Stemming from a daily journaling practice where I write about my ideal future and present, so I can attempt to stop reenacting past trauma, I have created a Past, Present and Future self portrait triptych. By creating a visual representation of my writing practice, I hope to confront the initial source of trauma and depict my present and future selves healing and restoring my humanity.

In this visual autobiography, I am freeing myself from the ingrained belief that “I am not enough”. The process has cracked me open and I’m letting go of fear. Every day, I’m giving myself an opportunity to create my future. I need to make these works, so I can hold space for others to reimagine themselves. When we come together and support our dreams, we become powerful. Thank you Njabala Foundation for supporting this Ugandan woman to dream and work. A labour of deep love I'm eternally grateful for.

Materials and significance

I have chosen to work on a canvas of lubugo, traditionally used by the Ganda tribe as a shroud, a metaphor for the death of my past selves and toxic beliefs I am working to purge. Collaging with ebyaayi, a strong and versatile material, I get to further engage with culturally significant materials capable of transforming, when I was told by my Father that I didn’t understand my culture. Working with these materials, I am asserting my right to access and reinterpret my culture and develop my own voice, when I have felt silenced.