Growing up in a large family of eight children, Lawrence Matovu understood early that building a future would require both determination and opportunity. His father, a farmer, and his mother, a midwife, struggled to provide for their large family, making access to quality education difficult. Like many young people from humble backgrounds, Lawrence carried both a sense of responsibility toward his family and the hope that his talents could one day open new possibilities.

In December 2013, an opportunity emerged when Lawrence joined Rockies Organization as one of the early members who would later help shape the Bantu Cultural Troupe. What he found there was more than a performing group. Rockies became a community where young people were mentored to develop both their talents and their character.

Through the organization, Lawrence received hands-on training in several practical skills including fashion and design, paver making, shoe making, and book production. These skills were intentionally designed to ensure that members could build sustainable livelihoods alongside their artistic careers.

At the same time, Rockies nurtured his natural passion for music and dance. Through structured training and mentorship from experienced instructors, Lawrence quickly grew into a confident and skilled performer. The exposure he received through performances and professional training helped him build both confidence and discipline.

“Rockies gave us the opportunity to learn from some of the best trainers,” Lawrence recalls. “They didn’t just train us to perform – they shared their life experiences and guided us on how to navigate the challenges young people face.”

The organization also invested deeply in shaping the character of its members. Lawrence and his fellow performers were mentored in discipline, time management, leadership, and faith. Over time, the Rockies community became more than a training environment – it became a second home where young people were guided toward responsible and purposeful lives.

Through the troupe, Lawrence gained exposure to wider networks and opportunities. Rockies connected members to conferences, youth camps, and empowerment programs, where they interacted with other young leaders and organizations working to empower youth.

In 2019, Lawrence’s dedication and growing professionalism opened the door to a major opportunity when he secured a performance contract in Taiwan. With the support of Rockies, he obtained his first passport, enabling him to travel and begin buildin an international career in the performing arts. Even while abroad, the mentorship he had received continued to guide him, with leaders from the organization remaining in touch and offering advice as he navigated new environments and professional challenges.

Today, Lawrence continues to pursue his artistic career internationally and is currently in China doing what he does best – performing. Wherever he works, the training he received at Rockies remains evident. Audiences and collaborators often notice the discipline, professionalism, and work ethic that distinguish him and other performers who have come through the organization.

Lawrence’s journey with Rockies has created opportunities that reach beyond his own career. His progress has helped open doors for members of his extended family, some of whom are now benefiting from mentorship and support through the organization.

Looking back, he sees his career as a powerful reminder of how mentorship, discipline, and opportunity can transform talent into a lasting career. From a young performer in a farming family to an artist building an international path, his story reflects the far-reaching impact of investing in young people’s talents.