Alumni Spotlight

Mago’s Mission: From a Classroom Question to a Life of Purpose

“Everywhere you turn, you’ll find someone from Vienna.” Mago responding to the trending question: “Baliwa? Where are the people from Vienna?” Her answer is as grounded as it is inspiring. 

From a shy student called to the front of Mr. Kakika’s class to a public speaker, mentor,epilepsy ambassador and founder of the Purple Bench Initiative, Mago’s journey is a powerful reminder of what courage, purpose, and community can grow into.

Becoming Mago: Identity Through Advocacy

When asked to describe herself, Mago doesn't begin with titles she begins with why.

“I’m the founder of the Purple Bench Initiative, an advocate, trainer, mentor, creative and someone who lives with epilepsy.”

Founded in 2018, the Purple Bench Initiative was born out of a deeply personal need: to live an authentic life. After years of hiding parts of herself to avoid stigma, Mago chose vulnerability and in doing so, unlocked a path to advocacy.

“I realized I wasn't being myself and my life was plagued with fear. I was afraid people would discriminate against me when they found out I had epilepsy. But I needed to stop hiding and set myself free”

What began as a small circle of friends turned into something greater, a foundation that gives people living with epilepsy the tools, and opportunity to live dignified, meaningful and impactful lives in their communities.

The Vienna Spark

Though she spent a little over a year at Vienna College Namugongo, Mago calls it a turning point in her educational journey.

“I was an education nomad, always moving. But Vienna was a good space. I still remember Mr. Kakika calling me up to answer a question in class. I was terrified, but I realized I wasn’t afraid of people. I was just shocked to be called on after being so invisible. That moment helped shape me into the speaker I am today. It has also helped me make shy young people visible”

It wasn’t a warm-and-fuzzy memory but it was a defining one. And for Mago, that triggered growth.

From Epilepsy to Empowerment

After Vienna, Mago pursued a degree in Ethics and Development Studies at Uganda Martyrs University. It was during this time that she began to question how society responds to seizures and why there’s so much silence and misinformation around epilepsy.

One heartbreaking moment stands out. While working on a community project, she was told about a child with epilepsy who was locked in a chicken coop.

 “The family thought she would make the other children sick. She was pecked on by animals, sleeping outside in the cold. That moment stayed with me. No human being should ever be treated that way, more so for a condition they didn’t wake up and ask for”

From there, Mago worked with the Foundation for Sustainable Development, engaged in global exchange, and eventually asked herself a hard question:

“If I had a seizure today, would anyone around me know what to do? I realised the answer was a No and that scared me”

That question gave rise to The Purple Bench Initiative, now active in Masaka District, running support groups and spreading awareness through training and public engagement.

Unexpected Milestones

One of Mago’s proudest, most unexpected achievements? Not just founding an organization but being recognized for it.

“I never thought I’d be awarded for doing something that holds so much stigma. It still feels surreal because I thought the impact would be local”

It’s proof, she says, that purpose can flourish in even the most shadowed spaces if we dare to bring it into the light. If we dare to dream

Advice to the Next Generation

To current Vienna students preparing for life after school, Mago offers this:

“Turn your fears into motivation. The world is vast, and you’ll discover parts of yourself you didn’t know existed. Let those parts be the light to guide you.”

And to those who feel unseen or unsure?

“Allow yourself to grow. Don’t limit yourself based on fear or past rejection. The world needs your story and you have the capacity to make it an amazing one”

Her Circle, Her Strength

Mago credits her family and close friends as her primary support system. “They’ve walked with me, been curious about my work, and grown alongside me,” she says. That foundation of love, care and understanding has carried her through the highs and lows of advocacy work.

Shoutout to the Vienna Family

When asked if she had a message for fellow alumni, her answer is simple:

“Shout out to the whole lot, past and present. Wherever you are and whatever you're facing, know that you’re not alone.”

And with that, Mago reminds us that alumni aren’t just names on a list. They’re advocates, founders, visionaries, and quiet changemakers shaping the world in their own powerful ways.