Chanwat James

Chairperson - Kiryandongo Video Advocate (KVA)

Chanwat James is the Chairperson of Kiryandongo Video Advocate (KVA), a community-based organization in Uganda dedicated to driving social change through video advocacy within the Kiryandongo Refugee Settlement and the surrounding host community. Under Chanwat’s leadership, KVA conducts film screenings and produces advocacy videos that address pressing community issues. The organization is currently empowering refugees and host community members through training programs in four trades: liquid soap production, tailoring, hairdressing, and catering, aimed at enhancing local entrepreneurial skills and fostering self-reliance.

A passionate filmmaker, Chanwat coordinates KVA’s activities in partnership with STEPS, a South African organization that trained KVA in using film as a tool for social impact. Through his work, he combines storytelling and advocacy to highlight challenges faced by his community and inspire meaningful change. His dedication to community upliftment extends beyond his role in KVA, as he is actively involved in local business as a mobile money service provider and owner of an electrical shop in Bweyale town council.

With a deep-rooted passion for electrical work, Chanwat has been performing electrical installations in his community since 2015, using his skills to support local needs and promote safety. His commitment to both social advocacy and economic empowerment underscores his vision of a community where refugees and local residents can thrive, equipped with the tools and knowledge to build sustainable livelihoods.