Cultivating Capacity: Empower Rural Ugandan Youth!

Dear supporters,

Hello from the farm! We cannot thank you enough for your generosity. Below we describe how the seeds you helped plant have grown over the last few months. Below that are photos for your viewing pleasure! We hope you feel as proud as we do.

Youth Employment & Training

TYoFU employs and trains youth ages 15-30 years old. Since TYoFU began, we have offered employment and training opportunities to over thirty youth from the local community. Hear from one youth farmer, Flavia, about the impact of TYoFU in her life:

“I’m Flavia, I was born and grew up in this village of Kalongero. As youth in Kalongero we are facing challenges of unemployment, lack of capital (land and funds), lack of a market for our farm products, and a lack of skills in modern farming and other sectors. However, ever since Thriving Youth Farmers Uganda (TYoFU) came in our community in 2021, we have seen a tremendous change in our lives and community. We have benefited by getting employment, funds to support our families, as well as food and clean water. We have gained skills and new connections in our lives. I’m happy that I’m working with Thriving Youth Farmer’s Uganda.”

Sanitary Facilities Project Status: Nearly Done!

TYoFU has neared the end of our ambitious project to construct bathrooms and washrooms using sustainable biodigester technology for staff, students, and visitors alike. Mortar begins to dry in the sun, and smiles are passed around as the full structure of the project finally comes into reality.  We believe that creating a comfortable and hygienic environment is essential for the well-being of everyone at TYoFU.

To learn more about the installation and value of the biodigester, you can watch our video here.

Expanding Our Team, Deepening Our Partnerships

In early 2024, two new members joined the TYoFU team - Ugandan volunteer staff member Jessica Ojala, acting as an Administrator for TYoFU, and American volunteer Cedar Elkheart, supporting with public communications. Jessica and Cedar offer invaluable skills in their respective roles, and TYoFU elevated by their support.

TYoFU’s partnership with Georgetown Global Consulting has deepened, as six university students take on various roles this spring to help TYoFU build capacity in the areas of fundraising, grant-writing, partnership, and outreach. TYoFU and the GGC team meet once a week to work towards set deliverables. Ideally, the partnership will be renewed for next school year as well.

Diversifying Our Funding & Seeking In-Kind Donations

Founding a farm and vocational training center is no small undertaking. TYoFU will increase its revenue as the farm grows, but outside funding underpins the investment in infrastructure and ongoing youth services. Some of the key infrastructure that TYoFU needs - enough laptops, an office, wifi, solar power, and livestock and poultry buildings - will require an infusion of capital or other resources in the near future.

Therefore, as of January, TYoFU began working with two different organizations to initiate the effort to research and write grant proposals for TYoFU. Additionally, we hope to research the possibility of in-kind donations in the East Africa region, such as donations of laptops, building supplies, training, and solar panels. Wish us luck! If you know of organizations whose mission is to offer those or like resources, please let us know.

Growing & Grateful

We continue to grow healthy produce and feel deep gratitude for your support. Thank you for believing in our mission, vision, and potential. April's Little-by-Little matching campaign is just around the corner, beginning April 8th, if you or those you know are interested. 

In solidarity on behalf of our shared future,

The TYoFU team

Links:

• TYoFU Instagram
• TYoFU Facebook
• TYoFU Twitter