Today we’d like to introduce you to Nalubega Aidah Bukenya.
Hi Nalubega Aidah , so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey in the beauty and entertainment industries has been guided by a simple belief: that transformation both personal and creative is a powerful force. For nearly a decade, I have been building bridges between beauty, business, and storytelling, creating a path that reflects my vision for a more inclusive and expressive world.
It began with ABC Cosmetix, a brand I founded 9 years ago with a clear mission: to provide high-quality, scientifically formulated beauty cosmetics tailored to African skin tones. What began as a passionate idea has evolved into a thriving business recognized for its innovation and community impact. Our “Matte Nile” pick lips, Body Grow cream remains a standout, and through our “Glow & Empower” initiative, we have trained and inspired hundreds of young women across Uganda, helping them build skills and confidence.
Parallel to this, I embraced the digital space as a creator, where I connect with a vibrant community of over 10k+ followers. Through humor, beauty tutorials, and relatable storytelling, I found a way to merge my entrepreneurial spirit with my love for performance a combination that soon opened new doors.
One of the most fulfilling parts of my career has been my work in film. Roles in projects like the Netflix original “Kampala Beauty” and Aromatic Entertainment’s “Best Friend” allowed me to step into characters that resonate with the stories of modern Ugandan women. Each role feels like an extension of my purpose to empower, entertain, and elevate.
Today, I see myself as part of a new generation of African creators: unafraid to merge passion with profession, and committed to leaving a meaningful legacy. My story is still being written, but its foundation rests on the belief that with vision, resilience, and heart, we can redefine what’s possible.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
In the beginning, the biggest struggle was being taken seriously. I was a young woman with what many called a “side hustle” trying to break into the beauty industry, which was dominated by established international brands. I heard “no” more times than I can count. Suppliers would doubt my orders, and some potential retailers would question if a Ugandan brand could ever meet international quality standards. There were moments of deep frustration, sitting with a formula that wasn’t quite right or facing a production delay that felt like the end of the world. I had to become my own biggest believer when external validation was scarce.
Then, as I began to find my footing, a new challenge emerged: balance. Juggling the roles of CEO, content creator, and actress is not for the faint of heart. There were days I’d be on a film set at dawn, reviewing product designs between takes, and then shooting TikTok content late into the night. The lines between my personal life and my work completely blurred. I struggled with guilt, feeling like I wasn’t giving enough to any one part of my life. I learned that “having it all” doesn’t mean doing it all at once, and that building a strong team isn’t a sign of weakness, but the foundation of sustainable success.
Perhaps the most personal struggle has been navigating public perception. When you put yourself online, you open yourself up to both immense support and sharp criticism. Learning to silence the noise and stay true to my vision, especially on days when the negativity felt loud, has been an ongoing journey. It’s taught me that resilience isn’t about having a thick skin; it’s about having a strong core sense of self that no comment or setback can shake.
So no, the road hasn’t been smooth. But every pothole taught me how to steer, and every steep hill showed me I was stronger than I thought. The struggles didn’t break me; they built the resilience I rely on every single day.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
First and foremost, I am the Founder and CEO of ABC Cosmetix. For the past 9 yrs, I’ve dedicated myself to building a beauty brand that does more than sell products. We specialize in creating high-quality, scientifically backed cosmetics meticulously formulated for African skin tones. What we’re known for is our commitment to quality and authenticity, proving that world-class beauty products can be made right here in Uganda. From our signature “Matte Nile” liquid lipsticks to our growing skincare line, every product is crafted with a deep understanding of our community’s needs.
Second, I am a Content Creator and Storyteller. Through my platform on TikTok and other social media, I connect with a global community of over two million people. I specialize in creating content that is both entertaining and educational whether it’s a viral comedy skit, an in-depth makeup tutorial, or a behind-the-scenes look at running a business. This isn’t a separate job; it’s the heartbeat of my brand, allowing me to engage in a real, authentic conversation with the people I serve.
Third, I am an Actress. My work in films like “Kampala Beauty” on Netflix and “Best Friend” with Aromatic Entertainment allows me to tell longer-form stories that resonate with the experiences of modern African women.
When you ask what I am most proud of, it isn’t a single product or a viral video. I am most proud of building a legacy of empowerment. Through ABC Cosmetix’s “Glow & Empower” initiative, we have provided business and beauty skills training to hundreds of young women, giving them the tools to build their own economic independence. Seeing them launch their own salons, become makeup artists, and gain confidence is the real success story for me.
What sets me apart is my authentic integration of these roles. I’m not just a CEO who markets a product; I am the formulator, the face, and the biggest fan of my brand. I’m not an actress who just shows up on set; I bring a businesswoman’s understanding and a creator’s connection to my audience. This unique blend allows me to build trust and community in a way that a traditional business or a traditional celebrity cannot. I’m not just building a company; I’m cultivating a movement centered on confidence, creativity, and African excellence.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson I’ve learned, and one I have to re-learn almost daily, is this: Your authenticity is your greatest asset, not a liability.
Early on, I thought success meant fitting into a predefined mold. I tried to mimic the marketing strategies of major international brands, or present myself in a way I thought a “serious CEO” should act. It felt stiff, and it didn’t resonate. I was diluting the very thing that made me and my brand unique our story, our perspective, our Ugandan heart.
The turning point came when I embraced my whole, authentic self. I stopped separating “Nalubega Aidah Bukenya the CEO,” “nalunegaaidah1 the TikTok creator,” and “jalia, Nvanuji the actress.” I started bringing my sense of humor into my business posts, sharing my failures alongside my successes, and talking about the real challenges of being a young female entrepreneur in Uganda. I realized that people weren’t connecting with a perfect facade; they were connecting with a real person on a real journey.
This lesson transcends business. In acting, the roles that have resonated most are those that felt true to the complex experiences of women like me. In content creation, the videos that go viral are the ones where I’m not performing, but simply being.
So, my most important lesson is to trust your own voice. The world might already have versions of what you do, but it doesn’t have your unique combination of experiences, passion, and perspective. The moment you stop comparing and start embracing what makes you different is the moment you truly begin to stand out and build something with a soul. That authenticity is what builds unbreakable trust and a loyal community.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nalubegaaidahbukenya
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AidahABCcosmetix
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nalubegaaidahbukenya
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@aidahnalubega1
