In the African setting, Uganda in particular, a child’s future is all planned and mapped out by the parents: graduate from university, get a job, marry, bear them grand kids and die. 22 year-old Arif Sempala on the other hand, defied this rule, perhaps owing to being born and raised in England. Quitting school after A Level, Arif went to America to pursue a career in professional basketball, which he cut short to partake his modeling passion, and scratch his entrepreneurial itch.

“Just started running a business – Vodo Green Tea(bevodo.co.uk) – with my good friend; not employing people, as we are doing everything ourselves, working with manufacturers to produce the best Green Tea in the industry. We have two flavours; Passion Fruit Lychee, and Lime Apple Pear and Honey.” The little gentleman explained his business.

Challenges with manufacturing bottles, labeling and distribution; all due to the model of selling they employ, just make him stronger. And even though he hasn’t planned to expand to Uganda as yet, Arif has big plans for the startup. His advice to the pulser out there is to never give up on their dream, no matter what.
“My dad always tells me if you give 1000% , there is no reason as to why you should fail. Confide in God and work hard; anything is possible as long as you believe.”

Talking belief, the young but towering 6-foot-3-inch tall Sempala longs to inspire the Ugandan youth with his life story,
“I have successfully walked for Puma, being the first Ugandan Model at an exclusive internal show that happens twice in a year, after being casted out of more than 200+ models from agencies all over UK. I didn’t go to UNI but I’ve received many scholarships to amazing schools because of my talent.”

Being a proud Muganda boy of Fumbe Clan from Mpigi district, Sempala believes Uganda should be known for more amazing things, not just as a clubbing country.