Reflections (by Team 1)

As Team 1 return to the UK it is time to reflect on the experience of living for two weeks in country that challenges, in so many ways, our western understanding of the world. At first glance Uganda appears to be so poor in every context yet this was not our experience. If you look behind the obvious poverty you find a people who have a joy and zest for life that is largely unmatched in our country. Uganda is a lush, green, beautiful country (apart from the red dust which we will be washing out of our clothes and hair for weeks!) where the vast majority of people have so little, we have met with Street Children, patients with severe illness, schools, families and communities living at a level we only see in the media. It has been shocking and upsetting as this is day to day life for millions of people. However, whatever the circumstances, we have been met with genuine happiness, smiles, joy and love that would not be found in the same situations in the west. We have seen people with virtually nothing willing to share with those who have less, supporting their families and communities at their own expense. For the majority of the population, whatever they have, or extra they gain, is shared with others, there is no greed or desire to improve their own situation, just to ensure the wellbeing of those around them. This is real love in action. We have so much to learn.

Whether it was our first, second, fourth or twentieth visit to this beguiling African nation, each and every one of has been deeply impacted by the experience of living and working alongside the wonderful Ugandan people for the last couple of weeks. It is now time to process all we have learnt, heard and seen and evaluate what it means for us. How will our lives be changed? What might we do differently? How can we make a positive difference to the lives of others as a result? For many of us, Uganda is under our skin and we will return. After the experiences of the last 2 weeks, how could we not?

Some personal reflections from members of the team;

This has been the best experience I’ve ever had. I couldn’t have asked for a better team. I’ve made memories and friends that’ll last a lifetime. I’ve never felt so much love in one place.

15 life changing days that I will never forget. I have come back with new friendships and a completely different outlook on things. Realising how important that the things that we take for granted can literally change a person’s day in Uganda - watching their smiles and gratitude has been the absolute highlight of my trip…

We can’t change the world, but we can bring happiness to a person’s day… and that’s what it was all about.

It’s Life changing … for them, and us! My 8th trip but it could have been my first

I have had the most incredible and life changing 2 weeks. Each and every one of you has made such an impact on me for your love and kindness to each other and everyone we met. Uganda is firmly in my heart.

2 weeks of the most eye opening experiences, with the warmest welcomes, from the most thankful Ugandan people, in the hottest weather, with the best team! What more can you ask for?

Never experienced so many God moments; will be looking round for more. Thanks all those who showed me the way.

It’s all about relationships - building new and strengthening existing ones - and evidence of the power of love.

Precious memories made with amazing people in an amazing country, whose people can teach us a lesson in gratefulness, gratitude and generosity.

An amazing 2 weeks, my heart and head are full of images, faces and songs that I’ll hold on to forever. Thank you Team 1, you are kind generous people with big hearts and I’ll never forget you all.