Welcomed with Warmth: My First Week in Uganda with Field of Hope

From the moment the plane landed in Uganda, I was amazed at the scenery. I was immediately met with a cool breeze complemented by lush greenery. I remember riding in the car and watching the bustling city life pass by through the car window. Women walked alongside the roads in bright fabrics, with miscellaneous items carefully balanced on their heads. Of course, one of my many goals while in Uganda is to stretch myself to try the local foods. In our visit to a village in Alebtong, I found that the people there were very hospitable. They fed us fresh beans, rice, and stew chicken, along with some local foods, posho, and local vegetables. I’m very appreciative of the resources and time they sacrificed to make us feel welcome!

My first week in Uganda consisted of getting to know the Field of Hope team and exploring Lira. We had the opportunity to visit various schools and speak to the students about their projects. During our discussions, I found it very surprising how hands-on the students were able to get. Many of the tasks they did on a routine basis, deworming and selling products to market, for example, are skills that I did not gain until I enrolled in college. I was astounded to see how much responsibility each pupil held within their schools and the project. It was fascinating to see firsthand the lives that Field Of Hope is changing.

Kennedy Spiller, Tuskegee Fellow ’25

Lessons from the Road

Over the past three weeks, I’ve been fortunate to visit over a dozen of Field of Hope’s partner schools. Each visit has offered new insights, and I’ve been soaking up lessons everywhere I go. Here are just a few that have stuck with me:  

  1. A lesson in role models

What makes a great teacher?

When I think back to the best teachers from my childhood (some of whom I’m lucky to still call mentors) they were always encouraging, engaging, and passionate about sharing their knowledge. They didn’t just teach a subject; they inspired us to care about its application in the world. 

This week, I was filled with joy watching classrooms of up to 200 students light up with excitement about agriculture. Hands shot into the air to answer questions, all because their teachers had made the subject come alive. I mean, how could you not enjoy learning when you get to experience rearing a cow, and eventually eat it as part of your education?  

I never had the chance to study agriculture in high school, but watching students here in Uganda made me feel like I was back in school again, learning all the things I missed out on as a kid.  

As I walked into each school, a mix of nervousness and excitement overwhelmed me. I think about what I’ll say, whether my message will resonate with the students, and if they’ll understand my funny American accent. But more than that, I ask myself: What do I have to offer these bright students, many of whom already know more about agriculture, and maybe life, than I did at their age? 

Maybe they see us as role models based on the brief stories we share about how agriculture has touched our lives. But to me, there’s no greater role model than these young people who are curious, inspired, eager to learn, and holding onto hope for the future.  

  1. A lesson in work ethic

“Why do Americans love to work so much?”

At Field of Hope, I’ve been amazed by how committed the staff are, not just to their jobs, but to the communities they serve. They show up with joy, dedication, and a genuine desire to make a difference. Watching them, I was reminded of that old saying: When you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.

One week on the road had me exhausted enough to sleep for an entire day. So imagine my shock when Annie casually mentioned she’d been traveling nonstop for three weeks! And yet, she and the rest of the team continued to show up for us fellows with warmth and generosity, even with a million other responsibilities on their plates.

Their unwavering commitment reminded me that the most powerful community development work is the kind that’s led from within the community. And it made me reflect on my own work ethic. I hope that one day I can serve with the same energy, purpose, and heart.

  1. A lesson in communication

One of my favorite parts of traveling is the opportunity to learn something new. So far, I’ve picked up bits of a new language (Langi) and I’ve loved trying to use it as a small way to connect and show respect.

But Uganda is beautifully diverse, and just when I was getting the hang of greetings in the north, we headed to Kampala, where none of my new phrases applied!

Beyond language, every long, bumpy van ride offered its own lessons. Deep conversations and debates revealed insights about Uganda that no surface-level trip could provide. We’ve talked about everything from the cost of education to marriage customs and gender roles, and I’ve discovered that Annie just might be the funniest person I’ve ever met.

These moments remind me that human connection transcends language. Despite our differences, we are all more alike than we think. And the simplest and most powerful way to understand each other is by listening. 

Nia McLean, Fellow ’25

The Kindness of Ugandans

The story I want to share today is simple, but left a lasting impression on me – it is about holding hands.
To many, holding hands may seem like a small, ordinary gesture. But in that moment, for me, it meant everything. It was the beginning of the shift of how I saw Uganda around me. That one gentle gesture sparked a realization – from the moment I arrived in Uganda I had been surrounded with kindness.
Every building I have walked into I have been greeted with a genuine, “You are most welcome.” Every person I’ve met offers a handshake that radiates respect. Every conversation I’ve had starts with a smile that instantly puts me at ease.
In these little moments – the greetings, handshakes, and smiles, the true Ugandan hospitality shines through.
They think I am here to help them – and in many ways I am. But, what they don’t realize is how much they have helped me. They’ve helped me adjust to being away from my loved ones by offering me warmth, connection, and a sense of belonging here.
Sometimes all it takes is a warm face and a hand to hold to remind us that there is a universal language, kindness, and Uganda speaks it fluently.
   Gracie Fisher, Fellow ’25

Empowering Change: Insights from the Transformation Training Workshop

From February 2nd to 4th, 2025, Field of Hope participated in the Transformation Training Workshop at St. Gracious Palace Hotel in Lira. This impactful three-day event brought together over 60 participants from diverse sectors—NGOs, local government, education, health, business, and community work—all with the shared goal of driving transformation through self-reflection, appreciation, and problem-solving.

Led by expert facilitators from Spain and the UK, the workshop introduced dynamic training methods, including interactive skits, meditation practices, and team-building activities to equip participants with practical skills for fostering positive change in their workplaces and communities.

Key Takeaways from the Workshop

Day 1: Understanding Self & Others

The workshop kicked off with engaging skits and exercises that helped participants understand how language and perception shape interactions. Through activities focused on emotional, intellectual, and practical intelligence, attendees explored how personal awareness can enhance leadership and problem-solving.

Day 2: The Power of Appreciation & Communication

Participants learned the importance of acknowledging greatness in others—whether in workplaces, communities, or families. By practicing the “Greatness I see in your eyes” exercise and embracing “magic words” like forgiveness, gratitude, kindness, fairness, and honesty, attendees discovered how small acts of appreciation can create lasting transformation.

Day 3: Meditation & Problem-Solving

The final day introduced meditation practices using Magic Mats, a tool for cultivating positive energy, self-awareness, and clarity in decision-making. Participants reflected on how self-improvement contributes to community growth and problem-solving.

Participant Reflections

David Obong, Program Officer at Field of Hope:
“This workshop was a game-changer. It reinforced the power of positive reinforcement in the workplace. I now have ideas for training pre-service agriculture teachers to help them value their profession and agriculture as a whole.”

Walter Okullu, Country Coordinator at Field of Hope:
“The well-curated training deepened my understanding of how we can use emotional and spiritual support to turn weaknesses into strengths. Field of Hope can integrate many of these lessons into our day-to-day training for beneficiaries.”

Moving Forward: Applying Lessons Learned

As a team, Field of Hope is committed to incorporating the principles and practices from the workshop into our daily work. Key actions include:

  • Integrating appreciation exercises and magic words into team interactions and performance evaluations.
  • Applying self-reflection and meditation techniques to enhance problem-solving and leadership.
  • Strengthening communication and collaboration within our programs to better serve teachers, students, and farmers.

The Transformation Training Workshop was more than an event—it was a catalyst for personal and community growth. By embracing these lessons, we can continue our mission of empowering individuals and transforming communities through agriculture and education.

Stay connected for more updates on how we’re applying these insights!

Cherotich Tracy-Faith: A Journey of Passion and Purpose in Agriculture

My name is Cherotich Tracy Faith, and I am 21 years old, a proud Ugandan. I grew up in the far eastern region of Uganda, in Kapchorwa district, Sebei region, in a small village called Koro Kween, Kapchesiy ward, East Division, Kapchorwa Municipality.

I come from a large, loving family, raised in an extended household with my parents and relatives. My mother is a primary school teacher, and my late father was a private secondary school teacher in the arts. However, their salaries were not enough to cover all our needs, so we relied heavily on crop farming for food and school fees. As the second-born in a family of ten siblings, I learned the value of hard work, resilience, and the importance of education from an early age.

Pursuing My Passion for Agriculture

I am currently a student at Busitema University, Arapai Campus, in Soroti district, Uganda, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, specializing in crop and animal science. My love for agriculture comes from both my upbringing and my passion for making a difference in my community.

Studying at Busitema University has been an incredible experience. The hands-on practical training, engaging lecturers, and supportive academic environment make learning enjoyable. Being surrounded by like-minded students with similar dreams and goals has motivated me further. Through various student clubs and discussions, I have been able to grow academically, spiritually, and socially, shaping my vision for the future.

One of my favorite courses last semester was Rural Sociology, as it taught me how to engage with different communities, break misconceptions about agriculture, and inspire others to embrace it. Other modules, such as Computer Applications, Agricultural Economics, and Horticulture, have also deepened my knowledge and ignited a stronger passion for the field.

Dreams and Aspirations

Graduating with this degree is my greatest goal, but beyond that, I want to use my knowledge and skills to make an impact. My vision is to:

  • Start agricultural projects and enterprises that serve as learning hubs for youth.
  • Create job opportunities for young people, empowering them to become self-reliant.
  • Pursue further studies—a Master’s and Ph.D. in Agriculture—to deepen my expertise.
  • Take on leadership roles in the agricultural sector, using my skills to influence positive change.

With God as my guide, I am determined to make a difference.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Field of Hope

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Field of Hope for their unwavering support. Because of this organization, I am one step closer to achieving my dreams. I will forever be an ambassador for Field of Hope, carrying forward its mission and making you proud.

May God bless you abundantly!

Cherotich Tracy-Faith, Scholarship Recipent

Welcome Oshaba Anne to Field of Hope!

We are thrilled to introduce Oshaba Anne as the newest Program Associate for the Youth Agricultural Education pillar at Field of Hope! Oshaba’s journey with Field of Hope began in 2022 when she attended a teacher training, and she later became a dedicated volunteer. Now, we are honored to welcome her as a full-time team member.

A Passion for Agriculture Rooted in Community

Oshaba was born and raised in Bushenyi district, Western Uganda, where agriculture was a way of life. Growing up in a family that relied on farming for both food and income, she quickly developed an appreciation for the resilience and creativity of smallholder farmers. Inspired by her mother and her community’s ability to maximize limited resources, she pursued a career in agriculture education—not just as a subject, but as a calling to address the challenges farmers face.

Education & Early Career

Oshaba’s passion for agriculture was evident from an early age. While studying at St. Agnes Girls School, she became the Agriculture Club President, where she honed her leadership and teamwork skills. She then went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Vocational Studies with Agriculture and Education from Kyambogo University. During her studies, she completed two teaching practices, which introduced her to inspiring mentors who connected her to Field of Hope.

After graduating in 2022, she taught at Mukono Islamic Secondary School and Trinity High School Lugoba before officially joining Field of Hope as a volunteer in 2023. Through her volunteer work, she supported teacher training, school visits, and student empowerment programs—all of which fueled her desire to contribute even more. When the opportunity to join as a Program Associate arose, she knew it was the perfect fit!

Excitement for the Future

Oshaba is particularly excited about Field of Hope’s ISAG grant, which enhances hands-on learning for students. She also looks forward to school visits, where she can educate and inspire young minds about careers in agriculture, and the introduction of agriculture clubs in schools, which she believes will instill teamwork and leadership skills in students.

Beyond her work in education, Oshaba has a strong entrepreneurial spirit. Inspired by her family’s agricultural background, she has started a small perfume business and hopes to one day own a farm where she can implement sustainable practices to contribute to food security in her community.

Through it all, faith has been a guiding force in Oshaba’s life. She holds fast to Philippians 4:13:

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

We are beyond excited to have Oshaba on board and can’t wait to see the impact she will make!

Seeds of Hope

What an incredible journey with Field of Hope as a volunteer it has been! These past four months have reminded of how powerful it is for someone to have hope. Most especially what it means to gain back the hope and faith you had lost.

Hope is something that ignites a flame of possibilities and it is fair to say that I have witnessed hope in a few field trips that I took with the team to visit schools, farmer groups, and during different teacher trainings.

Despite coming from a different part of the country (western Uganda) with different cultures, unfortunately the culture of women being unable to support themselves financially and living in fear of what’s next is a culture we all share!, most especially in areas where women have not had a chance for education. They tend to lose hope and get consumed into early marriages, and becoming vulnerable to sexual harassment, physical and mentor gender-based violence.

However, through Field of Hope efforts, I have seen a glimmer of hope. From the few visits that I joined Joseph and Agnes to the farmers’ villages for gender equality trainings, cooperative trainings, leadership trainings, impact assessment visits, it would be fair for me to say that Field of Hope is returning a sense of hope to these women and to the community members.

A farmer being able to use good farming methods gives her hope for high yield produce, A woman learning how to save her money and use it for the right purpose for-example paying for her children’s school fees gives her hope for the future, A girl child being able to go complete her education gives her hope for independence and a voice to advocate for her rights in the society’

A woman producing her own food without going to work in someone’s garden so she could get a free meal is a win, A young girl having access to clean water and not moving a long distance in the bushes alone looking for water gives her hope for good mental health tomorrow because it reduces her vulnerability to sexual assault and exploitation.

These experiences have filled me with joy, knowing that field of hope is making a tangible difference in the lives of women and small holder farmers. The joy on their faces whenever they would be welcoming Field of hope team says it all, it reflects hope to me. a

Being directly attached to the Youth Agriculture Education pillar, I closely with the pillar head David and also joined him for school visits to do teacher evaluation and deliver career talks to students. The eagerness on students faces hoping that our presence would bring a positive chance showed me that there is need.

And speaking of hope, A teacher having enough resources to teach now hopes for a successful lesson, and his learners’ success in that specific subject. Learners having enough resources, being able to have hands on learning, they hope to understand the concept more, gives them a chance to escape classroom boredom, and gives the agriculture industry hope for having more people with practical knowledge about agriculture, thus hope for food security, sustainable agriculture and stable income.

As a Christian, I have learned that hope strengthens my faith in God, trusting in his provision, serving others with the hope of making a positive impact and giving them hope the future has been a rewarding experience

Hope and excitement about the future are very essential, we all need hope to motivate us to have faith that tomorrow will be better than today. I am grateful to God for this experience and I want to send my heartfelt gratitude to the founders, donors, and board members, and the Ugandan team of field of hope for what incredible Seeds of Hope you are sowing in Ugandan communities. God bless you!

Anne Oshaba, Volunteer

Is the Impact visible?

“Human actions have a ripple effect, just like a farmer’s planted seeds with much hope of seeing them bear fruits someday. Field of Hope plants seeds of knowledge in teachers through annual trainings. This year, I was honored to be part of this transformative journey, witnessing seeds of hope germinate and grow into fruitful results – empowering educators, shaping future leaders, and harvesting a brighter tomorrow.”

As we embarked on a two-week journey of school visits, I witnessed partnering schools, empowered by Field of Hope’s teacher training, teacher guides, and supplements, showcasing a remarkable positive impact on both teachers and students. We saw a significant change in the classroom as teachers delivered their content with confidence, utilizing the provided resources. The smiles on learners’ faces as they actively participated during lessons, sharing their views and defending their points with confidence, and yes the impact is visible

Interacting with teachers reinforced the value of Field of Hope’s interventions. One village school teacher in Luweero District expressed gratitude for the teacher guides and supplements, which helped him improve lesson planning and scheming of work. He continued to say that the visual aids, particularly diagrams in the books enabled him to effectively demonstrate concepts to students, overcoming resource limitations such as limited books and no internet. This encounter highlighted the practical benefits of Field of Hope’s support.

As we engaged with learners and sat in on their groups during lessons, we gained insight into their passion for agriculture. Their participation was exceptional, I and David sharing more about career opportunities in the agriculture sector sparked excitement as these young children of senior two were given hope of the future.

Field of Hope’s efforts and dedication have enhanced teacher confidence and effectiveness, fostered learner-centered classrooms, ignited students’ enthusiasm for agriculture, and equipped future farmers with valuable knowledge. By empowering educators and inspiring students and also giving people like me to be part of the impact as which at the end of the day warms people’s hearts and gives them hope.

Thank you to the donors and everyone who works tirelessly to make Field of Hope a success. Your seeds of hope are germinating, growing, and bearing fruit.

Oshaba Anne, volunteer

Creating a Difference: My Journey with Field of Hope

As I reflect on my experiences, I realize that creating a difference in the lives of others is the most rewarding endeavor. For me, this journey began in 2022 when I attended my first Field of Hope teacher training. Fresh from the University and stepping into the teaching profession, I was eager to make an impact. Field of Hope’s training not only answered my questions but also simplified my life as a teacher and individual.

Inspired by their mission, I made sure to replicate the difference they made in my life within my classroom and community. I then got an opportunity to volunteer with Field of Hope in 2024. This great opportunity allowed me to empower fellow teachers during the teachers training organized by field of hope. Together, we created learner-centered classrooms, fostered engaging environments that would help catch learners’ attention and improve on their interest in learning. Teachers showed interest and vowed they would apply in their classrooms.

What struck me most was Field of Hope’s generosity and dedication through provision of teaching aids and showing the teachers how to use them to create a difference in their classrooms and in the lives of the learners free of charge-this selflessness is unmatched. The teamwork and commitment of the staff are contagious and inspiring others to make a difference.

A heartfelt testimony from a fellow teacher resonated deeply: “I’m humbled by your prioritization of agriculture and retooling us as teachers. Thank you… Please extend my gratitude to the Field of Hope team and executive director. May God bless you.” This sentiment reflects the effect of Field of Hope’s work, impacting future generations.

My time at Field of Hope is providing me with has been an invaluable experience while allowing me to explore working in a different environment and learning from a team of very supportive and passionate professionals, offering me the opportunity to:

– Discover my sense of purpose and fulfillment

– Get meaningful connections through networking and mentorship

– Gain exposure to innovative approaches and best practices

– Enhance my career prospects and advancement opportunities.

I extend my sincerest appreciation to the staff, executive director, board members, and donors. Your contributions have made a great difference in Uganda, transforming lives.

As I share my story, I encourage others to join the movement. Together, we can create a wave of positive change. Consider supporting organizations like Field of Hope, whose tireless efforts shape the future.

Anne Oshaba, Volunteer

“So, How Was Uganda?”

In a couple of my previous blogs, I mentioned the importance of language in development work and international research. Whether this be introductions or using the correct terminology, the language we use to tell stories is powerful. I continue to reflect on the importance of language as I will shortly head back to the United States and get the inevitable question: So, how was Uganda?

 

It is easy to slip into an individual story narrative when asked this question, using singular language such as “I” and “me.” Yet, it was really those who accepted me into their community and shared their story that made this fellowship an impactful experience.

 

There is the story that Rachel and I shared. I bought either pineapple or watermelon from Rachel’s stand every week. Whenever I bought some fruit, Rachel would slip more watermelon into the bag with a smile and say, “this is for you.” Every time I passed her stand driving to the field or walking to the market, she would wave and say, “Hi sister!” Rachel was one of my first connections I made outside of those affiliated with Field of Hope. She made me feel at home in the Lira community.

 

Then there is the story of Barba. Barba is a young farmer from the Kwania district. On my second to last visit, she brought her maize to show me her harvest. She smiled proudly with her maize in front of her recently harvested field. She explained that before receiving agricultural extension training, when she harvested, she would just throw her maize wherever it landed, and it would get dirty. Although she’s learned many things from the training, she is most especially proud of how clean her maize is now that she knows how to properly harvest.

 

I met Reverend Tom multiple times through Leyi Naa project monitoring visits. His garden was the first one I visited in Uganda, and every time I visited, he taught me more about the crops in his garden. At our last monitoring visits, he gave me a fist bump instead of shaking hands as he explained he had just finished working in the garden. He described his hands as “farmer hands,” warming my heart as it reminded me of my own father who also has the identifiable farmer hands.

Then there is the story I share with Joseph and Agnes, who were so patient with me and encouraged my growth. At each training, Joseph would encourage me to lead the introduction, but he really was the important part of every training. He selflessly shared his knowledge with me and each group we visited.

 

When I leave Uganda, I return with countless stories of those who accepted me into their community. This experience shaped who I am as a social science researcher and global citizen. I am grateful that Field of Hope continues to invest in young people who seek global experiences. This appreciation extends to those who donate and invest their own resources into supporting Field of Hope. It is bittersweet to see my time in Uganda close, but I leave confident that Field of Hope will continue to positively impact the agricultural community in Uganda.

Meikah Dado, Fellow ’24