My names, Birungi (which means "good") and Ndwadde (which means "I am sick") used to puzzle me. No one can tell me why our Jajja (Grandmother) named me this way. Engaging in art has given me confidence to make sense of my name and my identities as a British Ugandan woman with a disability. It is through the periods of sickness (depression and anxiety, brain fog, intense pain in my neck, back and jaw and teeth grinding) that I have had reorient my life to become well (good).
Being unwell and forcing myself to work (internalised ableism) and former employers claiming their bullying and harassment during sick leave was legal (corporate ableism) forced me to face the truth. I had become accountable listen to my needs and speak up. In turn, I have been supported by wonderful people, artists and art organisations who helped me to tell my story through my artwork. Art is the catalyst that has given me the strength to show up as my whole self, wherever I am.
Art is expression and we are all better humans when we allow people to feel safe and express themselves as they are. Authenticity is the basis for creation, connection and leadership.
Contact me to learn how I can help your team connect.
