Gender: Female

Talent Areas: Traditional Dance

Family Background

Sumayiya was born in Kitatya Village, Kayunga District in the Central Region. She is the second-born in a family of ten children. Her parents are peasants, relying on subsistence farming and the sale of excess produce to survive.

Due to limited income, Sumayiya often missed school because of unpaid fees. Hoping to ease the burden on her parents, she joined a local dance troupe that promised to pay for her education and provide basic support such as health care, accommodation and feeding. Unfortunately, the troupe also struggled financially and was unable to keep their promise.

Recognizing that her future was at risk, Sumayiya’s family called her back home. It was around this time that Rockies Organization began scouting for talented yet disadvantaged youth - and Sumayiya was ready.

How Rockies Organization Stepped In

In 2024, Sumayiya was admitted into Rockies Organization, offering her a new path to continue her education and talent development. She was enrolled at St. Andrew’s College, Ssanda, and is currently (2025) in Senior One. Under Rockies’ mentorship, she continues to learn more dances and build her confidence on and off stage.

Talent, Uniqueness & Achievements

Sumayiya is a gifted dancer with exceptional versatility. Her repertoire spans Uganda’s diverse cultural regions, including Bakisimba, Nankasa and Muwogola dances from the Central Region; Tamenha Ibuga, Nalufuka, Irongo, Kadodi and Samia from the Eastern region; Ekitaguriro, Ekizino and Runyege-Ntogoro from Western Uganda; and Larakaraka from Northern Uganda.

Aspirations

Sumayiya dreams of becoming a lawyer. She hopes to use her education and voice to represent those who cannot afford legal support. Her journey with Rockies is not just about performance. It is also about finding her power, fulfilling her potential and using it to uplift others.