By Background
Ronnie Mayanja is a seasoned media strategist, community organizer, and passionate advocate dedicated to elevating Ugandan voices and success stories on the international stage. As the founder of the Uganda Diaspora Network, he has spent over two decades strengthening connections between Ugandans abroad and their homeland, fostering opportunities for business, investment, and positive social impact.
Through the annual Uganda Diaspora Homecoming Social Networking Gala and Business Breakfast, now in its 14th year, Ronnie has established a vibrant platform celebrating global Ugandan excellence. The initiative, under the distinguished patronage of Dr. Maggie Kigozi, former founding Executive Director of the Uganda Investment Authority, highlights the influential stature and caliber of the individuals involved.
Ronnie’s influence extends well beyond event organization. He created the Ugandan Diaspora News Portal, a widely-read online platform that reached audiences in over 100 countries at its peak. Before taking a strategic sabbatical for reorganization over three years ago, this portal served as an essential digital hub for Ugandans and friends of Uganda, highlighting inspiring stories, community achievements, and global Ugandan news.
Committed to establishing a lasting legacy, Ronnie registered the Uganda Diaspora Network Inc. as a nonprofit in Massachusetts, USA, to amplify his mission of uplifting Ugandan communities, especially within the New England region. In 2010, he successfully launched the inaugural New England Business Expo & Investment Summit in Boston, facilitating connections between Ugandan and North American investors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders. Subsequent editions were held in 2018, 2019, 2022, and 2023, with the event returning to Boston this Columbus Day weekend in October as the New England Business Expo & Independence Festival.
Leadership
Ronnie’s commitment and visionary leadership have significantly impacted Uganda’s diaspora affairs. He previously served two influential terms on the Uganda North American Association (UNAA) Board of Directors, playing a pivotal role in policy development and fostering unity among Ugandans across North America. He contributed to key reforms and was instrumental in establishing the UNAA constitutional review commission, which led to the creation of the UNAA Board of Trustees and the UNAA Council.
Additionally, Ronnie’s role on the East African Chamber of Commerce (EACC) Board in Dallas, Texas, enhanced regional trade initiatives. He guided the EACC’s media campaign strategies through collaborations with Voice of America, fostering synergy with other chambers across the USA.
His extensive experience in event organization includes launching landmark conventions such as the Uganda Canadian Business Expo & Convention in Vancouver (2012) and Toronto (2018-2019). These conventions have since expanded to Ottawa and Kampala, providing dynamic platforms for networking, trade, and investment. Ronnie also facilitated high-level visits to Canada by prominent Ugandan leaders such as former Vice President Hon. Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi and former Speaker Hon. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga. Furthermore, he organized Afrigo Band’s maiden Canadian tour, with performances in Edmonton and Toronto. His continued involvement with multiple African diaspora community boards underscores his profound commitment to community engagement.
Media and Communications Expert
With an extensive background in journalism and broadcasting, Ronnie has made a lasting imprint on Uganda’s media landscape. His distinguished career includes roles such as Station Manager at WBS Television, radio DJ at Kampala’s Capital FM, and Assignment Editor at CNN International Desk in Atlanta. Ronnie was instrumental in Uganda’s prominent 2011 and 2016 election broadcasts, consulting for leading TV networks NTV and NBS. He also co-pioneered NBS’s renowned current affairs show, Frontline, collaborating with noted journalist Charles Odongtho.
Outside traditional journalism, Ronnie has supported prominent Ugandan figures like Coach Robert Katende and Phiona Mutesi (The Queen of Katwe), coordinating their speaking engagements in North America and highlighting Uganda’s inspiring narratives globally.
Blogger and Content Creator
Beyond his media consulting role, Ronnie is an influential blogger and digital content creator who uses his platforms to showcase remarkable Ugandan stories. His blogs and multimedia projects feature inspiring individuals, groundbreaking innovations, and insightful narratives from Uganda and its diaspora. His compelling storytelling approach and authentic engagement have cultivated a loyal global following, enhancing awareness and connection across continents.
Education and Professional Life
A proud alumnus of Kings College Budo, Ronnie holds a Bachelor’s degree from Makerere University and a Master’s in Broadcast Journalism from Boston University’s College of Communication. He previously contributed his expertise to a leading global communications and technology firm for a decade, specializing in innovative storytelling and strategic communications.
At heart, Ronnie Mayanja remains deeply Ugandan, driven by authenticity, resilience, consistency, and integrity. His lifelong mission is clear: connecting, celebrating, and empowering Uganda’s diaspora to thrive globally.
