Reconnecting with our Ugandan Roots
All We Are team members and dedicated supporters have recently returned from our first visit to Uganda in four years. After an extended period away, our main focus was to reconnect. This involved reconnecting with our team, our NGO and school partners, and the place that holds a special significance as our home away from home.
My journey with All We Are began during my time as an undergraduate student at the University of Cincinnati. I vividly recall my initial meeting with Nathan Thomas, which fueled my passion for international development. I was drawn to All We Are’s commitment to making a positive and lasting impact, and it seemed like a great fit for me. Little did I know that three years later, I would still be involved and would be taking my first trip with the team to the beautiful country of Uganda and meeting some of the most compassionate and humble individuals I have ever met.
Our week in Uganda was filled with activities, including school visits, meetings with headmasters, discussions with current and prospective suppliers, solar demonstrations, and lots of time for family and team bonding. The impact of COVID-19 on schools across Uganda was profound. Many schools were forced to shut down, and even after reopening, a significant number of students, especially girls, did not return to complete their education. Our visits to both existing and new partner schools shed light on the crucial role sustainable infrastructure plays in students’ education and the broader community. The savings generated through solar energy have provided opportunities for schools to construct new classrooms or dormitories for students. As Resident Director and AWA Advisor Hussein from Amity Secondary School stated, “Strong leadership and having a vision is the way to keep your school running.” We were pleased to observe that many of our partner schools had this strong leadership and clear vision in place, leading to success in the post-COVID educational landscape.
As our trip drew to a close, the team dedicated the last full day to visiting the Butambala District, where All We Are has successfully completed 26 solar installations, including three water wells. Joining the villagers in their daily task of carrying water was a transformative experience for us all. It served as a reminder of the many things we often take for granted in life. To conclude the day, we shared in a joyous celebration with local schools. We danced, laughed, ate delicious food, and cherished every moment we were able to share with the students and staff.
Our team left Uganda feeling humbled and recommitted to our mission! We are eager for the opportunities ahead. We are grateful for the relationships we have built during this trip and look forward to continuing to build this partnership for years to come! This experience has truly been a highlight of the year for me. Despite being in the country for only a few days, I left feeling deeply connected and engaged in our work. I’m beyond appreciative to be a part of the All We Are community!
Join us in our mission to bring sustainable energy to communities in Uganda! Your support can make a significant impact. Donate today and brighten up the world with us.
With gratitude,
Lexi Brown
Marketing Team Member
