Esther Winnie Kuloba, also known as Esther Marathon of CURE Run and founder of Zuriel Ushers & Events, has found her life’s purpose in using her gifts to serve communities and bring hope to those in need. Though professionally trained as a secretary, her heart has always been rooted in community service.
Growing up, Esther discovered the joy of serving through Sunday school. After high school, she found a deeper sense of belonging at Kampala Pentecostal Church (now Watoto Church), where she learnt the importance of celebrating Christ while caring for communities. This foundation would go on to shape her lifelong commitment to service.

Turning passion into community impact
Over the years, Esther has channelled her passion into impactful community initiatives. She has participated in Citywide Seed Projects, organised mass HIV/AIDS counselling and testing in her local area, and volunteered with United Way Uganda on malaria prevention initiatives. Through her involvement with Rotary, she has also contributed to efforts aimed at creating a malaria-free Uganda.

Professionally, Esther has worked with Development Initiatives International, where she provided workplace-based HIV services for informal economy workers. She has also supported initiatives in HIV/AIDS awareness, malaria prevention, and youth empowerment. These experiences have strengthened her dedication to purposeful service, community engagement, and creating lasting impact among marginalised communities.

Building a platform for young people
Her entrepreneurial journey began with Zuriel Ushers & Events, a company born out of her passion for service and her desire to empower young people. In 2018, after relocating to Mbale, eastern Uganda, without a job, Esther immersed herself in community work, supporting charity events such as the Annual Rotary Cancer Run and the Annual CURE Brain Surgery Run.

“Through these experiences, I met event organisers, decorators, and hotel staff, which sparked an idea to create a platform that could combine service with youth development,” she recalls.

From the outset, Esther envisioned Zuriel Ushers & Events as more than just a business; it would be a platform to equip young people with skills, exposure, and opportunities for self-reliance.

“It is a space where young people can grow into confident, capable adults ready to take on the world. I truly believe it is working. With more opportunities to serve at events, I can already see a positive transformation taking shape,” she says.

As a child, Esther dreamed of becoming a flight attendant, not just for the adventure, but for the opportunity to serve others. Although that dream did not materialise, the desire to make a difference never faded.

“Today, it finds expression in my work with youth and vulnerable children, turning service into opportunity, hope, and real impact,” she shares.

Leadership as service, not status
Esther views leadership as stewardship rather than authority. She focuses on mentoring, creating opportunities, and guiding her youthful team toward self-reliance.

“It is a combination of faith, resilience, and service, aiming for impact rather than recognition,” she explains.

She navigates leadership challenges through prayer, careful planning, mentorship, and staying grounded in her purpose.

“Difficult moments refine character and deepen my commitment to serving others,” she adds.

Guided by faith and purpose
One of the most impactful pieces of advice she has received comes from scripture: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters…” (Colossians 3:23–24).

“This verse reminds me to approach every task, whether at work, at home, or in service, with enthusiasm, integrity, and a heart fully committed to God. Whenever I feel discouraged, it helps me realign my focus and remember that every act of service is ultimately an act of worship,” she says.

She also draws inspiration from Rotary’s guiding themes, “Service above Self” and “Create Hope in the World,” which continue to fuel her passion for community impact.
Inspired by the music of Casting Crowns, Esther reflects on the fleeting nature of worldly achievements.

“They remind me that the kingdoms we build and the trophies we win will eventually fade. I do not seek personal fame or recognition; my desire is for my life to point to Jesus. Only His name will last forever, and that is the legacy I hope to leave,” she shares.

Witnessing impact through CURE Uganda
Through her service with CURE Uganda, Esther has witnessed firsthand the life-changing impact of compassionate care.

“The hospital performs surgeries for children with hydrocephalus and spina bifida. Beyond the operating theatre, monthly mobile clinics in Kampala, Iganga, Gulu, Lira, and Mbarara bring follow-up care closer to families who would otherwise struggle to access treatment,” she explains.

A message to young women
Her advice to young women aspiring to follow a similar path is both simple and powerful: “Feel the fear and do it anyway. Put God first in everything you do.”
Looking ahead, Esther’s vision remains clear: to create even more opportunities for young people in her community, especially those in need, and empower them to build better futures.

Tit bits
Favourite food: Kamatoore (steamed green bananas), posho with grilled meats, and kamaleya
Favourite activities: Hiking, rock climbing, and walking