Uganda’s marketing, communications, advertising, and human resource professionals continue to rally behind a shared agenda to promote mental health, corporate collaboration, and personal well-being in their respective industries.
Through initiatives like the Annual Intersociety Connect, professional societies are working to foster healthier, more resilient workforces amid the growing pressures of high-performance corporate environments.
The Intersociety Connect, now in its third edition, brings together members from the Uganda Marketers Society (UMS), the Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU), the Uganda Advertising Association (UAA), and the Human Resource Managers’ Association of Uganda (HRMAU).
More than just a networking platform, the initiative is designed to equip professionals with the tools and support systems needed to address the rising mental health risks associated with fast-paced, high-demand industries.
At the heart of the engagement is a deliberate focus on mental health, financial planning, and physical wellness.
Experts, such as Darius Niwaha, CEO of Octagon Africa, have been engaging members in conversations around practical solutions to tackle mental health decline and improve financial preparedness among professionals.
Beyond dialogue, activities like team sports, treasure hunts, and recreational games are integrated into the programme to promote physical wellness.
This is to encourage professionals to reconnect in informal settings, helping break the stigma around mental health conversations and enhancing overall well-being.
According to Waswa Moses, Director of PR and Marketing at HRMAU, initiatives like these play a key role in building a self-sustaining ecosystem of professionals.
“This is about more than work. It’s about creating an environment where collaboration, support, and wellness thrive across our industries,” he said.
The emphasis on well-being resonates strongly with industry leaders. Charity Winnie Kamusiime Asiimwe, President of UMS, believes professional excellence cannot be separated from personal wellness.
“As the Uganda Marketers Society, we know that a thriving professional community depends on healthy, supported individuals,” she stated.
“Through continued engagements, we champion wellness, mental health awareness, and collaboration as cornerstones of success,” she continued.
For the communications industry, the need to prioritise mental health is equally pressing. PRAU President Irene Nakasiita notes that many professionals are silently battling stress and burnout, often with tragic consequences.
“Too often, corporate life comes with hidden mental health struggles that escalate into crises. Through intersociety connections, we are building a support network, reminding professionals that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness,” she explained.
Nakasiita adds that beyond wellness, such platforms also help members expand their professional networks, nurture partnerships, and boost social capital.
Recent global studies have highlighted how prevalent mental health challenges are in creative and corporate sectors.
A 2023 survey by the National Advertising Benevolent Society (NABS) found that over 60% of respondents reported negative impacts on their mental health due to work, with nearly half saying they were uncomfortable discussing these challenges with their managers.
Though the survey was conducted in the UK, its findings reflect global realities that apply to Uganda’s professional landscape as well.
Rommel Jasi, Chairman of the Uganda Advertising Association, says the advertising industry, in particular, faces immense mental health pressures.
“Our members work in highly demanding environments where burnout and fatigue are common. Through initiatives like the Intersociety Connect,” he said.
“We are breaking down barriers between industry players and building support systems that help members cope and thrive,” Jasi remarked.
Uganda’s professional associations remain committed to these goals, with growing collaborations and wellness-focused programmes set to continue shaping the country’s corporate environment.
The Intersociety Connect has enjoyed support from several corporate sponsors, including antfeet, etroca, Blend, Vision Group, and Next Media, reinforcing the wider recognition of wellness as a business imperative.
About the Associations
The Human Resource Managers’ Association of Uganda (HRMAU) is the country’s leading body for HR professionals, focused on advancing professional standards, skills development, research, and collaboration in human resource management.
The Uganda Marketers Society (UMS) promotes excellence in marketing by providing resources, training, and networking opportunities.
UMS is affiliated with the Chartered Institute of Marketing and the African Marketing Confederation.
The Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU) is the umbrella body for PR practitioners, established in 1976.
PRAU is a member of regional and global networks, including the East African Public Relations Association (EAPRA), African Public Relations Association (APRA), and the International Public Relations Association (IPRA).
The Uganda Advertising Association (UAA) represents advertising professionals and agencies, promoting global creative standards.
UAA also serves as Uganda’s official representative for major international platforms such as Cannes Lions and The Loeries.
