In this interview with Brian Mugenyi, Queen Birungi Amber Grace discusses her message to learners at Bright Sparks Junior School, the dangers of drug abuse and peer pressure, her ambition to study law, and the influence of her mother, Dr Olive Enid Nabiryo.
Q: You recently addressed learners at Bright Sparks Junior School in Sseguku Katale. What was your message to them?
Birungi: My message was that young people should remain focused on their education and develop ambitions that can guide their future. I encouraged them to work hard, aspire to achieve good grades and believe in their ability to accomplish their goals. Education is important because it prepares us for the opportunities and responsibilities ahead.
Q: Why did you consider it important to speak about drug abuse and negative peer pressure?
Birungi: Young people face many influences as they grow up. Some of these influences can lead them away from their ambitions. Drug abuse and negative peer pressure can affect their education, health and future. I wanted the learners to understand that they must make responsible choices and avoid groups or behaviours that could derail their dreams.
Q: What would you say to a learner who is struggling to resist pressure from friends?
Birungi: I would encourage that learner to remain confident and remember what they want to achieve in life. Not every friendship or influence is good for your future. Young people should surround themselves with people who encourage them to study, develop their talents and make responsible decisions.
Q: Beyond education, you also spoke about environmental conservation and responsible citizenship. Why are these issues important to young people?
Birungi: Young people are part of society, and they have a responsibility to protect their communities and environment. We should learn to care for our surroundings, respect our families and contribute positively to society. These values help us become responsible citizens and future leaders.
Q: You are a student at Taibah Secondary School. How do you balance your education with your activities in entertainment and youth mentorship?
Birungi: Education must remain a priority. I believe that having talents and other interests should not mean neglecting school. Discipline and proper guidance are important in managing different responsibilities. I want to continue developing myself academically while using my platform to encourage other young people.
Q: You have expressed an ambition to study law at Harvard University. What motivates this dream?
Birungi: I want to become a voice for the voiceless and inspire young people to use education as a ladder to success. I believe education gives people knowledge, confidence and the ability to contribute to society. Studying law is part of my ambition to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
Q: You have described your mother, Dr Olive Enid Nabiryo, as your mentor. What has her guidance meant to you?
Birungi: My mother has played a very important role in my life. She has taught me discipline, humility and confidence. She encourages me to work hard, remain focused and believe in my abilities. My achievements are rooted in her guidance and prayers.
Q: You also participate in swimming competitions and youth mentorship initiatives. What do these activities mean to you?
Birungi: They give me opportunities to develop myself and interact with other young people. I believe young people should explore their talents and participate in constructive activities. Through mentorship, I want to encourage them to avoid drug abuse, negative peer pressure and behaviours that can affect their future.
Q: What role should parents play in helping children pursue their dreams?
Birungi: Parents have an important responsibility to guide, encourage and support their children. Every child has unique potential, and parents should take time to understand their children’s interests and ambitions. Talent needs proper guidance to grow and make a positive difference.
Q: Your mother describes you as disciplined, hardworking and passionate about excellence. How do you intend to use your public profile as you grow?
Birungi: I want to use my platform responsibly. I am interested in youth empowerment, environmental conservation, tourism and encouraging young people to value education. I want my activities to inspire others to believe in themselves and work towards positive goals.
Q: Finally, what is your message to learners who attended the Bright Sparks Junior School Prom Party?
Birungi: Remain focused, work hard and be ambitious. Take your education seriously, respect your parents and teachers, choose your friends wisely and avoid drug abuse. Do not allow negative influences to take you away from your dreams. Believe in your potential and work towards becoming responsible people who can make a difference in society.
The post Queen Birungi Amber: ‘Education is the ladder to achieving our dreams’ appeared first on Watchdog Uganda.