natukunda fortunate

Natukunda Fortunate, a 31-year-old Ugandan social worker, filmmaker, actress, poet, and screenwriter. My life’s work is rooted in advocacy, empowerment, and storytelling whether I’m leading grassroots initiatives or crafting narratives on screen.

As the Co-founder and Executive Director of Margaret & Emma Organization since September 2018, I’ve dedicated myself to uplifting Ugandan women, especially those in rural communities. I’ve trained over 500 women in income-generating skills like crafts, baking, tailoring, and catering helping them build sustainable livelihoods and break cycles of poverty. My passion for social justice and community development is the foundation of everything I do.

My academic background in Social Work and Social Administration has equipped me to lead with empathy and strategy. I graduated with a First Class Honors Bachelor’s Degree from Uganda Christian University, where I’m currently pursuing my Master’s degree in the same field.

Over the years, I’ve held various roles that reflect my commitment to social transformation:

• Executive Director, Margaret & Emma Organization (September 2018 – Present) Spearheading programs that empower women through vocational training, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship.
• Founder & CEO, Fortunate Inspirations-SMC LTD (November 2023 – Present) Using film and art to ignite inspiration and address critical social issues.
• Monitoring & Evaluation Officer, Kick Corruption Out of Uganda (November 2019 – May 2020) Developed a comprehensive M&E framework and strategic plan for a five-year period.
• Project Coordinator, Green Environment Promotion (July 2015 – December 2017) Worked with HIV-positive mothers and women’s groups to improve livelihoods and promote saving culture.
• Office Administrator, Green Environment Promotion (December 2013 – July 2015) Supported organizational operations and community outreach initiatives.

As a creative, I channel my advocacy into storytelling. I write, direct, produce, and act in films that explore mental health, resilience, and identity. Some of my notable projects include:

• Fractured Minds (2024) – A short film I wrote, directed, and starred in, focusing on schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Screened at the Kaduna International Film Festival (Nigeria) and reached the semi-finals at the Serbest International Film Festival (Moldova).
• Echoes of Silence (2024) – A collaborative short film produced through Fortunate Inspirations, highlighting emotional resilience.
• Stalker (2024) – A suspenseful short film in post-production under Reel Impact Foundation, where I played the lead role.
• Unbroken (2025) – A documentary currently in development, spotlighting the resilience of people with disabilities in Kabale, Uganda.

I’ve also acted in More Grace (2023) and delivered emotionally resonant performances in Echoes of Silence, Fractured Minds, and Stalker.