Kampala, Uganda — Nalubega Aidah Bukenya, known on screen as Jalia or Nvanunji, is quickly becoming a familiar name in Uganda’s creative and entrepreneurial circles. After earning praise for her acting debut in the 2021 film Best Friend, Bukenya has since expanded her profile by launching ABC Cosmetix, proving that artistic talent and business acumen can go hand in hand.
Originally from Mpenja in Gomba District and born in Lubya, Bukenya’s career began in television, where she worked with three major Ugandan stations. Her transition to acting came in 2021, and her first film performance earned her notable attention, particularly for her role in the Aromatic Production title Best Friend.
Rather than focusing solely on acting, Bukenya chose to invest in the cosmetics industry — a personal passion she has turned into a professional pursuit.
She has taken breaks from filming to further her knowledge in skincare and cosmetics, earning qualifications and building her brand in Uganda’s growing beauty market. Her ability to balance two demanding professions has made her stand out in an industry where many artists are forced to choose one path.
For Bukenya, the decision to pursue both was a strategic one. “I wanted to create something of my own while continuing to perform,” she shared in a recent interview. “Acting gives me joy, and business gives me stability and the freedom to grow.”
Bukenya’s story reflects a broader movement among Ugandan entertainers who are leveraging their public platforms to explore business opportunities and build sustainable careers. As both an actress and entrepreneur, she embodies the resilience and innovation that define Uganda’s evolving cultural and economic landscape.
With future film projects reportedly in the works and ABC Cosmetix continuing to grow, Nalubega Aidah Bukenya represents a new generation of Ugandan talent — dynamic, determined, and unapologetically herself.
