Miss Uganda 2013 Stellah Nantumbwe is one of the role models of Nalubega Rukia, 25, of Masaka District, Central Region, Uganda. From acting, the latter is now embarking on a new journey as one of the Miss Universe Uganda 2026 finalists.
Nalubega Rukia
While pursuing a bachelor’s degree in drama and film at Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda, Rukia became a professional actor. Her acting portfolio includes playing Brenda in the television series “Prefects” in 2024 and Zabbuli in the TV series “Damalie” in 2025.
Driven by personal experience, Rukia is committed to creating safe spaces where young people feel seen, heard, valued and empowered to pursue their dreams with confidence. She believes that every young person deserves to feel seen, heard and empowered.
“I am an advocate for mental health awareness and anti-bullying initiatives,” Rukia stated. “Having personally experienced both, I understand the importance of creating safe spaces where young people can speak openly about their challenges and pursue their dreams with confidence.”
In Rukia’s free time, she enjoys evening walks and learning new languages. She is also into meditation, which helps her nurture her mental well-being and personal growth.
Stellah Nantumbwe
Rukia admires Nantumbwe’s grace, versatility and dedication to her career and family. Hailing from Kampala, Uganda, the latter graduated from the University of Greenwich in London, England, United Kingdom in 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in computing.
On September 28, 2013, Nantumbwe represented Uganda at Miss World 2013 and competed against 126 other candidates at the Bali Nusa Dua Convention Center in South Kuta, Bali, Indonesia. She was unplaced.
From beauty pageants, Nantumbwe successfully transitioned to acting. She played Isabel Laloyo in the TV series “Second Chance” from 2016 to 2018 and Vivian in the Mathew Nabwiso film “Sabotage”, which was released in Uganda on February 15, 2024.
Miss Universe Uganda 2026
Since 1967, Uganda has been competing in Miss World, which is based in London. In November 2026, the African country will make its Miss Universe debut.
Including Rukia, a total of 25 women are competing for the Miss Universe Uganda 2026 crown. Here are the other candidates:
- Akanyijuka Adrine, 23, Mbarara District, Western Region
- Aromorach Teopista, 25, Pakwach District, Northern Region
- Bridget Katungi, 34, Kazi District, Western Region
- Coogi Africa Bahati Lubega, 23, Kayunga District, Central Region
- Ethel Lanyero, 35, Soroti District | Eastern Region
- Evelyne Kyokusima, 20, Kanungu District, Western Region
- Jemima Mpoza, 19, Wakiso District, Central Region
- Joan Nabatanzi, 27, Butambala District, Central Region
- Kanyali Dezranta Wright, 23, Namutumba District, Eastern Region
- Kasande Sheba, 23, Kamwenge District, Western Region
- Kimberly Jael Aremo Acio, 19, Kole District, Northern Region
- Leyla Saleh Said, 24, 24, Fort Portal, Western Region
- Mitchelle Daka, 29, Budaka District, Eastern Region
- Mugisha Faith Uwitonze, 19, Mbarara District, Western Region
- Mutesi Patience, 23, Hoima District, Western Region
- Mwebaza Pearl Namumbya, 22, Bugiri District, Eastern Region
- Nabuzale Elina Prisca, 25, Sironko District, Eastern Region
- Nakabito Latifah, 23, Rakai District | Central Region
- Nakazzi Gloriah, 31, Wakiso District, Central Region
- Namanda Leticia Katongole, 25, Wakiso District, Central Region
- Purity Livingstone Lamara, 25, Kitgum District, Northern Region
- Sasha Traore, 24, Kabarole District, Western Region
- Sharlyn Mukisa, 27, Kampala District, Central Region
- Sureyah Umeimah, 27, Jinja District, Eastern Region
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