Since our last update, spring has arrived, bringing with it warmer days and a wealth of exciting developments at Action in Africa. Our dedicated teams on both sides of the Atlantic have been diligently focused on enhancing operations and refining communication channels to better serve our cherished Nakuwadde community. In Uganda, we are thrilled to report that David Masiko, our newly appointed Country Director introduced in our previous newsletter, has seamlessly assumed his role and hit the ground running. Leading our on-the-ground team of 17 individuals, David has been instrumental in orienting five new university interns, expanding our staff through new hires, and even officiating a memorable Spelling Bee event.
Meanwhile, our efforts in the United States have been directed towards planning an array of exciting initiatives for the year ahead. From hosting our inaugural Pickleball Tournament to organizing our Annual Winter Fundraiser, we have a multitude of thrilling opportunities for you to engage with us and support our programs. Read further to discover how you can get involved and make a meaningful difference.
Over the past few weeks, we've been immersed in a whirlwind of excitement. In April, the students from AIA's three Primary Partnership SchoolsβVision Primary School, Victorious Primary School, and Step by Step Primary Schoolβshowcased their exceptional spelling prowess in a spirited spelling bee. We're delighted to introduce you to our brilliant and utterly charming winner, Ishan Buyondo, who proudly displays his well-deserved first-place trophy.
Moreover, our secondary students at Mbazzi School were actively engaged in a dynamic exhibition featuring life skills training facilitated by SAWA WORLD. The event brought forth an incredible showcase of talent and practical knowledge, empowering these young individuals with the skills and tools they need to forge a prosperous future.
The students eagerly embraced a wide array of trade-influenced skills. They delved into the intricacies of bottle decorating, poultry farming, the art of crafting liquid and herbal soaps, as well as the craftsmanship involved in creating bags and sandals from leather. In addition, they gained valuable insights into urban farming practices, further broadening their knowledge and skill set.
We are ecstatic about the multitude of enriching programs that Mbazzi School offers to our students. These diverse learning opportunities empower them to explore their interests, develop practical skills, and cultivate a strong foundation for future success.
In a remarkable display of creativity and determination, 34 members of our Women to Women program united to embark on an exciting journey of learning. Led by the talented Tushe Mary, the women enthusiastically immersed themselves in the art of crafting paper necklaces and weaving intricate small baskets. The session served as a catalyst for empowering these women, equipping them with newfound skills and igniting their entrepreneurial spirit.
Our ultimate aim is to empower these women to embrace and further develop their creative abilities, both within the comfort of their own homes and potentially beyond. By nurturing their talents, we hope to pave the way for them to explore entrepreneurial opportunities, possibly even establishing their own successful businesses. Together, we are creating a supportive environment where dreams can flourish and futures can be transformed.
Here in the US, we're always looking to create ways for our US community to be engaged with our work, and we've come up with a whole roster of exciting events to look forward to this year. From an inaugural pickleball tournament to our annual winter fundraiser, we have no shortage of fun ways to be involved! More on that in the coming months.
And for a super easy way to support AIA, look no further than our Amazon Wishlist! With kids in school and programs in full swing, we're always in need to school supplies.
In fact, Sarah & Amber are headed to Uganda next week and there's still time to send them some items to bring to Uganda. From books to markers and pens, there's no shortage of items on the list!
By supporting Action in Africa, you are helping us serve the children, women, and schools we work with in Uganda. Consider making a one-time or monthly tax-deductible contribution with the link below. Thank you!