My experience in Uganda was far from what I expected, but it became a trip I will remember for my lifetime. I want to share my story about my journey to Uganda and my time with Field of Hope.

I remember the first time my aunt seriously suggested that I apply for the summer fellowship late last year, I had many doubts and worries but trusted her. After my first call with the team I was instantly at ease, they were so welcoming, it already felt as if we were family.  When I found out I was selected to go I never felt another doubt on the Field of Hope side of things. They were constantly checking in, making sure I was prepared, and putting my worries at ease.

Fast forward to the day before my departure, there was a bump in the road. I needed an unexpected mouth surgery, but by the grace of God, less than 24 hours later I was on a plane to Uganda. The trip was not easy and there were many moments when I thought, “What am I doing?”, but when I landed I instantly knew I was exactly where I was meant to be. I was excited to spend my summer there.

About three weeks in, I was settled in and had a routine when my mouth flared up again. My first thought was I can’t tell anyone because I did not want to take the chance of going home, but after a few hours I knew the smartest decision was to call home. When my family told me the best decision was to come back, I was truly heartbroken. The next 48 hours were a blur, and it took a while to adjust to being back in the United States. But with time to reflect, I’ve realized many things.

My first thought when this happened was, “Why me?”, but after sitting with it I realized I shouldn’t ask, “Why me?” because I had to come home early but rather “Why me?” that I was blessed enough to go in the first place. I believe with all my heart that everything happens for a reason. Sometimes we may never know that reason, but we just have to trust.

I truly could not have asked for a better organization to be with during this time. Field of Hope has been incredible. They have continued to make me feel a part of the family and have allowed me to keep contributing from home, which I am so thankful for. They gave me this opportunity I will never forget.

I miss the connections I made in Uganda deeply, and I pray that one day I will be able to see them all again. Thank you, Field of Hope.

Gracie Fisher, Fellow ’25

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

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

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

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.  

2. 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.

3. 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

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

The past two weeks have been nothing more than fulfilling and impactful. These past weeks I have challenged myself in facilitating 163 Ugandan Agriculture Educators who will impact 57,913 students across the country. The Field of Hope team and I have assisted each other in planting a seed of hope, dignity, resilience, and passion in each of the cultural teachers. These teachers traveled from across the county to gather in the northern and southern districts to network, learn, and grow personally and professionally.

With teachers full of excitement to learn how they can better their teaching skills and knowledge to best serve their students. This training allowed Field of Hope to plant a seed within our Level 1 teachers and helped us water the seeds we have previously planted in our Level 2 teachers. These seeds that have been planted will grow over time and will bear many fruits which teacher and students will benefit from.

The Bible teaches us in Genesis 26:12 that the seeds we sew shall prosper because the lord has blessed us. I believe this same goes for these seeds that we have sewed during teacher training. Field of Hope planted 163 seeds within 2 weeks in agriculture teachers. Metaphorically, these seeds will become long-term fruit-bearing plants that will bear nutritious fruits. These nutritious fruits will feed knowledge and skills into students who enter these Ugandan agriculture teachers’ classrooms. With much encouragement, these teachers will create a massive impact on students’ lives. These students will impact others–from classmates to those entering the direct workforce, to becoming the next generation of business and industry leaders.

The impact that Field of Hope’s Teacher Training has is tremendous. From a staff perspective, this teacher training opened my eyes to the love, care, and willingness each teacher here in Uganda has for their classrooms. Their willingness has inspired me to be “all in” for creating change and impact in everyday life. I hope to take the love, care, and willingness that each of these teachers has back home to the ones I serve.

Hunter Lee Adkins, Fellow ’24

Within two weeks, Field of Hope trained 162 agricultural education teachers at their annual teacher training. Teachers were able to leave each day with new or more in-depth teaching skills, while also sharing some incredible local food throughout the day. The Field of Hope teacher training is structured with level one being the first year a teacher attended teacher training and level two including ones attending for the second year. With the support of Vivayic, Field of Hope creates an effective professional development opportunity for Uganda’s agricultural educators. Not only are they able to attend the training, but also leave with teacher guide’s and supplements to have agricultural education curriculum in their classroom for secondary one through three.

Our days were packed with learning activities and other opportunities to learn from each other. My time in teacher training was with the level two participants. Olivia, Joseph, Agnes, and I went over content such as creating teaching philosophies, teaching methodologies, starting an agricultural club, strategies for creating an inclusive classroom, and more. Additionally, the teachers learned from each other and created connections to other teachers throughout the country. Though I was most impressed with how these teachers took time from their short break between terms to come together and share ideas to take back to their classroom. Nobody required these teachers to come, yet they had the intrinsic motivation to take advantage of this professional development opportunity.

On the last day of teacher training, we would have the level two teachers share their teaching philosophy. The philosophies demonstrated how these teachers care for their students and expressed their value in creating an empowering learning environment for each student. Each philosophy was filled with statements such as, “I believe every student belongs in agriculture” or “I will use experiential learning to engage my learners in agriculture.” We all grew as educators within those two weeks by sharing ideas and our motivations. As a result, I am certain the impact of the Field of Hope teacher training will positively impact the lives of agricultural students in Uganda.

Meikah Dado, Fellow ’24

Throughout my time here in Uganda, one of my main tasks has been developing a teachers’ guide for agriculture clubs in Secondary Schools. This guide consists of precise steps for beginning an agriculture club for teachers. Our main goal with this guide is to ensure ease and accessibility for teachers to create a successful agriculture club. It consists of the correct steps to take in planning, development, and seeking approval from admiration, a club constitution, fundraiser ideas, and leadership activities to build students’ skills. This document has been a working progress. To do this, we have conducted research to ensure we fit into Ugandan classrooms, teachers can easily underhand and comprehend, and retaining teacher and student feedback to ensure we are best serving the students and teachers of Uganda.

One of our first schools to implement our agriculture club guide is St. Gracious Secondary School. The teachers and students at St. Gracious took the risk of developing a new agriculture club from the bottom up using our guide. We are proud to share they have been successful and off to an extraordinary start!

Meet the first elected leaders of Field of Hope’s Agriculture Leadership Club! This group of enthusiastic leaders attends St. Gracious Secondary School. They embody the definition of being true leaders. They are willing to serve others, take risks, and uphold the core strengths and values a leader needs to succeed. When I first sat down with this group of talented students; I immediately could tell they had the qualities of successful leaders and upheld the qualities they needed. I could get they were Ready!

The excitement radiated in our small group discussion, with elite conversations that sparked new passions of growth– for their new agriculture club, their members, and themselves. These student leaders were Ready and Set! Set with a plan full of determination and ambition. All they have left to do is Serve!

With an ongoing Inspiring Student in Agriculture Project (ISIA), these students are prone to success. They have a prosperous poultry project where students gain hands-on learning experiences in rearing poultry, slaughtering, and preparing for consumption. These students have an entrepreneurial mindset of service to others. St. Gracious Secondary Agriculture Leadership Club Leaders work passionately to ensure great quality poultry is served to their customers who purchase their goods.

With true service, a heart of passion, and the willingness to take risks; the student leaders of St. Gracious Agriculture Leadership Club are destined for success. Seeing a group of students work extremely hard to chase a dream and create a path for themselves and others to follow is thrilling.

Hunter Lee Adkins, Fellow ’24