm my reputation. It keeps me focused on being a respectable, “elite” individual. As for myself, I’m a hardworking person currently living in Kampala, in the Entebbe area. I work as an Uber driver around Kampala and also handle tours and travel. I frequently get clients from abroad who want to explore western Uganda, and I serve as their head guide and driver. I’m dedicated and will keep pushing until I make it big.
