The spirit of victory continues to shine in the family of legendary singer Halima Namakula. Just as the world celebrates the success of her son, Hemdee Kiwanuka, in the global film industry, another remarkable milestone has been achieved by her grandson Ryan Dee Kiwanuka.
Ryan Dee Kiwanuka, Hemdee’s son, has secured a full-ride scholarship to play American football at Western New Mexico University. This achievement marks a significant step in Ryan’s journey as a dedicated athlete, proving his resilience and commitment to the sport.
Despite a challenging high school football career, where internal team politics prevented him from playing during his junior and senior years, Ryan remained determined to pursue his dreams. Instead of giving up, he sought alternative ways to showcase his talent, participating in independent showcases and undergoing rigorous training.
Reflecting on his journey, Ryan shared, "It was a tough road. There were moments when I questioned whether this dream was even possible, but I refused to let circumstances define my future."
His persistence paid off when Western New Mexico University recognized his potential and offered him a scholarship to join their football program. The university’s coaches, Billy Hickman and Frankie Ayon, praised Ryan’s dedication, saying, "We saw a young man with determination, an outstanding work ethic, and an inspiring story of what it means to never give up. He embodies the qualities we value in our team."
Halima Namakula also expressed her pride in her grandson’s achievements. "Ryan is a testament to the power of perseverance. His journey hasn't been easy, but he has shown that determination can overcome any obstacle. We are all so proud of him."
Ryan’s success comes just months after his father, Hemdee Kiwanuka, made headlines for producing the acclaimed action-thriller Desert Dawn, featuring Hollywood stars Kellan Lutz and Cam Gigandet. With this latest achievement, the Kiwanuka family continues to make significant strides on both the sports and entertainment fronts.
Ryan now looks forward to excelling at the collegiate level, where he aims to build a lasting legacy both on and off the field.
Congratulations to Ryan Kiwanuka and the entire family on this incredible achievement!
