Empowered to lead, grow, and transform: My journey with the Marshal Papworth Program 2025

Earlier this year, I was blessed with an incredible opportunity, thanks to Hands Around the World (a Field of Hope partner), in partnership with the Marshal Papworth Fund (MPF), to take part in the 2025 MPF short course program. What I thought would be just a training quickly turned into something much deeper: a journey of empowerment, growth, and hope.

This program brought together 16 participants from 6 African countries to the UK, each of us passionate about agriculture and eager to create change in our communities. The curriculum was rich and practical, covering everything from crop and livestock management to agribusiness training, leadership development, and community engagement. What made MPF unique was the perfect balance between hands-on fieldwork and in-depth classroom sessions as admistered by Harper Adams University top-notch lecturers in their state of the art learning facilities. Whether it was soil health, mechanization, post-harvest handling, or market engagement, every lesson spoke directly to the realities farmers face daily.

 

But what touched me most were the sessions on leadership and mindset transformation. These moments stretched us beyond technical skills and challenged us to see ourselves as visionaries, change agents, and servant leaders.

“For me, this wasn’t just training, it was a call to lead with purpose and courage.”

I came away not only learning but also leading. The sessions on project management, group dynamics, and organizational leadership inspired bold visions in all of us. Some of my fellow participants have already started demonstration farms, savings groups, and farmer-led cooperatives. Personally, I am focusing on reducing post-harvest losses among smallholder farmers by promoting hermetic storage technologies and other innovative solutions among other ideas to transfer to the farmers. Seeing these efforts already sparking change at the grassroots level makes me hopeful for the future.

This resonates so strongly with Field of Hope’s mission of equipping leaders to lift their communities through agriculture and faith. Through this program, I experienced that mission firsthand, igniting in me both an entrepreneurial spirit and a servant-leadership mindset.

Another turning point for me was how the program shifted my view of agribusiness. Like many, I once saw farming mainly as survival. The MPF program opened my eyes to farming as a business, a source of income, sustainability, and community transformation. Concepts like value addition, global marketing strategies, and business planning hit home for me, and now I see my community not just as farmers but as entrepreneurs capable of driving innovation and creating jobs.

Perhaps the most beautiful outcome, however, was the friendships and networks we built. Despite coming from different regions, we shared the same struggles and dreams. Today, those connections are blossoming into collaborations, support systems, and lasting bonds that remind me that transformation is never a solo journey, it thrives in community.

Beyond the Classroom: Experiences in the UK

Alongside the classroom and fieldwork, the program also gave us remarkable opportunities to immerse ourselves in the history, culture, and innovation of the United Kingdom.

One highlight was attending and presenting at the Lincolnshire Agricultural Trade Show, where we engaged with farmers, agribusinesses, and innovators from across the UK. Sharing perspectives from Africa while learning about cutting-edge technologies was truly inspiring, it reinforced the global nature of agriculture and the possibilities that come with collaboration.

We also had the joy of experiencing the periodic string musical extravaganza, performed by incredible crews in their 70s and beyond. Watching them play with such energy and passion reminded me that age is no barrier to creativity, joy, and lifelong learning.

Of course, we explored the UK’s rich cultural and historical landmarks. In London, we toured Buckingham Palace, London Bridge, the Tower of London, Parliament Square, Westminster Abbey, the UK Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, Big Ben, and St. James Park. We also visited the Iron Gorge and the Black Country, places steeped in industrial history that shaped modern society.

And as a football fan, visiting legendary stadiums was a dream come true; Old Trafford (Manchester United), Etihad Stadium (Manchester City), Molineux (Wolves F.C), St. Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park (Birmingham City F.C) and, most importantly, as a proud Arsenal fan, stepping into the Emirates Stadium was an unforgettable moment!

The journey culminated in a moving graduation ceremony, officiated by the Vice-Chancellor of Harper Adams University, with the presence of MPF leaders and program partners. Standing on that stage, surrounded by fellow participants and supporters, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and responsibility. It was more than just receiving a certificate, it was a commissioning to return home and lead with courage, innovation, and faith.

Looking ahead: Sustaining the momentum

As I reflect, three key lessons stand out for me:

  • Context matters; training that speaks to our local realities is more effective.
  • Peer learning is powerful; we grow faster when we learn together.
  • Ongoing support is vital; mentorship and opportunities for growth sustain impact.

I am deeply grateful to the Marshal Papworth Foundation, Harper Adams University, Hands Around the World and Field of Hope for believing in leaders like me and investing in our future. This experience proved to me that when agricultural training is combined with leadership development, cultural exchange, and spiritual growth, the result is more than just improved harvests, it’s a true harvest of hope.

 

Walter Okullu,

2025 MPF scholar

 

Rooted in Uganda: Lessons in Agriculture and Connection

My time at Field of Hope this summer was nothing short of amazing. It was a long-awaited opportunity to experience Africa, and Uganda proved to be the perfect place. Field of Hope provided me with a space to immerse myself in Ugandan food, culture, and language, all while contributing to meaningful agricultural development and forming lasting connections with the local community.

While in Lira, I was assigned to work with Tom Anyii at TAF Assured Mixed Farm. TAF is comprised of 3 different farms, each highlighting different sustainable agricultural practices. Tom was inspired to revitalize his farm by making the most of his land after a conference visit to the Netherlands. In the mornings, I started work on the agrotourism farm where I learned how to manage a successful livestock operation. In addition, I was also learning the local names of various staple crops, such as buga (eggplant) and nywagi (maize). Every day, I was welcomed by Tom and his team with bright smiles and the local greeting (Itye ningo?).

Annually, Uganda produces up to 200,000 metric tons of honey. Strong demand for bee products, combined with low startup costs, makes apiary farming a popular and profitable business in Uganda. As TAF stands for Training Apiary Farmers, Tom saw beehives as a perfect way to utilize his land. Much of my time was dedicated to constructing the TAF improved beehive. In Uganda, traditional beehives were stored high in trees and took on a cylindrical shape. This posed an issue for the safety of women, as it is conventional in Lira for women to wear skirts, as well as children, who may not have been able to reach. Tom’s dedication to increasing opportunities for women and children inspired him to create the TAF improved beehive. These beehives have a semicylinder shape and are placed on welded metal legs, about 3 feet high. Additionally, the tree used in the improved beehives is more durable and has a longer life span of 25-30 years.

When I wasn’t working on the beehives or the agrotourism farm, I spent time with Tom’s eldest daughter, Winnie. Winnie and I got along very well, and it was through her that I learned much about women’s roles in Uganda. I dedicated a considerable amount of time assisting her with her black soldier fly operation- an innovative practice I had never heard of until meeting her. Black soldier flies play a vital role in reducing animal waste and enhancing soil health. Once more, I was exposed to another unique agricultural method, further expanding my perspective and growth as a future educator in agriculture.

During my international education experience, I grew extremely close to all the staff. As a tribute to the meaningful connections I made, I planted a memorial mango tree on the agrotourism farm and named it Atudu- the Lango name for duck! – Kiwi. I am deeply grateful for my experience with Field of Hope and TAF. This exposure has significantly broadened my understanding of agriculture. Through this experience, I have gained insight into smallholder entrepreneurship in Uganda, gender equality initiatives, sustainable farming practices, and ongoing efforts to decrease poverty and enhance food security.

Kennedy Spiller, Tuskegee Fellow ’25

Resource Mobilization Mastery: Crafting compelling Grant proposals for FOH

From April 9th to 11th, 2025, the Field of Hope team embarked on a comprehensive three-day training aimed at strengthening their skills in resource mobilization and grant management. Comprising five dedicated staff members, the training was meticulously designed to equip the organization with the tools necessary to identify funding opportunities, develop impactful proposals, and manage funded projects effectively. This highly impactful training was designed and conducted by a team of consultants i.e Joanita and Arafa, who have worked in this space for over 10 years.

The training’s core purpose was to build the capacity of Field of Hope staff to navigate the full cycle of resource mobilization—from spotting potential funding sources to ensuring successful project implementation and sustainability. The key objectives included improving the team’s ability to:

Identify and assess funding opportunities, enhance proposal writing skills, develop a clear Theory of Change (TOC) and logical frameworks and align proposals with donor interests, National Development Plan and Sustainable Development Goals.


To maximize engagement and learning, the training employed active learning techniques such as Presentations: PowerPoint-based sessions provided foundational knowledge, group Exercises: participants collaborated and presented findings to foster teamwork and case study analyses: hypothetical scenarios were examined to apply concepts practically and improve problem-solving skills.

 

Day One: Foundations of Resource Mobilization

Being the first day, it started on a relatively slow note, with God’s presence beig called amidst us, short remarks from the leadership, followed by introductions from both Field of Hope and AVSI teams. Participants shared their expectations, primarily focusing on understanding the process of resource mobilization and where to find grant opportunities. The team explored why mobilizing resources is vital—impact expansion and organizational sustainability being top reasons.

A self-assessment using the Organization Capacity Assessment Tool (OCAT) emphasized the importance of having a strategic plan, organizational policies, and policies on child protection, gender balance, and security—all critical for donor confidence. The day also covered donor landscape analysis, resource mapping, and building strong relationships with partners.

 

Day Two: Project Planning and Proposal Development Day two focused on problem analysis, with an emphasis on community participation in identifying issues. The team learned how to use solution tree analysis to address challenges, such as farmers’ lack of access to markets, by examining root causes.

The session introduced the Theory of Change (TOC) and Logical Framework (Log Frame) as tools for strategic planning and monitoring. Participants were encouraged to align proposals with National and Sustainable Development Goals, and to leverage survey data and statistics for evidence-based proposals.

 

Day Three: Proposal Writing and Donor Readiness The final day concentrated on crafting compelling proposals. Trainers outlined the essential elements—problem statements, goals, objectives, budgets, and work plans—and stressed the importance of tailoring language to meet donor expectations.

Participants also explored various grant application platforms like ENABEL and NORAD, learning the step-by-step process of applying for funding and the importance of proper documentation, including CVs, policies, and strategic plans.

 

Key Takeaways and Future Steps

The training culminated in several actionable recommendations such as to establish a dedicated Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) unit, develop and update strategic and Theory of Change documents regularly, formalize procurement, financial, and data protection policies, increase engagement with donors through participation in coordination meetings and create a resource mobilization strategy aligned with organizational interventions.

The team will stay in contact with facilitators for ongoing support, including developing a TOC for upcoming funding opportunities like NORAD. A follow-up workshop is planned to reinforce skills and address any remaining gaps.

 

This intensive training has significantly boosted Field of Hope’s capacity to mobilize resources effectively, develop quality proposals, and manage grants successfully. Strengthening these skills is a strategic step towards ensuring the organization’s sustainability and expanding its impact within the communities it serves.

 

We therefore take this opportunity to thank Field of Hope donors and management for investing in its staff as a way to create a sustainable pathway to advacing its mission.

 

God bless you all.

 

Walter Okullu, Country Coordinator

Familiar

It feels like I’ve been here before.

The caw of the rooster waking you up;

The organized chaos of the traffic;

The smell of dust is sweet to me.

I can feel the Earth beneath my feet;

I can see the stars.

I can taste the sweetness of the fruit;

I can hear myself think.

It’s so nourishing,

The connection with the Earth.

When I stand, I’m rooted,

And when I fall, I feel welcome.

They tell us dreams are made

In a concrete jungle,

But concrete is made.

The Jungle is.

Is paradise really white and smooth?

Is it like a diamond, lustrous and bright?

Or is it green and brown and natural,

Like the Jungle where diamonds are from?

Reuben Miree, Tuskegee Fellow ’25

How One Walk Brought Water to Three Villages

Let’s play a little game.

Go to your sink. Turn the faucet on. Fill a glass.

Now imagine if you had to walk six kilometers (about 3.7 miles) just to make that glass of water happen. Not once, but several times a day.

That’s the reality for many people in northern rural Uganda. But thanks to your steps—yep, you, the one who walked the Walk for Women 6K this spring—1800 people no longer have to make that daily trek.

In June, Field of Hope completed a deep borehole well project in Alebtong District, Uganda. And the story of how it came to be is one of generosity, grit, and gallons—lots of them.

Back in May, 127 of you laced up your shoes and hit your sidewalks, trails, and treadmills to stand in solidarity with the women who walk each day for water. Together, you raised $56,684—not just with your feet, but with your hearts, your voices, and your social media feeds.

That walk turned into a fully completed borehole that now connects three villages, bringing clean water to more than 1800 people. For some, that means drinking water that’s safer and more reliable. For others—like one woman who used to have to pay young girls to gather water because of physical limitations—it means saving the income she works so hard to earn, and gaining a new sense of independence.

The average American uses almost 100 gallons of water per day. In Alebtong, before this borehole? Some families were using just a few liters, rationed carefully between drinking, cooking, washing, and farming.

With this new well, life looks different. Girls have more time for school. Mothers are safer walking shorter distances. The clean water from this well will reduce waterborne illness and will improve crop irrigation. It is this kind of project that will ripple for generations.

While the borehole is a huge step forward, we’re not done. Field of Hope is working on a WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) curriculum to build on this infrastructure with education that changes behaviors and deepens impact. Think about: lessons on safe storage, hygiene habits, and community care of shared water points.

Plus, we’re already dreaming about future well projects—because no one should have to choose between water and safety, water and school, water and work.

Whether you walked 6K, donated, or simply cheered someone on, know this: you were part of something transformational.

Water is life. And because of you, water is flowing in the Alebtong District.

Olivia Murphy-Sweet, Executive Director, Field of Hope

How One Walk Brought Water to Three Villages

Let’s play a little game.

Go to your sink. Turn the faucet on. Fill a glass.

Now imagine if you had to walk six kilometers (about 3.7 miles) just to make that glass of water happen. Not once, but several times a day.

That’s the reality for many people in northern rural Uganda. But thanks to your steps—yep, you, the one who walked the Walk for Women 6K this spring—1800 people no longer have to make that daily trek.

In June, Field of Hope completed a deep borehole well project in Alebtong District, Uganda. And the story of how it came to be is one of generosity, grit, and gallons—lots of them.

Back in May, 127 of you laced up your shoes and hit your sidewalks, trails, and treadmills to stand in solidarity with the women who walk each day for water. Together, you raised $56,684—not just with your feet, but with your hearts, your voices, and your social media feeds.

That walk turned into a fully completed borehole that now connects three villages, bringing clean water to more than 1800 people. For some, that means drinking water that’s safer and more reliable. For others—like one woman who used to have to pay young girls to gather water because of physical limitations—it means saving the income she works so hard to earn, and gaining a new sense of independence.

The average American uses almost 100 gallons of water per day. In Alebtong, before this borehole? Some families were using just a few liters, rationed carefully between drinking, cooking, washing, and farming.

With this new well, life looks different. Girls have more time for school. Mothers are safer walking shorter distances. The clean water from this well will reduce waterborne illness and will improve crop irrigation. It is this kind of project that will ripple for generations.

While the borehole is a huge step forward, we’re not done. Field of Hope is working on a WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) curriculum to build on this infrastructure with education that changes behaviors and deepens impact. Think about: lessons on safe storage, hygiene habits, and community care of shared water points.

Plus, we’re already dreaming about future well projects—because no one should have to choose between water and safety, water and school, water and work.

Whether you walked 6K, donated, or simply cheered someone on, know this: you were part of something transformational.

Water is life. And because of you, water is flowing in the Alebtong District.

Olivia Murphy-Sweet, Executive Director, Field of Hope

 

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!