diaspora 10 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Jacqueline Tumusiime Fosters Unity Among Ugandan Diaspora in Canada Through NAUCA
Jacqueline Tumusiime, a founding member and board director of the National Alliance of Ugandan Canadian Associations (NAUCA), emphasizes that true leadership in diaspora communities stems from service and collaboration rather than personal visibility. She discusses the origins of NAUCA, its role in bridging gaps among Ugandan groups in Canada, and the upcoming 2026 inaugural convention in Vancouver. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/how-jacqueline-tumusiime-is-shaping-ugandan-diaspora-collaboration-in-canada-5418812
Jacqueline Tumusiime has dedicated years to community service, drawing from her upbringing where helping neighbors and participating in cultural events was a norm. This foundation guided her after moving to Canada, where she saw service as essential for replacing extended family networks.
Service evolved from occasional acts to a core commitment when she witnessed the power of organized efforts in resolving issues and creating opportunities. Through volunteering, Tumusiime learned that leadership demands humility, resilience, and a focus on collective outcomes over personal spotlight.
In 2023, alongside Board Chair Justus Mirembe and others, she helped form NAUCA in 2024 to address the lack of collaboration among Ugandan organizations across Canada. The alliance acts as a national umbrella, connecting groups, amplifying voices, and promoting shared goals like economic ties and cultural preservation.
Ugandan diaspora communities in Canada stand out for their resilience and vibrancy, organizing around events, professional networks, and youth programs despite challenges like long work hours and family support demands back home. NAUCA counters this with coordinated events, communication tools, and leadership forums.
A highlight is the inaugural NAUCA Business & Cultural Convention, set for October 9–11, 2026, in Vancouver under the theme ‘Building Prosperity Through Community Investments.’ Expect business networking, policy talks on health, immigration, and development, plus youth engagement beyond just performances.
Tumusiime views success as fostering participation, partnerships, and a roadmap for unity. She encourages young people to start small by volunteering locally and stresses that diaspora leaders must shape positive narratives about Uganda while building inclusive structures.
This story originated from Daily Monitor (Uganda).