Mary comfort Auma was born and raised by a single-widowed mother. As the youngest of two children, Mary’s childhood was shaped by the unwavering strength of her widowed mother. Raised in a single-parent household, she witnessed firsthand the sacrifices and dedication required to navigate life’s challenges. Despite the hardships, Mary excelled academically, completing both primary and secondary school with honors. This foundation of discipline and determination would later serve her well in her creative pursuits. Mary is a designer who is resilient, creative, and embraces the power of one’s true calling.
While her academic achievements paved the way for higher education, Mary’s heart harbored a different passion. Initially drawn to the structured world of law and the expressive realm of writing, her creative spirit continuously surfaced. “Before I entered the arts world, I always wanted to be a lawyer or a writer,” Mary recalls. “But my creative side kept on cropping up in my daily life with the oversized clothes I often had to alter before I decided to become creative.”
This simple act of altering ill-fitting garments became a catalyst, a tangible manifestation of her innate artistic talent. It was in these moments of transformation, turning something ordinary into something unique, that Mary discovered her true calling. She enrolled in a tertiary institution, specializing in art with a focus on fashion, and embarked on a journey of self-discovery and artistic expression.
Mary’s design philosophy is deeply rooted in the concept of “being in a colorful world.” Her creations, primarily unique jackets and bags designed for everyday use, are a celebration of vibrancy and individuality. She refrains from the constraints of traditional collections by focusing on developing pieces that reflect the dynamism of life. Her designs are not just garments but wearable stories, filled with the energy and optimism that define her outlook.
Mary predominantly uses cotton printed fabrics that are environmentally friendly, prioritizing materials that are safe for the planet. She is conscious of the choice of materials she uses which reflects her understanding of the connection between fashion and the environment, a responsibility she embraces with passion.
Mary’s journey is just unfolding as her talent is undeniable. She has a desire to collaborate with other designers, and an eagerness to learn, grow and connect with other creatives. She is dedicated to her craft and desires to contribute to the flourishing Ugandan fashion scene.
Her vision extends beyond personal success. Mary dreams of seeing Uganda recognized globally as a thriving fashion hub. “Being globally known…not just for tourism as a country but as a fashion hub too,” she expresses. This aspiration speaks to her belief in the potential of Ugandan designers and her desire to elevate their presence on the international stage.
Mary recognizes that the fashion industry in Uganda is still in its budding stages, but she sees a promising future. “It’s a growing industry now that people are starting to appreciate home-based designers more than those from abroad,” she observes. This change in mindset, a growing regard for local talent is proof of the hardwork and dedication of designers like Mary, who are paving the way for a new era of Uganda fashion.
Her creative process is a blend of research and intuition. “I do research with what is on the market before I begin with the creative process,” Mary explains. This allows her to create designs that are both relevant and innovative.
Beyond her artistic pursuits, Mary is deeply committed to giving back to her community. She actively participates in charity work through her church, using her platform to make a positive impact on the lives of others. This dedication to service reflects her compassionate nature and her understanding of the importance of community support. Mary continues to develop her craft and contribute to the growth of the Ugandan fashion industry. Her story will undoubtedly inspire others to embrace their own creative potential and pursue their dreams with passion and determination.
