Unexpected harmony: Student and teacher take Mr & Miss Bukedde crowns

The stage at Wonder World in Kansanga, Kampala pulsed with energy on March 31, 2024, as the Miss and Mr Bukedde Season 3 competition reached its climax.

Out of  400 talented individuals, two shining stars emerged victorious.  However, the story of the night wasn't just about the dazzling performances. It was about the unexpected harmony between two winners; a shy teenager with a powerful voice and a jovial nursery teacher with electrifying dance moves, Miss Bukedde Praise Wisdom  and Mr Bukedde Mukisa Godfrey Ssemakula.

Songwriter and producer Joseph Batte, songwriter and poet John Kay, and singer George Lubega Timothy alias Exodus, were the judges.

Praise Wisdom: A melodious beauty

At just 15 years old, Praise Wisdom isn't your typical beauty queen. Yet, her story is one of unwavering passion and dedication. A student at St. Andrews Kaggwa Gombe High School, Wisdom's love for music blossomed early at a young age, she isn't your average teenager. Her voice, however, speaks volumes.

Praise's musical journey began at the tender age of four, nurtured by a supportive father who recognised her budding talent.

"At the age of four, I was singing and my dad gave me attention," she recalls. "He plays the piano, so he would train me."

This early exposure not only ignited her passion, but also sharpened her skills. Praise is a gifted musician, captivating audiences with her ability to sing while simultaneously playing the keyboard a rare talent that undoubtedly set her apart in the competition.

The road to the crown wasn't without its challenges. Balancing schoolwork with the demands of the competition proved to be difficult.

"I had to miss school for two weeks and attend the boot camp to prepare for this day," she admits.

However, her determination outweighed the obstacles. When she took the stage, performing Juliana Kanyomozi's Kanyimbe, the judges were left speechless.

"To whoever didn't go to church, you brought church in here and all you have done is deliver," declared judge Exodus.

Captivated by the melodious voice that resonated through the venue her determination and talent shone through, earning her a "golden buzzer" during the preliminary stages, a coveted distinction that granted her more time to focus on the finals.

Emerging victorious wasn't just about the title.

"Becoming Miss Bukedde means so much to me," says Wisdom, her voice filled with excitement. "I have got a big audience and my brand has changed. I believe I have got so many opportunities out there."

Noah Kibuuka: A Father's unwavering support

Witnessing his daughter crowned Miss Bukedde filled Noah Kibuuka, Wisdom's father, with immense pride.

"Wisdom has always been passionate about singing since she was four years old," he said. "I am glad Bukedde has given her this platform." He describes his daughter as a "disciplined, hardworking, and calm person," qualities that undoubtedly contributed to her success. Mr. Kibuuka's unwavering support played a pivotal role in Wisdom's journey. "I have always encouraged her to honor her calling because that's what God called her to do," he emphasises. "Wisdom delivered."

Mukisa Godfrey Ssemakula: From Nursery Teacher to Musical Champion

Standing tall beside Praise is Mukisa Godfrey Ssemakula, the newly crowned Mr Bukedde. At 26, this nursery teacher brings a vibrant energy to the stage, his passion for music is seen in his performance. Much like Praise, Mukisa's love for music blossomed through family. "I always admired seeing my dad singing in church, the way he would sing different keynotes made me fall in love with singing," he said.

Godfrey Mukisa Ssemakula the new Mr Bukedde receiving gifts from Sumz Foods

However, his initial incursion into the world of performance presented its own challenges. Stage fright and self-doubt threatened to hold him back. "I used to be nervous and fearful stepping on stage to perform, my fellow competitors were fantastic, " he confessed. Additionally, transport posed logistical difficulties for the young man residing in Lutengo, Mukono district.

Despite the initial challenges, Ssemakula persevered, when he took the stage, his rendition of Haruna Mubiru's Ebintu Byomukwano Bibonyabonya proved to be electrifying. Judge Joseph Batte, impressed by Ssemakula's performance, remarked, "Your dance moves were witchy, but I loved them because they fit in very well. I'm sure even the artist of the song would have loved your performance if he saw you."

 Ssemakula credits the competition with fostering a sense of friendship amongst the contestants. "The week we stayed together in the boot camp preparing for the big day, I made my competitors my friends," he recounts. Beyond friendships, the luxurious accommodations at the boot camp left a lasting impression. "The village boy in me had never slept in such a bed," he chuckled with delight. "Breakfast always found me in bed," he added, highlighting the exceptional service provided.

For Ssemakula, the competition wasn't just about winning, it was about visibility. "The world has got to know who I am," he declared. His victory solidified his dream of pursuing music seriously. The prize money will not only allow him to create music videos, but also empower him to support aspiring young musicians from his village of Lutengo.

Ssemakula's victory resonated deeply with his mother, Annet Nanfuuka. "Ssemakula promised me to win whenever we would go through some difficulties," she shared, tears welling in her eyes. "I am very grateful that he has made it come true."

The Prize

It is right to refer both Mr and Miss Bukedde as landlord and landlady since the title came along with a plot of land in Kakiri from Njovu estate developers and 5 million Ugandan shillings for each winner. This provided a significant first step towards achieving their dream of becoming recording music artists.

A Shared Victory, a Bright Future

Praise Wisdom and Mukisa Godfrey Ssemakula represent the heart and soul of the Mr. and Miss Bukedde competition. Their stories are testaments to the power of passion, perseverance, and unwavering belief. As they embark on their journeys, armed with newfound confidence, talent, and resources, one thing remains certain their voices, and their stories, will continue to inspire.