HOPE AMPURIRE
“Start where you are, with what you have, and keep moving forward no matter the challenges.”
Meet Hope Ampurire, a Ugandan Multimedia journalist passionate about using sport as a platform for positive change. Her work spans local and international events, highlighting unrepresented voice and stories that inspire inclusion, wellness, mental health and youth development.
“My love for sports started by playing football and basketball in high school, and by analysing games with friends who then encouraged me to do it professionally.
I have had a mix of friends, colleagues and mentors who saw my passion and pushed me to believe in myself.
I worked at radio stations like Hot 100, Capital FM, and Next Media before signing with Vision Group Uganda.”
“Transitioning from radio to TV and writing was a big shift that taught me sports is about connection, not just match analysis.
At first, I struggled to speak from my heart and impress the audience, but over time, I found my voice and grew into the role.
At Vision Group, my editors and teammates have supported my growth, giving me space to find my voice and take on new challenges.
Most importantly, my husband has been a constant pillar, watching my shows, reading my stories, offering corrections, and supporting me especially when I nearly gave up on sports journalism. He has been a big inspiration in many aspects.”
SOME INSPIRING SPORTING MOMENTS FOR HOPE
“One sporting moment that deeply influenced me was telling the story of Mary Cholhok Nuba, a South Sudanese-born Ugandan netball professional player who gave birth young. Cholhok defied societal mindsets to become a champion with her UK team after COVID.
Another powerful moment was witnessing the friendship between athletics athletes, Halima Nakayi and Winnie Nanyondo, who studied and lived together, yet competed fiercely and supported each other on the World Stage. When Nakayi won gold in the Women's 800 meters at the 2019 Doha World Athletics Championships, Nanyondo's immediate embrace proved to me that true sportsmanship is built on unity and respect.”
MENTAL HEALTH IN SPORT
“For athletes to perform at their best, they need access to mental health resources such as counselling and stress management tools, including peer support groups and time management strategies that help them balance training, recovery, and personal life.
Creating safe spaces where athletes can openly discuss their struggles is key to breaking the silence. Ultimately, mental wellness should be treated with the same seriousness as physical fitness.
I want to stress the importance of mental health and wellness. I aim for alignment by giving energy to the most important parts of myself, trusting the rest will follow.”
“To young women wanting to work in sports, I would say, believe in your voice and your story, even when it feels like the room is not built for you.
Be persistent, this industry can be tough, but your passion will and resilience will open doors.
Most importantly take care of your mental and emotional wellbeing, it is what will keep you going when the pressure is high.
Through my journey, I hope to show that success is not about trophies or headlines but about staying true to yourself and taking care of your whole self.”
