Doreck Ankunda

Doreck Ankunda is a Ugandan actress, disability inclusion advocate, and the team leader at Wings of Hope. She gained international recognition in 2024 when she won the Best Actress award at the Bayelsa International Film Festival in Nigeria for her role in the film When You Become Me. Ankunda's work as an actress is deeply influenced by her own experiences as a person with a disability, having lost her hearing in Mbarara, Uganda. She uses her platform to promote the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in the arts and media.

Background and career

Doreck Ankunda was born and raised in Uganda. Her life took a significant turn when she lost her hearing, which shaped her personal and professional journey. Despite facing societal barriers and challenges, she became passionate about advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities. This drive led her to become actively involved in disability inclusion initiatives, particularly in the arts.Ankunda's career in acting is marked by her commitment to authentic storytelling, particularly around themes of disability inclusion. Her role in When You Become Me, a film addressing discrimination, relationships, and self-doubt through the experiences of an editorial assistant with a disability, earned her widespread acclaim. The film, written by Aganza Kisaka and Ambrose Ngobi, directed by Mathew Nabwiso, and produced by Reach A Hand Uganda, Light For The World, and Sauti Plus Media Hub, tackles vital social issues including empathy, identity, and the challenges faced by people with disabilities. Ankunda drew from her own life experiences to portray her character authentically, making the role deeply personal and emotionally charged. The film’s themes resonated with Ankunda, reinforcing her belief in the importance of advocating for disability inclusion. She shared that portraying such themes had a profound impact on her, as it validated the experiences of people with disabilities and encouraged a wider societal acceptance of their contributions.

Recognition and advocacy

Ankunda’s award at the Bayelsa International Film Festival brought her international recognition, highlighting both her talent and the significance of her work in the context of Uganda’s burgeoning film industry. She expressed that the award was not just a personal triumph but also a moment of recognition for Uganda, demonstrating the country's growing commitment to inclusive storytelling. For Ankunda, the award served as a motivation to continue using her platform to champion the representation of people with disabilities in film and other media. In interviews, she emphasized the importance of African cinema sharing stories from underrepresented communities. She believes that people with disabilities are often marginalized and that cinema has the power to challenge societal stereotypes and promote inclusivity. By showcasing diverse experiences and perspectives, she hopes to encourage both filmmakers and audiences to recognize the potential of individuals with disabilities and support more inclusive practices within the industry.

Impact and legacy

Ankunda’s advocacy extends beyond her work in front of the camera. She is passionate about creating opportunities for young people with disabilities to pursue careers in the arts. She is particularly interested in projects that empower these individuals and raise awareness about their rights to participate fully in society.She sees her work as a way to break down barriers and foster greater inclusivity in all aspects of life. As a disability inclusion advocate, Ankunda also encourages the creation of an environment in the entertainment industry that is fully inclusive. She urges industry leaders to recognize the abilities of disabled individuals and provide them with equal opportunities in film and the arts. Doreck Ankunda's career and advocacy work represent a significant contribution to both the Ugandan film industry and the global conversation on disability inclusion. Her efforts to challenge societal norms and promote diverse representation in film and the arts have made her an influential figure in both the entertainment industry and the disability rights movement.

Personal life and future projects

Ankunda credits her family, friends, and mentors for their unwavering support throughout her career. Their encouragement and guidance have been crucial in helping her navigate the challenges of her profession and continue to pursue her passion for acting and advocacy. Looking ahead, she is excited about leading initiatives that will provide more opportunities for young people with disabilities to engage in the arts. She hopes to continue her work as an advocate for inclusive representation and to inspire future generations of disabled artists and storytellers.