Respected journalist-turned-politician Zambaali Bulaasio Mukasa is opening up about a deeply personal and emotional chapter from his early school days — a time when his name, now known across Uganda, once became a source of ridicule.
In a heartfelt reflection, the former NBS TV news anchor revealed that as a young boy, he temporarily changed his name just to fit in with classmates who mocked him for being “different.”
“Students at school used to ridicule my name Zambaali,” he shared. “I reached a moment and changed the name Bulaasio to Brian.”
“I Was Just a Boy Who Wanted to Belong”
Zambaali’s confession has struck a chord online, especially with fans who’ve faced similar struggles with identity and self-acceptance.
The celebrated media personality admitted that at the time, all he wanted was to blend in and avoid mockery from his peers. The name “Brian” — modern, simple, and Western-sounding — seemed like an easy escape from the laughter.
“At that time, I just wanted to belong,” a source close to Zambaali said. “He didn’t want to be teased for being different, so he tried to reinvent himself.”
Rediscovering His Heritage and Pride
Everything changed when Zambaali was preparing to sit for his Primary Leaving Examinations (P.L.E.). His parents took the time to explain the rich cultural heritage and deep significance behind his given names — particularly “Bulaasio.”
“Before I sat for my PLE, my parents convinced me about the rich heritage and significance of my name, and I took them on with boldness and confidence,” he recalled.
That moment, he says, became a turning point in his life — one that taught him to embrace his roots unapologetically.
It wasn’t just about a name anymore; it was about identity, pride, and legacy.
A Lesson in Self-Acceptance
Zambaali’s story is more than a personal anecdote — it’s a powerful reminder about the struggles many young Africans face while growing up in a world that often glorifies foreign-sounding names over local heritage.
For Zambaali, reclaiming his birth name became an act of self-love and defiance — a decision that has shaped not only his confidence but also his professional journey.
“The moment I understood what my name stood for, I carried it with pride,” he has said in past interviews. “It represents my family, my faith, and where I come from.”
Inspiration From His Grandfather
Zambaali also revealed what sparked his passion for journalism — an admiration that began in his childhood, inspired by his grandfather’s deep respect for two iconic Luganda news anchors: Ssozi Kaddu-Mukasa and the late Mulindwa Muwonge.
“Ekitiibwa jjajja kye yawa Ssozzi Kaddu-Mukasa n’omugenzi Mulindwa Muwonge kyandeetera okwegomba omulimu gwabwe,” Zambaali explained in Luganda. “That admiration is what pushed me to study and pursue Luganda journalism.”
His grandfather’s influence not only shaped his career path but also cemented his belief in the power of language, storytelling, and cultural identity.
From TV Star to Politician
Before entering politics, Zambaali Bulaasio Mukasa built a stellar career in Ugandan media. As a beloved NBS TV anchor, he became known for his calm presence, articulate reporting, and passionate use of Luganda — something that made him stand out in a media landscape dominated by English.
His transition from the newsroom to the political stage has been seamless, driven by a mission to uplift his community and promote authentic Ugandan values.
And perhaps, his journey of learning to embrace his name early on has helped him carry that same self-assurance into public service.
Social Media Reacts: “We’ve All Been There”
After Zambaali’s revelation went public, social media lit up with praise, empathy, and personal stories.
Many users said they related to the pressure of changing names to avoid bullying or judgment.
“I changed my name in school too,” one commenter wrote. “Hearing Zambaali talk about it makes me want to reclaim mine again.”
Another fan posted:
“Our names have meaning. They tell our stories. Thank you, Zambaali, for reminding us of that.”
Why His Story Matters
In a society where Western names are often seen as “cool” or “professional,” Zambaali’s experience is a powerful reflection of cultural insecurity and the need for identity pride.
By speaking out, he’s using his platform to encourage Ugandan youth to love who they are — names and all.
“There’s strength in knowing your roots,” one cultural commentator told Entertainment Page One. “Zambaali’s honesty helps young people understand that it’s okay to be different.”
Final Thoughts
Zambaali Bulaasio Mukasa’s story is not just about a name — it’s about self-discovery, resilience, and reclaiming one’s identity in a world that often tells you to change.
From being teased as a young boy to becoming a respected journalist and politician, his journey shows how embracing one’s heritage can become the foundation for lifelong confidence.
As Zambaali himself put it best, “When you know the value of your name, you walk with pride — no matter who laughs.”
What do you think about Zambaali’s story of name and identity?
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