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A Month of Reflection + Hope in Uganda


Dear Empower & Shine Family,

 

This month feels like a really special one to reflect on.

We had the opportunity to head back to Uganda, to places and people that have become so meaningful to us, and to see in real time what happens when a dream is met with commitment, generosity, and heart.

We spent time at Shalom Junior Trust School, saw the continued progress of the Field of Dreams, delivered journals, workbooks, and pads to students across multiple communities, and came across projects like the reusable pad initiative at Lemala Wildwaters Lodge that reminded us just how important this work is.

What stood out the most is this: what starts as a simple idea or a small act does not stay small for long.

 

This month’s newsletter is really about that. How something that begins as a dream can grow into something real, something meaningful, and something that truly impacts lives.

And we are so grateful to be doing it together.

 

 



Shalom Junior Trust School: Growth We Could See

One of the most meaningful parts of this trip was returning to Shalom Junior Trust School and seeing the progress firsthand.

There is something really special about coming back and realizing that what once felt like a dream is now taking shape right in front of us. The continued growth of the Field of Dreams was incredible to see, not just because of what is being built physically, but because of what it represents for the students and the community. It is a place for play, connection, confidence, and joy. Seeing it continue to come to life was a reminder that this work truly matters.

We were also able to see the impact of the sneakers and the library, both of which are such important pieces of the bigger picture. A good pair of shoes and socks may seem simple, but for many students, it means comfort, dignity, and the ability to walk into school with confidence. This gift was made possible by Nikki and Bill, whose generosity is now quite literally walking with these students every single day.

 

The library is another beautiful reminder that opportunity comes in many forms. Thanks to Steve and Mary, who generously donated the books, students now have access to stories, knowledge, and a space that encourages learning and imagination.

 

While we were able to see so much progress during this visit, we are also looking ahead. A generous donation of $20,000 from our anonymous donor, our Sideline Angel, will go toward sports equipment for the Field of Dreams. This is something we are so excited to see come to life when we return in August.

Being back at Shalom reminded us that real impact is often built piece by piece, moment by moment, through people who care enough to keep going.

 

Beyond Shalom: Reaching More Communities

While returning to Shalom is always something special, this trip also gave us the opportunity to reach beyond and connect with other communities.

We spent time in Bweya, Nakigalala, Acholi, and Maya, where we distributed journals, workbooks, and pads directly to students.

Each stop looked a little different, but the heart behind them was the same. Making sure that children feel seen, supported, and given tools that help them move forward with confidence.

 

An Unexpected Stop, A Meaningful Discovery

This part of the trip was not planned.

Due to some unrest in the Middle East, our travel schedule shifted and we unexpectedly had a little extra time in Uganda. Instead of seeing it as a setback, we leaned into it, and it led us somewhere really special.

We made our way to Lemala Wildwaters Lodge, and while we were there, we came across their reusable pad project.

It was one of those moments where everything just clicks.

The project focuses on providing reusable sanitary pads for young girls. This may seem small, but it has a huge impact. Without access to these basic resources, many girls miss school on a regular basis. In some cases, up to 60 days a year.

Sixty days.

Seeing that up close puts everything into perspective.

Having access to something as basic as this allows girls to stay in school, participate, and move through their day with more confidence and dignity.

It also felt very aligned with the work we have already begun through our own pad distribution efforts.

More than anything, it sparked something.

We are really excited about the possibility of creating something similar. Building on what we have started and continuing to support girls in a way that is practical, meaningful, and long lasting.

Sometimes the unexpected moments end up being the most important ones.

 

With Gratitude

As we reflect on this trip, we keep coming back to one thing. None of this happens alone.

Every step forward, every project, every moment we experienced is because of a community that continues to believe in this work, support it, and be part of it in meaningful ways.

We are so grateful.

Grateful for our team on the ground in Uganda, especially Justine and Siwe Walisambi from Shalom Junior Trust School, whose leadership, heart, and dedication continue to guide so much of this work.

Grateful for Street Business School, and for Aggie Oyella, whose partnership and dedication have been instrumental in expanding our reach and impact.

And grateful for Ronald Musabe from Rangeland Safaris, who helped guide this journey and became such an important part of it along the way.

 

We are also deeply thankful for the students and communities who welcomed us so openly and allowed us to be part of their world, even for a short time.

 

We will be heading back in August, and we already know there will be so much more to see, to learn, and to celebrate.

We cannot wait to return and witness even more of these dreams come true.

 

With gratitude,

The Empower & Shine Team


 
 
 
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