At just 36 years old, Flavia Tumusiime’s journey from hosting the beloved “Teens Club” on WBS TV to being named Head of Broadcast at Nation Media Group (NMG) Uganda is nothing short of inspirational. It is a story of relentless ambition, talent, and the courage to chart a path less traveled in a competitive industry.
A Humble Beginning on Teens Club
Flavia’s media career began in a setting many young Ugandans could relate to—a vibrant, youth-focused show that spoke to the dreams and challenges of teenagers. As a presenter on the “Teens Club,” she captivated audiences with her charm, authenticity, and an infectious passion for storytelling. This early exposure not only honed her on-air presence but also instilled in her a deep understanding of the power of media to influence and inspire.
Climbing the Rungs of Media Excellence
Flavia’s trajectory soon led her to NTV Uganda, where she transitioned from her role as a presenter to that of a trusted news anchor. Her time at NTV, coupled with her stint at Capital FM and ventures into private business, equipped her with a diverse skill set and a comprehensive view of the media landscape. Despite being seen by some as inexperienced for high-level managerial roles, her relentless drive and enterprising spirit shone through every challenge she faced.
A Bold Appointment Amidst Skepticism
Last month, in a decision that surprised many within NMG, the board appointed Tumusiime as Head of Broadcast. Her selection was notable—not only because she edged out several senior and seasoned managers, but also because it signaled a shift in perspective at a time when the company scrapped the traditional General Manager role in favor of a leadership model tailored for modern broadcast dynamics.
Taking over from Johnson Omollo, who had departed earlier this year, Flavia now shoulders the immense responsibility of overseeing operations across major channels, including NTV Uganda, Spark TV, Dembe FM, and KFM. With over 100 employees under her leadership, her role is pivotal in shaping the future of one of Uganda’s leading media houses.
Breaking New Ground in a Traditional Industry
In a media landscape often dominated by established figures, Tumusiime’s rise is both a breath of fresh air and a testament to the evolving nature of leadership in Uganda’s media industry. Following in the footsteps of Agnes Konde—a trailblazer who held the position between 2013 and 2017—Flavia is expected to bring innovation, dynamism, and a new perspective to her role.
Balancing Professional and Personal Lives
Behind the scenes, Flavia’s personal life is as intriguing as her professional journey. Married to Andrew Kabuura, the head of sports broadcast at rival Next Media, her life reflects a unique blend of professional rivalry and personal harmony. Their relationship, set against the backdrop of Uganda’s competitive media industry, adds an interesting layer to her narrative of success.
The Road Ahead
As Flavia Tumusiime embarks on this new chapter, her appointment is not just a personal triumph but also a beacon for young professionals in Uganda. It underscores the message that with dedication, hard work, and a willingness to innovate, age and initial perceptions can be transcended. In a rapidly evolving media environment, Tumusiime’s journey from a teenager’s favorite host to the helm of one of the country’s leading media organizations is an inspiring reminder that the future belongs to those who dare to dream big.
Flavia’s story is a powerful narrative of breaking barriers, redefining leadership, and the enduring belief that every journey, no matter how humble its beginnings, can lead to monumental success.
