In the rural village of Ssanje in Kyotera District, Benjamin Kamanzi grew up watching his parents work tirelessly to support their family. His mother travelled from market to market selling second hand clothes, while his father spent long days tending to their farm. Together they struggled to provide for their four children, but opportunities were limited and the future often felt uncertain.

Amid these challenges, Benjamin discovered an early passion for music and dance. He had heard of students earning bursaries because of their talent in the performing arts, and he began to dream of developing his own abilities to a level that could help him continue his education. Yet he lacked a structured environment where his talent could truly grow.

That opportunity came in 2015 when Benjamin joined Rockies Organization. There, he found what he had been searching for – a supportive community that believed in his potential, where his passion for music and performance was matched with structured training and mentorship. Through dedication and hard work, he quickly became an active member of the Bantu Cultural Troupe.

Rockies sponsored Benjamin’s education from Senior One through Senior Six, ensuring that he could remain in school while continuing to develop his artistic skills. At the same time, he received practical training that extended far beyond performance. Through the organization, he developed leadership skills, public speaking confidence, and a strong sense of discipline. He was also exposed to practical life skills such as driving, shoe-making and book production among others. These experiences helped shape him into a well-rounded young professional.

“Rockies taught us that talent alone is not enough,” Benjamin reflects. “It requires discipline, teamwork, and the right values to turn talent into something meaningful.”

One of the defining moments of his time with the troupe came in 2017 when he travelled to India for a performance. The experience proved to be more than a performance opportunity. It opened his eyes to the possibilities that exist when talent is nurtured and shared across cultures. It was proof that the arts could open doors beyond his imagination.

By the time he completed his studies and eventually transitioned from the organization in 2020, Benjamin had developed not only his artistic abilities but also a deeper understanding of how creative groups operate. Observing how Rockies managed performances, training, and programs gave him practical insights into running an arts company.

Motivated by this experience, Benjamin went on to establish his own music group, Eco Band. Alongside managing the band, he works as a music trainer and mentor, sharing his knowledge with aspiring artists across Uganda and beyond. His work has taken him across the region, training musicians in countries such as Tanzania, Rwanda, and South Sudan.

Benjamin’s journey illustrates how investing in young people’s talents can create a ripple effect that extends far beyond one individual. The education, mentorship, discipline, and opportunities he received at Rockies continue to influence the artists he now trains across East Africa – ensuring that the impact of that support reaches a new generation of performers.