Two football players in action during a match at the Kanta Football Tournament, wearing branded kits sponsored by Newman's.

On October 26, 1996, Manchester United took on Southampton, and it was in this game that David Beckham scored the very first direct free kick of his senior career. For many, that first strike was brushed off as luck. But over the years, he would go on to score over 60 direct free kicks, solidifying his place as one of the most consistent set-piece specialists in football history. As that consistency unfolded season after season, it was no longer seen as luck or coincidence—it was recognized for what it truly was: pure talent.

Consistency is what transforms an action from mere coincidence into a deliberate habit.

In the world of corporate business, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) often suffers from the same initial skepticism. Many brands undertake a single community project, take photos for the moment for their social media and then quickly disappear. Without continuity, those single moments feel less like a true commitment and more like a random decision by a generous executive clearing a quick budget on a good day.

The only true proof that giving back is woven into the soul of a brand is sustained consistency.

A few weeks ago, Lapatutu Writing Creations partnered with Newman’s for the Grand Finale of the Lapatutu Letter Writing Competition at Nakiwogo Primary School. When we first shared the proposal with them, they readily embraced the opportunity to support an initiative promoting literacy and environmental responsibility among the pupils.

True to their word, they delivered high-quality school bags and pens for the competition winners. To top it all off, they brought their signature flavored crisps for every single pupil present. They transformed a simple school assembly into a milestone event that made every child feel seen, valued, and celebrated as writers.

Winners of the Lapatutu Letter Writing Competition at Nakiwogo Primary School
The winners of the Lapatutu Letter Writing Competition, proudly showing off their new bags provided by Newman’s.

Observing the genuine warmth they brought to those young writers prompted us to look deeper into their history with youth engagement. What we found was a long, undeniable trail of showing up for the next generation.

Take, for instance, the Uganda Muslim Teachers’ Association (UMTA) Super Challenge at Kawempe Muslim Secondary School. Students gathered for a fierce battle of wits and words, demonstrating the sharp intellect and confidence of the country’s rising debaters. Newman’s was right there on the ground, keeping these young scholars fueled with their signature snacks between rounds and providing the steady support needed to transform a standard tournament into a memorable platform for future leaders.

Champions of words and intellect. Student debaters pose with their trophy and certificate at the UMTA Super Challenge, supported by Newman’s.

Football is the world’s most popular sport—no wonder we started with a Beckham reference! Here in Uganda, it remains one of the best outlets for young people to direct their energy positively. Newman’s has recognized this by serving as a foundational partner of the Kanta Football Tournament—which brings together teams across Kampala and Wakiso—for over eight years. (The cover photo at the top of this article captures the high-energy action on the pitch from last year’s tournament). By providing full kits, trophies, and direct support for more than 30 youth teams season after season, they have ensured that hundreds of young players step onto the pitch with dignity and purpose.

Still in line with sports, community marathons have become a powerful way to bring people together for a cause. A clear example is the Al-Salam Ramadhan Charity Run at Lugogo, which mobilizes runners to fund Iftar meals for families preparing for the Holy Month. Earlier this year, Newman’s joined as an official sponsor, standing behind an initiative that directly touches young people—who make up the majority of both the participants on the pavement and the communities receiving support.

A stage group photo from the Al-Salam Ramadhan Charity Run featuring organizers and participants in green run shirts. At the center of the stage is a prominent display podium featuring Newman’s Gonja Crisps with the tagline "Taste the Magic!" as team members applaud and pose behind a white event flag.
On stage at the Al-Salam Ramadhan Charity Run at Lugogo, celebrating a successful run for humanity with Newman’s.

When it comes to entertainment, young people have an almost natural inclination toward where the energy, crowd, and music are. The real challenge—and responsibility—is ensuring they have safe, positive spaces to channel that passion without compromising their well-being.

Newman’s has stepped in here too, consistently supporting initiatives like the Teenz Kulture Fest—an annual festival that brings together teens from across the country for music, creative arts, and peer mentorship. By backing these youth-led gatherings, they help provide a vibrant platform where teenagers can showcase their talents, build confidence, and express themselves responsibly alongside their peers.

Festival vibes at Teenz Kulture Fest, with Newman’s keeping the energy high among the crowd.

These are only a handful of the initiatives Newman’s has backed, but when you connect the dots, a clear picture emerges. Uplifting young people is not an afterthought or a one-time campaign for them. It is an intrinsic part of who they are.

Just like Beckham’s free kicks, their commitment to young people isn’t a moment of luck. It is a testament to consistency, deeply embedded in the brand’s DNA to leave a lasting impact across Uganda.

We take this moment to honor Newman’s for their dedication and commitment to ensuring that Uganda’s next generation is guided along the right path. This is a brand worth standing behind. So next time you reach for a snack—whether it’s crisps, popcorn, hard corn, or baggia—consider picking up Newman’s.

One response to “Newman’s Youth Legacy in Uganda”

  1. Michelle Akello Avatar
    Michelle Akello

    Newman’s really is a powerhouse for doing this. I’ll be keeping an eye out for these runs.

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Quote of the month

Of course AI can write for you. Just like most people can run a marathon or play football—but most people aren’t Eliud Kipchoge or Bukayo Saka. In much the same way, AI can write for you.

~ William Kyeyune

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