Success despite setbacks

Cleopatra Koheirwa

Cleopatra Koheirwa is a Ugandan dancer, singer, actress and radio host. She told SHIRLEY GENGA how she overcame the loss of her mother to become the star she is today

What are you up to since leaving the Obsessions entertainment group?

I am currently in Kenya to work on my album. I am writing songs for my first solo music album with the guidance of Kenyan producer Beat Mekah of Cypher Music, who is also my manager. When I decided to pursue music professionally, I shopped around and settled on Cypher because it suited my style.

How would you describe your sound?

It is electro pop with an African touch. My first single, Party on my Mind is already out. It is a happy-go-lucky song about letting loose and enjoying yourself.

What is the general response so far?

The reaction has been very good. It was my friends and family who urged me to continue pursuing music after I left Obsessions and they are happy about my work.

Tell us about your childhood…

I grew up in Kampala and I am an only child. My father died before I was born and was raise with my mom. Sadly, though, she died when I was 13 and I was taken in by her brother and his wife.

How did your life change?

My mum worked for the government in the president’s office and given that I was her only child, I was a bit spoilt (laughs). I had my own room and TV.  My environment suddenly changed and it was hard to adjust. My uncle, his wife and his three sons were very welcoming and it helped.

How did losing your mum change you?

I was forced to grow up and for the first time, I realised I could not take any opportunities that came my way for granted. I felt like no one would want me if I did not do well in school.

When did you discover you had a passion for the arts?

I would dance, act and do music in primary school, but only because I knew my mum would come and watch me perform. When I went to high school, however, it became my way to escape. So much had happened in my life and the arts provided an avenue to escape and forget the difficult times.

What did you study in campus?

I went to Bugena Adventist Secondary School for my O-levels and Namasagali College for my A-levels, both in Uganda. After high school, I joined Makerere University to study Bachelor of Arts in Social Science. I have always wanted to pursue Mass Communication, but it was very expensive, so I settled for Social Science. I did not let that deter me. I continued to write and was part of the editorial team on campus.

How did you join Obsessions?

Obsessions was formed in 1999 and I always wanted to join them. While in high school, I was involved in theatre. During one of our performances, Obsessions was in attendance and they liked my performance and asked me to join, but my guardians refused. I met some of the members a while later and this time my guardians allowed me to be part of the group. They realised the Obsessions team was focused and a disciplined, and were not a negative influence to me.

What do you feel Obsessions accomplished?

We set a high standard in the entertainment industry, including dance and theatre. Our choreography was spot on and professional, and the costumes were spectacular. We set very high standards and before long, we were on everyone’s lips all over East Africa.

What made you leave Obsessions?

I joined the group in 2001 and stayed until 2007. I left because I wanted to focus on my personal career. I loved being in the group, but it reached a point where I wanted to branch into other things, which would not have been possible in a group.

You are also an actress; tell us about it…

I got into the TV/film industry in 2004 when I was still in Obsessions. I first did an entertainment lifestyle show then a political show before I moved to a show that was all about fitness and health at WBS TV in Uganda. In 2006, I got the chance to play the role of Joey in Last King of Scotland. Later, I acted in State Research Bureau, Changes Season I and II, and Be the Judge, which earned me a Kalasha Award nomination. I will soon be on television again as a Judge on UG Factor. The show modeled on Project Fame or X-Factor style.

You were also on radio. Tell us about it…

While still in Obsessions, I hosted a show with Hakim on Capital FM, Uganda, in 2005. I did not take it seriously then, but I slowly began to realise I was good at it. I am currently hosting the drive show at Radio City 97 FM together with Hakim and I love every moment of it.

Do you still write?

I became a writer at African Woman Magazine in 2005 where I wrote features about events and music. I later became a staff writer, I focused on celebrity features. It, however, became difficult to be a staff writer because I had many other things to do. I am now a contributor.

The paparazzi in Uganda are quite aggressive. How do you deal with it?

I try to keep a low profile. I am private and I try to avoid controversies.

How do you deal with the tabloids?

The rumours are sometimes funny and other times they are ridiculous like the one that claimed I was dating Peter Miles. Other times they publish hurtful stories such as the one that said I acted in a blue movie. It was the worst rumour, but I am glad the media, my fans, friends and family stood by me and the truth triumphed in the end.

What is the most important lesson you have learnt about love?

Love is very complicated. I have been in two serious relationships. I was a romantic when I was younger, but I am now a bit skeptical (laughs). I have come to learn that you cannot make someone remain faithful. If a man has decided to be unfaithful, it does not matter what you do as a woman, so never blame yourself.

Are you dating?

Not currently. When you are in the limelight, it is hard to tell genuine love.

What qualities do you look for in a man?

He has to be respectful and have a sense of humour. He should also be humble, confident and God fearing.

How do you give back to society?

I am a goodwill ambassador for ‘Reach a hand Uganda’. The initiative focuses on the young people. I visit schools where I mentor and talk to young people. I share my experiences and give them an avenue where they can express themselves. When I was younger, I was too scared to talk to my guardians about what I was going through. Everyone should find a way to give back to society.