Alumni Spotlight

Joseph Montenegro Watema: Rooted in Diversity, Expressing Purpose Through Art and Education

Joseph Montenegro Watema joined Vienna College Namugongo in 2012 for his Year 12 studies, before later completing his high school education in Mauritius. Known simply as “Montenegro” by most of his peers, he quickly made an impression during his first term at Vienna; so much so that, despite being a new student, he was encouraged to stand for leadership and was elected Speaker of the School Senate.

That moment remains one of his most vivid memories of Vienna. “I was surprised by how welcoming the environment was,” he recalls, particularly the encouragement he received from Mr. Kakiika, who urged him to believe in his ability to lead even as a newcomer. That early vote of confidence left a lasting mark.

Joseph describes himself as a multi-faceted individual, shaped by creativity, purpose, and curiosity. A proud Ugandan and Musoga, he is deeply rooted in music, education, and entrepreneurship. Music, in particular, is inseparable from his identity. Performing under the stage name Kezerod, Joseph released his first solo music project earlier this year; a milestone that marked a new chapter in his artistic journey after years of collaborative work.

Beyond music, Joseph is passionate about education and youth development. He is the founder of Remolders, an education-focused initiative that equips teenagers and young adults with skills in entrepreneurship, emotional intelligence, and cultural influence. “I want to spend myself fully,” he says. “I want to die empty; having given everything I have to offer.”

His time at Vienna was defined not only by leadership and academics, but by community. Some of his fondest memories are the quiet moments after class;students gathered around the dormitories, sharing stories and cultures. Fluent in several languages, including French, Joseph enjoyed connecting with classmates from Burundi, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. “That diversity was special,” he reflects. “Just hanging out, talking, laughing; that was my favourite time.”

Family also played an important role in his Vienna experience. His cousin, Philip Sozi, served as Head Prefect during Joseph’s time at the school, and watching him grow into leadership deeply influenced Joseph. He also credits Madame Mirian and Mr. Emmanuel Amuno for their encouragement and guidance.

Joseph speaks candidly about being neurodivergent and living with high-functioning autism. While social interactions were sometimes challenging, he found Vienna to be more accepting than many other environments he had experienced. “Some of the things I thought would be obstacles were actually embraced,” he says. “That made a huge difference.”

One of Joseph’s proudest achievements to date is performing at the Fifty Lab Festival in Brussels, Belgium, a major milestone accomplished within the first year of his solo music career. “It felt like a dream,” he says. “And it’s only the beginning.”

At the core of his motivation is a deep sense of purpose and service. Joseph believes his life is not solely his own, but something to be poured into others. He strives to be remembered as a positive force; versatile, encouraging, and committed to helping people realise their full potential.

To current Vienna students, his advice is simple but profound: savor every moment. “Time moves so fast,” he says. “Pause, take it all in, and use the resources around you. School is more than academics; it’s about growth, balance, and discovering who you are.”

Looking back, Joseph says he would tell his younger self to mask less, embrace his individuality, and pursue subjects aligned with his creative instincts. Above all, he hopes his journey reflects the values Vienna instilled in him; openness, diversity, and the courage to become fully oneself.