OLIVE NAMUTEBI ; ACCOUNTANT TURNED HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVIST

Olive Namutebi's journey from her early childhood in Kyanja village, Kampala - Uganda to becoming the Executive Director of Albinism Umbrella is a true definition of rising above societal expectations. Raised by a single mother, Olive faced financial challenges that shaped her modest upbringing. However, it was the huddles of being a misfit in society that left a lasting impact on her. Her academic journey presented its own set of difficulties, with insults and songs echoing in the air as she battled for acceptance. The cloud of discrimination and misunderstanding followed her wherever she went. Despite seeking refuge in the school environment, her poor eyesight posed an additional challenge, forcing her to rely on others to read the blackboard. It wasn't until she found a true friend who supported and helped her that she began to experience a more positive side of life.

Her professional journey began as a branch accountant at World Vision Microfinance (now Vision Fund) before she joined the Uganda Society for Disabled Children (USDC) as an Internal Auditor. It was during her time at USDC that the seed of giving back to her community was planted. Her achievements inspired her to create a positive impact on the lives of persons with albinism in a bid to expose them to opportunities to ensure their success as well. Her career continued to flourish as she moved to Chevron Uganda (Caltex) and later to Post Bank Uganda, where she held various positions, including Manager for Business Development and Strategic Planning, Manager Internal Audit, and Risk Manager. However, it was in 2016 that Olive decided to step down from the corporate world to fulfill her calling. Albinism Umbrella was officially founded in February 2017, with the goal of promoting and protecting the interests of people living with albinism at its heart.

Albinism Umbrella, under Olive's leadership, has become a haven for persons with albinism in Uganda. The organization addresses challenges that persons with albinism face, challenges such as low vision, sun damage, discrimination, and ignorance. Additionally, the organization's commitment to social accountability is evident in its collaboration with communities to create awareness and dispel myths surrounding albinism. Olive, an accountant turned executive director, now a human rights defender perpetually reiterates her vision at any given time - a world where all persons with albinism live dignified lives and fulfill their potential as is reflected in Albinism Umbrella's initiatives. The organization has already supported the first person with albinism to be employed by the Parliament of Uganda, a significant milestone in breaking down societal barriers.

In her quest to end stigma and discrimination, Olive pushes for the importance of understanding albinism, debunking myths and misconceptions around albinism, knowing the truth, and passing it on. Olive Namutebi's story is one of triumph over adversity, a journey from a childhood marked by societal misfitting to becoming a successful accountant and actualizing her dream by championing for the rights and dignity of people with albinism. As the founder and Director of Albinism Umbrella, Olive continues to pave the way for a more inclusive and understanding society, one where every person, regardless of their condition, can live a life of dignity and fulfillment.