What you need to know:
A trained journalist with a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from Kampala International University (Class of 2023), he has successfully blended his passions for performance, advocacy, and youth empowerment under his company, Talent Walls Management
Ivan Mukiza, popularly known as Ivo Official, is using his influence as a professional dancer and youth figure to champion mental health awareness among students across Uganda.
Born and raised in Kampala to Bafumbira parents from Kisoro District, Ivo Official has emerged as a force in Uganda’s creative industry. A trained journalist with a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from Kampala International University (Class of 2023), he has successfully blended his passions for performance, advocacy, and youth empowerment under his company, Talent Walls Management.
Best known for his captivating stage presence and choreography, Ivo has performed on some of Africa’s biggest platforms, including East Africa’s Got Talent, Coke Studio Africa, and the HiPipo Music Awards. He has also featured in several major music videos such as
Practical
by Eddy Kenzo,
Bwe Paba
by Fik Fameica and Sheebah,
Adam
by An-Known, and
Koona
by Vinka.
But beyond the glitz and music, Ivo has recently turned his energy toward mental health advocacy. In early 2024, he launched Party Parade, a school outreach campaign designed to use creativity, dance, and open dialogue to address mental health challenges among students. The initiative culminated in a vibrant final event held at Kati Kati Grounds in Lugogo on May 18, 2024.
“Many young people are suffering in silence. We wanted to create a space where they could feel heard, express themselves, and connect with others facing similar struggles,” Ivo said.
Through Party Parade, Ivo and his team visited several schools across the country, conducting workshops and interactive sessions that encouraged students to speak openly about their emotional and psychological well-being. Using dance, art, music, and storytelling, the sessions promoted self-expression and built a supportive peer environment.
The initiative, executed under Talent Walls, also partnered with fellow creatives and mental health professionals to ensure students received accurate information and emotional support. “It’s not just about performance—it’s about purpose,” Ivo emphasized.
Ivo is also a co-founder of the BSD Crew and Tucheze Dance Initiative, platforms that continue to mentor young dancers and creatives. His work stands at the intersection of art and activism—blending performance with purpose to inspire, heal, and unite.
His digital footprint is just as impactful. On TikTok, where he boasts nearly 2 million followers, he uses short, expressive videos not only to showcase dance but to promote self-expression and mental health awareness. His content often sparks conversations among young people navigating their own emotional journeys, making his page a hub for empowerment and relatability.
With Uganda’s youth facing growing mental health pressures, Ivo hopes Party Parade becomes a long-term movement. “We want this to be more than a one-off campaign. We’re building a community that listens, shares, and lifts each other up.”
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
