This was my first time on a service-learning trip and visiting Africa, a place I never imagined going. The journey was about observing, learning, and helping those in need. I felt both excited and nervous when we arrived in Uganda.
We started by visiting Watoto Village, which has homes, classrooms, clinics, and playgrounds for orphans and their caregivers. The children and teenagers there had genuine smiles and were grateful to their house mothers. I am thankful these kids and mothers have the chance to grow up in a safe, loving, and educational environment, which is much better than in local communities.
Visiting the slum taught me humility. I remember seeing a mother caring for several children in a small, unclean home with dirty water nearby and insects everywhere. Despite their challenging situation, including being abandoned and dealing with HIV, they had to survive with little money. With limited knowledge and resources, caring for their children, especially those with special needs, was difficult. We showed love and support, offering rice, flour, oil, soap, kind words, prayers, and hugs. I appreciate Watoto for supporting these families with financial aid, skills, and values. This helps them gain hope and faith for a better life.
Volunteer teaching was a trip highlight focused on cultural exchange and personal growth. Things did not go as planned—there were more students than expected, and we lacked some equipment. But my teammates quickly adapted. Seeing the students’ genuine smiles when they completed games and crafts was beautiful. Some even told me they loved making Chinese lanterns and asked if I could visit again. While I cannot promise that, I hope they benefit from education and pursue their dreams.
We joined Watoto's “Keep a Girl in School” (KAGIS) campaign to provide sanitary products and soap to girls during puberty. Access to these products helps them stay in school during menstruation, reducing dropout rates and improving their educational opportunities. I truly believe that education can change the world, which is a lesson I learned on this trip.
In addition to visiting schools, we volunteered at the Watoto Child Care Village Suubi, caring for babies rescued by Baby Watoto. Despite their tough beginnings, we aimed to give these children hope. I cherish my time with them and hope they receive love from various people, including Watoto staff and global volunteers.
We went to Good Samaritan Primary School to help with construction work, aiming to create a better learning environment with well-painted walls. This was a new challenge, as it required physical strength, and I was surprised by the heavy equipment. I was also sick and could only participate for one of the three days. Despite this, I did my best to finish painting the wall with my teammates, who supported me when I felt tired. Working together made the challenging tasks more accessible, and I appreciated my teammates’ collaboration and support as we worked toward our common goal.
This service-learning trip was an eye-opening experience that deepened our understanding of different cultures and fueled our passion for serving others as global citizens. Despite challenges like teammates getting sick, I realized how important connection and support are, providing us with faith and hope to give our best. The genuine smiles and laughter of the Ugandan people and our fun interactions made the trip unforgettable. This experience reminded me to stay humble, appreciate what I have, and express gratitude for even the most minor things. I am considering another service trip to Uganda or elsewhere to continue exploring the world and spreading love.
