On Saturday, 29 November 2025, the second annual UK–Ugandan Diaspora Community Champions Awards (UK-UG DCCA) was successfully held at Oasis Banqueting in Barking, London. Organised by Team Papajasper CIC in partnership with key diaspora organisations, the event celebrated and honoured the outstanding contributions of individuals, groups, and organisations within the UK-Ugandan community.
Purpose & Significance
The awards programme was founded to recognise excellence in leadership, service, and innovation, while actively promoting unity and inclusivity across the diverse UK-Ugandan diaspora. With the community estimated to exceed 202,000 people, the ceremony serves as a vital platform to highlight its growing engagement in the UK’s social, economic, and political landscape.
Awards Process
Nominations were gathered publicly through multiple channels, including social media and the official website. A committee shortlisted candidates, and the final winners in each category were selected through a combination of public voting and final committee selection, ensuring a transparent and inclusive process.
Event Highlights
The prestigious ceremony attracted over 350 guests, including the Mayor of Barking and Dagenham, Cllr Princess Bright, and the Deputy Ambassador of Uganda to the UK, Mr Phillip Rukikaire. The evening featured authentic Ugandan cuisine and was themed “Recognising Excellence, Achievement, and Dedication to Community Service.”
A total of 19 awards were presented, including a Lifetime Honorary Award, Lifetime Achievement Awards, and category-specific honours such as Volunteer of the Year, Youth Achiever, Community Leader, and Global Impact Award. Additionally, 72 Certificates of Recognition were issued to all runners-up. The event also spotlighted key charitable initiatives, including the Charlie Mugga Teenage Cancer Initiative.
Community Impact & Support
Post-event feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with widespread appreciation for the boost in community morale, visibility, and unity. The ceremony was made possible through a grant and the support of multiple sponsors, alongside the dedicated efforts of a volunteer organising committee who travelled from across the UK.
Conclusion
The 2025 UK-UG DCCA successfully fulfilled its core mission of celebrating diaspora champions, strengthening communal bonds, and inspiring future collaboration. It has firmly established itself as a significant annual event within the diaspora calendar, building a strong foundation for the community’s continued growth and influence.