By Rhoda Musiima

Maya Angelou was right: “Your legacy is every life you’ve touched.”

Frank Muthusi touched CoCREATE Advertising.

The man was never fazed by the fact that we were competing agencies. All Frank saw were young creatives chasing their dreams. He cheered us on full throttle and never held back from sharing insights, nuggets, and words of wisdom.

We called him the “man with the black beard” 😂—that was Frank’s nickname. Every time he walked into our office, he greeted every single person with a fist bump—”How are you doing?” Then he’d move on to hug those he knew a little better. To Frank, it was all about human-to-human connection—no titles, no gimmicks.

Frank Muthusi’s aura filled our office every time he was around. It was magical; we could all tell when the “man with the black beard” was in the building.

After the opening prayer in Silverback Award meetings, he always asked, “What are we doing today? Rhoda, what is our digital strategy? Job, where are we with the creative assets? Nicole, what’s happening with the website?” Frank led us with charisma, empathy, and kindness.

Whenever we pitched for Silverback Awards sponsorship, he asked us, “What’s the worst that can happen? Just call that person.” This taught us to be brave.

Frank’s humility was admirable. Even as Group CEO fireworks Advertising (U) Limited and Uganda Advertising Association Chairman, he was perfectly comfortable with the samosas, pancakes, and Minute Maid we enjoyed during our meetings. He asked for no special treatment—such a modest leader.

To us at CoCreate, you were a cheerleader, a mentor, and a great friend. Thank you for sharing your light with us and touching our lives.

Gone but never forgotten. Till we meet again, friend. Thank you for leaving your mark.

The writer is a Digital Marketer, PR guru and Events expert.