In the heart of Kampala’s exclusive Mbuya Hill, under the warm glow of curated lighting and the soothing melodies of a live violinist, Uganda’s young business elite gathered for a night that fused ambition, luxury, and legacy. But this wasn’t just another cocktail affair. It was the first 2025 experience of the Johnnie Walker Blue Club, and its host—entrepreneur and Volve Global Ltd Managing Director, Dean Munene—was ready to set a new tone.
With an invitation-only guest list featuring some of the country’s most promising trailblazers in finance, tech, real estate, and the creative sector, the Blue Club evening signaled a shift. From a traditional celebration of fine whisky and rare taste, the event evolved into something more: a living room for future power players.
From the moment guests arrived, it was clear this wasn’t business as usual. Valets smoothly took over parking duties while inside, guests were welcomed into an exquisitely styled setting. A live violinist played in the background, setting the tone for an evening of class and connection. Whisky mentors guided guests through a thoughtfully curated tasting experience, pouring Johnnie Walker Blue Label alongside rare single malts like Glenkinchie and Talisker—each sip unlocking stories of legacy and craftsmanship.
Yet it was more than the taste of fine whisky that lingered. It was the sense of purpose and community in the air—anchored by the man at the centre of it all.
“When I was asked to host the Blue Club, I thought, finally, a good excuse to wear a blazer and sip some exceptional whisky with exceptional people,” Dean shared during his heartfelt address. “But beyond the style and the whisky, tonight means something deeper. Tonight is about building a bigger community and legacy with intentional people such as yourselves.”
For Dean, the moment was both personal and symbolic—a reflection of his journey and the shared aspirations of his peers.
“Hosting the first Blue Club of 2025 is more than a personal milestone, it’s a celebration of everyone in this room. So, here’s to the risk-takers, the trailblazers, the ones rewriting the rules. Keep walking, and may your next step be your boldest yet,” he added.
This new Blue Club chapter resonated deeply with the event’s partners at Uganda Breweries Limited (UBL), who have consistently positioned the brand as more than just a beverage—it’s a statement of identity and intent.
“The Blue Club isn’t just a celebration of whisky; it’s a convergence of rare character and visionary thinking. We’re proud to lead this new era of leadership, welcoming Uganda’s next generation of movers and shakers into a space that honours ambition, legacy, and refined taste,” said Christine Kyokunda, Brand Manager Scotch & Reserve at UBL.
The Blue Club, under this refreshed vision, has become a space where elegance meets enterprise—a sentiment echoed by Catherine Ndungu, UBL’s Marketing and Innovations Director.
“Today, luxury is about more than what’s in the glass, it’s about the energy in the room and the stories being shared. The Blue Club is where timeless elegance meets forward-thinking innovation, and where influence is shaped through connection.”
Where Easter Comes to Life: A Wholesome Family Getaway at Speke Resort MunyonyoThat influence is also being backed by innovation. During the evening, Emmy Hashakimana, UBL’s Commercial Director (representing the Managing Director, Andrew Kilonzo), introduced an initiative that speaks directly to this emerging class of connoisseurs—the Direct-to-End-User (DTEU) program.
“This is our strategy to cut through the clutter, to place premium whisky into premium hands, just like yours, in the most seamless, curated way possible. We want to ensure convenient access to personalised bottles, gifting experiences, and private tastings, delivered directly with the care and ceremony that Johnnie Walker deserves,” Hashakimana explained.
He also applauded Dean for his partnership and brand-building acumen, describing him as “a partner, a brand builder, and a key player” in connecting UBL’s premium offerings with the right audiences.
Adding gravitas to the event was the presence of Rachael Dumba, a UBL board member, further underlining the strategic importance UBL places on such curated experiences.
And then came the music. As the whisky flowed and the night grew deeper, Selector Jay took over the decks, seamlessly transitioning the event from quiet elegance to full-on celebration. Conversations evolved into shared laughter, toasts were raised, and new bonds were formed.
But beyond the music and the whisky, one message stood tall: this wasn’t just a party—it was a statement.
The Johnnie Walker Blue Club is boldly evolving, expanding its reach and giving a platform to younger, accomplished individuals to share their bold strides and shape the future of influence.
Membership, it seems, is no longer just exclusive.
It’s essential.