For years, the spotlight in Uganda’s entertainment industry has largely focused on the musicians, performers and celebrities who command audiences. But behind many of the careers that have shaped the industry are entrepreneurs whose work rarely receives the same attention.

Julius Kyazze is one of them.

After more than two decades of investing in talent, building entertainment businesses and creating platforms for artists, Kyazze has received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Uganda Law Society in recognition of his contribution to the growth of Uganda’s creative industry.

He received the award on November 12, 2026, at a ceremony in Kololo.

Signed by Uganda Law Society President Isaac K. Ssemakadde, the certificate recognises Kyazze for his role in “identifying and developing talent, establishing creative businesses and platforms, and creating opportunities for artists.”

The recognition highlights a side of the entertainment business that often goes unnoticed: the work of building the infrastructure, commercial opportunities and professional systems that enable artists to turn their talent into sustainable careers.

A major part of Kyazze’s contribution has been through Swangz Avenue, the record label and entertainment company he co-founded in 2008.

Over the years, the company has played a significant role in developing and managing artists, including Irene Ntale, Winnie Nwagi, Vinka and Azawi. Its operations have also expanded beyond music production into talent management, brand partnerships and entertainment production.

By adopting a business-oriented approach to artist development, Swangz Avenue has helped demonstrate how Ugandan talent can be nurtured, marketed and positioned for commercial success.

This has been particularly important in an industry where gifted performers are plentiful, but access to professional management, investment and sustainable business opportunities has often remained a challenge.

Kyazze has since broadened his entrepreneurial ambitions beyond the conventional record-label structure.

Through Live54+, he has ventured further into the creative and experiential economy, with interests spanning media, events, content production, brand partnerships and talent development.

The business also reflects an ambition to build creative opportunities beyond Uganda, with interests extending into markets such as Kenya, Tanzania, Ghana and Rwanda.

His latest recognition therefore goes beyond celebrating longevity in the entertainment business. It acknowledges the entrepreneurial contribution of someone who has spent much of his career building opportunities for others to succeed.

While artists remain the public face of the industry, Kyazze’s journey illustrates the importance of the people and businesses working behind the scenes to develop talent, create platforms and transform creativity into an economic enterprise.