Empowering Women Behind the Lens: Bako Daphne’s Journey at Mediavision Academy
In an industry historically dominated by men, the narrative is rapidly changing, and Mediavision Academy is at the forefront of this transformation. By equipping young women with hands-on, practical media skills, the institution is playing a pivotal role in women’s empowerment and driving true inclusiveness within Uganda’s vibrant creative economy.
A shining example of this impact is Bako Daphne, a passionate student currently pursuing a course in Elementary Photography at the academy.
Daphne’s journey into the world of professional media began with inspiration from an alumna of Mediavision Academy. After admiring the stunning photography from her own graduation photoshoot—shot by a female graduate of the academy—Daphne knew she had found her calling. Seeking to transition from a casual hobbyist to a certified professional, she chose Mediavision Academy to turn her passion into a viable career.
From the Classroom to the Field: A Hands-On Experience
For her end-of-course practical project, Daphne took her skills to the field, serving as the lead photographer for an outdoor sports day event for children at Kampala Junior Academy. Managing a crew of peers handling behind-the-scenes photography and videography, Daphne commanded the set with confidence.
Reflecting on her time on the field, Daphne highlighted one of the most empowering aspects of the shoot: working alongside and leading a mixed-gender crew.
“The thing that I’ve liked most is to see myself working with men during today’s outdoor shoot,” Daphne shares. “When you look at the people around, the way they see me as a lady on the camera working among these men—it’s a totally different thing. I grew up knowing that being a camera person, you have to be a man. But now, I’m a lady, and I’m inspiring those children who saw a woman taking their pictures.”
Building a Brand and Breaking Barriers
Daphne credits Mediavision Academy with transforming her into a hardworking, creative professional. Beyond the core photography curriculum, the collaborative environment allowed her to absorb additional skills in film and videography from her peers, expanding her creative toolkit at no extra cost. She also noted the invaluable social capital gained through networking, fieldwork, and building lasting industry connections.
“This world is so harsh to someone who is not skilled,” Daphne emphasizes. “At least a girl should have any hands-on skill that can save her anywhere. Nowadays, all of us aim at being employed. But when you have a skill in your head, on your hand, you can never go wrong.”
Today, Daphne no longer just sees herself as a student; she sees herself as a growing brand with portable capital—skills and a network that can never be taken away from her.
Championing Inclusiveness in Uganda’s Creative Economy
Stories like Daphne’s underscore Mediavision Academy’s unwavering commitment to gender inclusivity. By creating safe, supportive, and practical learning environments where women are encouraged to take up space behind the lens, the academy is actively dismantling stereotypes.
As Mediavision Academy continues to produce skilled female photographers, videographers, and filmmakers, it is not just transforming individual lives—it is reshaping the face of Uganda’s creative economy, proving that talent knows no gender.
Are you a woman or youth looking to break into the creative industry? Visit Mediavision Academy today and gain the hands-on skills you need to build a lasting brand and career.
Written by Nkambo Robert – Director/Founder of Mediavision Academy
