TMS Ruge was born in Masindi, Uganda and grew up in Uganda, Kenya and the US. Capitalizing on his understanding of different cultures and markets, Ruge has become a successful global social entrepreneur.
Through Project Diaspora—an organization he co-founded in 2007 to motivate, engage and mobilize the African Diaspora to take an active role in Africa’s development—he runs an indigenous farmers’ business (UMPG) in Masindi and advises a women’s jewelry making co-operative (Women of Kireka) in Kampala.

A technology enthusiast, Ruge has written and spoken extensively on the need to invest in Africa’s ICT sector. Ruge also runs a photography and web design business. He graduated with a Bachelors in Communication Design from the University of North Texas.