Celebrating the life of Julie Mirembe

Juliet Mirembe Akiiki; a sister, friend, colleague and mentor – that and more is what she was at Malaika media. Julie, as she was known, left a mark that will forever be engraved in our hearts and those of many that encountered her presence. 

As the saying goes, “we all die but the goal is to create something that will live forever” – the person that Julie was will remain perpetual for ages to come.

Julie joined Malaika media in October 2017 as an administrator however, the love for her work and the hands-on-approach left a mark on the entire team that will forever be with the company. From administrator, she extended her touch to become director-in-charge of finance but was greatly involved in all the company’s work; handling social media, serving as project manager of The Lens foundation, doing the human resource duties just to mention but a few.

The fact that she took part in all forms of company work with a smile on her face and the ability to multi task made her invaluable to the company – she brought a mindset that cemented the professional touch at Malaika. A mindset that has seen the company soar above and beyond to become one of Uganda’s leading media brands.

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It wasn’t only about work with Julie; she was the complete package of what a human being should be – likeable, jovial, passionate, calm with a great sense of humor. Her down to earth nature made her see all people in the same light and offer care for anyone in need of it.

In a reminiscent mood, we spoke to company director, Emmanuel Museruka who told us that she loved chocolate and was a brilliant go-getter who started her own chocolate business – a testament to what she would achieve when she set her mind to it, stopping at nothing to reach her goals. Her carefree nature was another aspect that wowed Emmanuel who adds that she didn’t conform to the basic standards of society and was confident in her own skin as seen from how she dressed and carried herself while maintaining respect.

She impacted the lives of many people as witnessed at her funeral where even in her absence, the memories brought a lot of people together from many walks of life sharing joyful stories.

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Her greatest milestones while at Malaika media were that she brought the teams together, her sense of organization that streamlined everything from company finances across to the various creative departments, spearheading The Lens foundation and boosting the social visibility of the company.

Julie’s Legacy

“Every one would love to be Julie – humane and full of joy” as candidly spoken by Emmmanuel who highlighted her ability to put humanity before everything else. Understanding that people are human first and once that was handled then everything else would fall into place. Mr. Museruka remembers fondly that Julie would always quote, “Be stubborn about your goals and flexible with your methods” as something that touched him very much.

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The rest of the team

Giving Emmanuel a rest, I spoke to the rest of the team individually but in all that was said, these words stood out, “welcoming and selfless” further evidence of the kind of charisma she inspired in people.

We picked out some of the words from various team members at Malaika Media and this is what they had to say;

“She was this passionate person that believed in herself and didn’t give up even in her low moments, she would take time and get the job done” – Joan

“Julie was kind, always smiling and very approachable on any issue whether work or personal, she would always be there to provide advice, an ear and a shoulder whenever needed.” – Justine

“She was a kind hearted person that was a team player and encouraging in nature” – Blessing

“She was a kind, honest person that would speak her mind in every endeavour and I respected her for it” – Ken

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It is as vivid as day that Julie’s imprint is one that will always be part of Malaika media and her influence shall continue to live on through her various works particularly The Lens foundation which was started to give back to the less privileged in form of photography. 

God called her angel home and we are honoured to have shared a life with her; we pay tribute and celebrate her life. Rest in peace Juliet Akiiki Mirembe, till we meet again.