Chicago
Convention 2024

August 8th - 12th

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Welcome to the 2024 NUP Conference!

About the event

What awaits you in Chicago

 Delegates can look forward to immersing themselves in the vibrant tapestry of Chicago’s landmarks, culture, and history. From the towering skyscrapers along the Magnificent Mile to the serene beauty of Lake Michigan’s shores, Chicago promises an unforgettable experience. Explore the South Side’s Hyde Park, where President Barack Obama began his journey, embodying the hope of transformative change. 

Celebrating democracy & unity

 The convention offers a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, both Ugandans in the Diaspora and friends of Uganda. Engage in discussions on pressing issues, network with activists, and learn from global leaders in the realms of democracy and governance. Together, we can forge a path towards a brighter future for Uganda. 

Why You Should Attend

 This conference is more than an event – it’s a call to action. For Ugandans longing for positive change and friends of Uganda who share in the vision, this convention is a platform to amplify your voice, gain valuable insights, and contribute to the momentum of progress. Join hands with fellow advocates, learn from history, and shape a better tomorrow for Uganda. 

NUP Chicago 2024 Diaspora Convention Speakers

President Robert Ssentamu Kyagulanyi

Keynote Speaker

Hon. Kyagulanyi Ssentamu Robert, widely recognized by his stage name Bobi Wine, is a multi-talented Ugandan singer, musician, actor, and activist. He has seamlessly transitioned from being an artiste to a prominent politician, earning immense popularity as the leader of the generational and transformational People Power Movement. Established in 2018, this resistance pressure group strives to unite Ugandans worldwide on crucial issues such as ending human rights abuse, corruption, redefining the rule of law, and restoring dignity to rebuild lives. Currently serving as the President of the National Unity Platform (NUP), the political arm of the People Power Movement, Hon. Kyagulanyi Ssentamu was also the NUP presidential flag-bearer in the January 2021 general elections, which were marred by unprecedented violence. His unwavering dedication to the people’s cause has made him a beacon of hope and a symbol of change in Uganda.

Danny K Davis

Distinguished Guest Speaker

Join us in welcoming Congressman Danny K Davis of Illinois, who serves in the 117th US Congress, as a distinguished guest speaker at our convention. Committed to peace and justice both domestically and internationally, Congressman Davis will share his invaluable insights on the importance of good governance and democracy in Africa, with a focus on Uganda. With a rich background in public service, education, community organization, and civil rights advocacy, his participation promises to enrich our discussions and inspire meaningful action toward positive change in Uganda. We are grateful for his engagement and look forward to his contributions.

Professor David Ssejinja

guest Speaker

Dr. David Ssejinja is a distinguished expert in international politics, refugee migrant student leadership, and African education. His research on the socio-economic reintegration of Ugandan migrant worker returnees from the Middle East is widely published. As Coordinator for Utah Valley University’s Multicultural Students Center, Dr. Ssejinja is dedicated to supporting disadvantaged students through his charities, the Ssejinja Children’s Foundation and the American Leadership Class.

Professor James Powell

Guest Speaker

Professor James Powell, an Adjunct Professor at Utah Valley University, brings a wealth of experience in education with credentials from Universidad de Salamanca and Utah State University. He specializes in teaching English to international students and actively contributes
to charities such as 100 Humanitarians International in Kenya. Professor Powell is also the long-time producer and host of “The Jim Powell Report” on YouTube and serves on the board of directors for the American Leadership Class.

Professor Tim Szczepanski

guest Speaker

As the Director of Student Engagement & Services at California State University, Northridge, Professor Tim Szczepanski is a celebrated educator and innovator. He is a passionate mentor who instills the principles of servant leadership in his students and serves on the board of directors for the American Leadership Academy.

Katie Lowe

Guest Speaker

Katie Lowe is the Chief Financial Officer of the American Leaders Class (ALC) and a member of iits executive governing board. Based at ALC's headquarters in Utah, she is a committed human rights activist and educator dedicated to empowering African students through leadership education. Her passion for teaching shines through her work with ALC students in Uganda.

Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi

Leader of Opposition of Uganda Parliament

Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi is the Leader of Opposition of the Parliament of the Republic of Uganda and elected representative of the Nakawa West constituency in Kampala. He also serves as the Spokesperson of the National Unity Platform. Hon. Ssenyonyi brings his exceptional leadership, communication skills and passion for public service to the forefront. His dedication to transparency and accountability underscores his commitment to fostering positive change in Uganda.

Professor Milton Alimadi

guest speaker

Milton Allimadi is the publisher of Black Star News and an Advisory Member of the NUP Diaspora. He co-leads the “Crisis Points in Africa” Task Force within PAUD and co-founded the “Stop Museveni Campaign” within the alliance. Additionally, he is an adjunct professor of African
History at John Jay College and journalism at the Graduate School of Journalism at Columbia University.

Leadership Workshop: Educate, Inform & Empower

The Leadership Workshop will be facilitated by experts from the American Leaders Class (ALC): Professor David Ssejinja, Professor James Powell, Professor Tim Szczepanski, and Katie Lowe.

DETAILS
Registration

The registration fees by our delegates and sponsors go towards running the conference and funding charity projects adopted from the convention resolutions. Registration fees are non-refundable but swaps shall be accommodated if pre-approved. All registration fees must be made online from the official event website except for international delegates without the means to pay online who can use Moneygram or western union.

Act swiftly to ensure your  place to plan ahead and make the most of your convention experience. 

Pay convention fee in 2 partial installments of $135 using this link.

In addition to convention access, we are excited to offer a thrilling Boat Cruise experience at $200. Sail the scenic waters of Lake Michigan, network with fellow attendees, and make unforgettable memories. 

Sponsership Packages

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Convention Venue

Marriott Chicago O'Hare

We are delighted to announce that the 2024 Convention will take place at the Marriott Chicago O’Hare, located at 8535 West Higgins Road, Chicago, IL 60631. If you encounter any challenges reserving your hotel room under the group discount, please contact the hotel directly at 844-202-2661 for assistance.

In our commitment to providing a comfortable and cost-effective experience for delegates, our team has successfully negotiated a special room rate of $179 per day for a Standard King or 2 doubles, including breakfast for one. Additionally, there is an option of $189 per day with breakfast for two included for a Standard King or 2 doubles with two occupants. All hotel rooms will feature complimentary WIFI. It’s important to note that the availability of discounted hotel rooms is limited, so we recommend reserving your room at the earliest convenience.

For the convenience of our delegates flying through O’Hare airport, a complimentary airport shuttle service will be provided every 30 minutes.

Details

Plan your trip in advance.
Find and reserve your hotel room in Chicago, find information about travel options.

Accomodation

We are delighted to announce that the 2024 Convention will take place at the Marriott Chicago O’Hare, located at 8535 West Higgins Road, Chicago, IL 60631. If you encounter any challenges reserving your hotel room under the group discount, please contact the hotel directly at 844-202-2661 for assistance.

In our commitment to providing a comfortable and cost-effective experience for delegates, our team has successfully negotiated a special room rate of $179 per day for a Standard King or 2 doubles, including breakfast for one. Additionally, there is an option of $189 per day with breakfast for two included for a Standard King or 2 doubles with two occupants. All hotel rooms will feature complimentary WIFI. It’s important to note that the availability of discounted hotel rooms is limited, so we recommend reserving your room at the earliest convenience.

For the convenience of our delegates flying through O’Hare airport, a complimentary airport shuttle service will be provided every 30 minutes.

Closest Airport:
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

  • Register early to give yourself enough time for your visa application process.
  • Make your visa appointment early.
  • Make sure to take your Convention registration acknowledgement and invitation letter to your visa appointment.
  • Book your hotel room  at the convention venue early.
  • Please email conventions@diasporanup.org after you pay the convention registration fee in order to receive an invitation letter. Registration fees are non-refundable.
  • Your registration will be processed faster if you pay on the website with a bank card.
  • If you are unable to use online payment, consider using Western Union or Moneygram to submit payment to our treasurer.
Go to a Western Union or MoneyGram money transaction center or location and transfer the applicable registration fees in US Dollars (include wire or transfer fees) to:

 

ELVIS BALIKALABA

656 Weaver Blvd

Anoka, MN 55303

Tel. +1 651 208 3354

elvis100b@gmail.com

Provide the information requested below:

Please Check the payment method you have used, and provide the requested information below via email to conventions@diasporanup.org

● Full name:
● Address:
● Phone number:
● Email:
● Form of Payment: Western Union or MoneyGram:
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Hotels & Accomodation

Join in on the fun

Previous conventions have brought people together, not only to make a difference but also connect with other like-minded people, build a community and have quite a bit of fun.

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ABOUT

Boat Cruise

This is your chance to get on board one of Chicago’s best attractions and sail the Chicago river, a tradition for all convention events. Sit back and relax with a cold drink from our fully licensed bar, as you set sail on Chicago Harbour and beautiful river.  

Expect a multitude of engaging conversations designed to help introduce you to more like-minded people all is beautiful and charming environment. This cruise is part of our convention to have some fun and see the best the city has to offer. 

Event Schedule

Arrival of Delegates
8:00 am – 2:00 pm: Offsite meetings for Ugandan delegates
Convention Leadership Meetings
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm: NUP Leadership and Convention organizing committee meeting
Empowering Leadership Training
2:00 pm – 6:00 pm: Leadership training session
Patriot’s Day Cup
7:00 pm – 11:00 pm: Soccer game between Chicago Cranes and NUP Diaspora, followed by a delightful Picnic/BBQ

Engaging the World for Democracy

8:00 am – 11:00 pm: Delegate Registration (Registration Desk, 2nd floor)

March for Democracy

8:00 am – 12:00 pm: Rally for Democracy Demonstration/Protest in Chicago

United Forces for Change Leaders Meeting

10:00 am – 12:00 pm:
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm: Lunch on your own Muslim Prayers
12:30 pm – 1:30 pm: Muslim Prayer Session

Envisioning A New Uganda

1:30 pm – 6:00 pm: Opening Ceremony and Presentation of Papers 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm: Dinner on your own
Celebrating Women’s Excellence and Achievements
7:00 pm – 10:30 pm:

Fostering Connections

10:30 pm – 1:00 am: Meet and Greet Cocktail Event

 

Building Bridges for Progress

8:00 am – 5:00 pm: Delegate Registration

Embracing the Theme

8:30 am – 9:30 am: General Session – Welcome remarks and Introduction of the Theme

Insights from Distinguished Speakers

9:30 am – 12:00 pm: Presentation by Panelists

Empowering the Youth

10:00 am – 12:00 pm: Youth Session
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm: Lunch on your own
Our Collective Vision
1:00 pm – 3:30 pm: Presentation by Ugandan Delegates 4:00 pm: Departure for Boat Cruise (Buses at the Hotel) Heroes Celebration on Waters
7:00 pm – 11:00 pm: Boat Cruise – Dinner and Entertainment

Supporting the Victims

8:00 am: Patriots Day 2k Run

Prayers for the Victims and Patriots

10:00 am – 12:00 pm: Interdenominational Prayer 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm: Lunch on your own Solidifying Our Path
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm: Annual General Meeting Culminating the Convention

4:00 pm – 2:00 am: Closing Ceremony/Banquet

Download Schedule

NUP Diaspora Team Leader

Dear Ugandans in the Diaspora, Friends of Uganda, and Delegates from Uganda, 

 It is with great pleasure and anticipation that I extend a warm invitation to each one of you for the upcoming National Unity Platform (NUP) Diaspora Convention 2024. This transformative event is scheduled to take place in the vibrant city of Chicago from August 8th to August 12th, 2024. 
 The NUP Diaspora Convention is more than just a gathering; it is a celebration of our collective efforts throughout the year in championing democracy, individual liberties, human rights, and the call for leadership change to bring an end to the 38 years of the Museveni family rule. Your unwavering commitment to this cause has been our driving force, and this convention aims to honor and amplify that commitment.  We encourage all potential attendees to register early for this pivotal event. Your timely registration will provide us with the opportunity to meticulously plan and organize an experience that surpasses all expectations. Building upon the successes of previous conventions, this year’s event promises to be even more enriching and impactful. 

 See you in Chicago, where our collective aspirations will meet the winds of change. 

 Warm regards, 
 Dr. Daniel Kawuma

Convention Organizing Committee

As the architects of the unforgettable experience awaiting you, the 2024 NUP Diaspora Convention Chicago Organizing Committee extends a warm welcome. Our dedicated team is working tirelessly to ensure a seamless and enriching event for all delegates. Get ready for an extraordinary journey in the heart of Chicago — where history meets innovation. We can’t wait to host you!

NUP Chicago Chapter Leader

Ms. Hellen Nandaula

Chicago is a city steeped in the legacy of pivotal civil rights movements and the proud home of America’s first African American President, Barack Obama. As delegates committed to fostering change in our homeland, we find no better backdrop to host our conference. The spirit of activism, mobilization, and resilience against oppression that defines Chicago’s history is a beacon, inspiring our delegates to demand change in Uganda. Welcome to Chicago, where the echoes of transformation resonate through time.

Phone +1 (518)209-6244

NUP 2024 Diaspora Convention Chairman

Mr. Godfrey Nyenje

As we approach our fourth annual convention, having convened previously in Massachusetts, California, and Washington DC, Chicago now takes the baton to continue this tradition. The convention has evolved into a crucial platform where we meticulously organize, fervently mobilize, and tenaciously agitate for change in Uganda. This event marks a celebration of our collective successes and a pivotal moment for strategic deliberations that will shape our path forward into the future.

Phone +1 (224)280-9419

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