Samuel Byalugaba
Samuel Jerome Byalugaba (born January 14) is a Tanzanian businessman, investor, philanthropist, and business contractor best known for co-founding the diversified company TSJ Diversified Group in Tanzania with his childhood friend Sylvester Mayaya. At TSJ Diversified Group, Samuel served as Co-President and Chief Operating Officer.
Born in Njombe, Tanzania, Samuel co-founded TSJ Diversified Group in Dar es Salaam in 2021. He led the company as President and Chief Operating Officer until stepping down as President in February 2024. He remains the company's Chief Operating Officer. Since middle school, Samuel has been passionate about volunteering. He has volunteered for various government and non-government organizations working towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Tanzania. These organizations include the East African Community (EAC), Rotary International, the United Nations (UN), the Femina Hip (FEMA), the Natalia Foundation, Nutricare Healthmax Organization (NHO), and the Greg Organization. His passion for leadership was evident in his middle school years, where he held various leadership positions in student government and student organizations focused on the SDGs. These included serving as the Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy and the General Secretary of the UN Club and EAC Club, and later becoming Chairperson of the EAC Club, all at Azania Secondary School.
Early Life and Education
Samuel Jerome Byalugaba was born on January 14, in the early 2000s, in Njombe, Tanzania. The youngest of three children and the only son of Jerome Byalugaba and Mary Byalugaba, his early education began at Valentine Pre & Primary School in Dar es Salaam.
His family's mobility during his childhood shaped his school experiences. Following his father's relocation to Makambako, Iringa, Samuel completed grades one and two there. Another family move brought him to Mbeya, where he started grade three at Halengo Primary School. He then moved again to Kibaha and completed grade four at Kambarage Primary School. Finally, the family returned to Dar es Salaam, where Samuel graduated from primary school at Bajeviro Primary School.
It was during his primary school years that Samuel and Sylvester, his future co-founder of TSJ Diversified Group, discovered a shared passion for technology. Their early interest manifested in an attempt to create a mini electric vehicle, though limited resources prevented its success.
After graduating primary school, Samuel pursued scientific studies at Azania Secondary School. During his first year (Grade 8), he founded his first tech organization, Samsway TZ. Focusing on providing online tech solutions, Samsway TZ offered various "how-to" content. The name "Samsway," as explained in one of Samuel's articles, combines "Samuel" and "Way," signifying "Ways of Samuel in Tanzania." The organization later expanded its scope to include charity activities, partnering with organizations like the Natalia Foundation and Nutricare Healthmax Organization (NHO).
In addition to his charitable endeavors, Samuel further diversified his interests during grade eleven by venturing into the news media industry. He launched a schools magazine, allowing schools to share newsletters with the public and students. This project gained him recognition across various schools, earning him the nickname "The CEO". In one of his interview, he humorously remarked that while people might not recognize him by name, everyone would know him as "The CEO."
While in his final year (Grade 12), Samuel explored the fashion industry by briefly modeling with Africax Modeling Management. However, he soon realized modeling wasn't his calling and transitioned to a production manager role within the same agency.
Following his secondary school graduation, Samuel continued his education at the College of Business Education, pursuing a Diploma in Business Administration. While enrolled there, he also actively expanded his knowledge by taking various online short courses like Financial Modeling and Valuation Analysis (FMVA), Business Intelligence and Data Analysis (BIDA), Full Stack Web and Software Development, and Digital Marketing and Social Management.
Career
Samuel embarked on his educational journey in 2020 at the Collage of Business Education, where he pursued a diploma in Business Education. Building on this foundation, he further honed his skills in Financial Modeling and Valuation Analysis through the Corporate Finance Institute in 2022. It was during his educational pursuits in 2021 that Samuel, alongside his friend Sylvester Mayaya, ventured into entrepreneurship by founding TSJ Diversified Group. This multifaceted company specializes in Digital Marketing, IT Solutions, Video Gaming, and investments spanning agriculture, real estate, and energy sectors.
In addition to his entrepreneurial endeavors, Samuel is a dedicated business contractor with a passion for aiding businesses in growth and enhancing their digital presence. His comprehensive range of services includes business consultancy, financial analysis and planning, data analysis, marketing strategy, project development and management, as well as website development and maintenance.
Personal Life
In his personal life, Samuel Byalugaba is characterized by his commitment to professional excellence and his drive to make a positive impact in the business world. Beyond his entrepreneurial and contracting pursuits, Samuel enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring new cultures, and staying active through sports and outdoor activities. His ambition, coupled with his altruistic nature, fuels his ongoing quest to innovate and contribute to the success of businesses and communities alike.
