Currently, there is a growing need on a national scale to target young people because of their ability to advance change. Available statistics reveal that 78.4 percent of the Uganda’s population is below 30 years of age. They are social actors of change and can serve as a pressure group to lobby governments in defining their priorities. It has been clearly stressed that “youth are not only the leaders of tomorrow, but are the partners of today.
Even then, it is impossible for any organization to effectively move forward without the plan for growth and sustainability. One of the ways Action For Development (ACFODE) has effectively done this is through its internship and volunteer program which has equipped beneficiaries with skills in research, public speaking, documentation/ information dissemination and different styles of leadership in preparation for the competitive economy. After the trainings, interns and volunteers are in a much better place to behave professionally since they are exposed to a dynamic environment of professionals while at ACFODE.
However, because of a great desire to have much more impactful results most especially with young women professionals, ACFODE has been inspired to start a program that specifically addresses their professional and life needs. The program involves listening to participants’ needs, giving them professional advice and providing them with an insight about how life can be managed appropriately.
This is because we believe that young people who have had mentoring relationships exhibit significantly better outcomes within the domains of life for instance in education and work (completion & employment), mental health (self esteem & life satisfaction), and problem behavior (conflict management, fighting, & risk taking).
The program therefore seeks to empower and build the career and life-management potential of young women so that they appreciate and utilize the resources and opportunities around them in order to improve their livelihoods.
During the sessions, participants are supported in the transition to professionalism and adulthood, are provided with support and guidance through planned relationships with positive adults, and are empowered with knowledge and skills in different aspects of life. Our first session took place on 29th February, 2012 and attracted 20 participants. While the session was merely introductory, there were a few key issues that were flippantly discussed. They included; how to - set your life goals, seize an opportunity, and share your dreams.
Although these sessions take place every last Wednesday of the month, we are having one today (29th of March 2012) at ACFODE House in Bukoto beginning 2PM. We therefore encourage all young women to come and be part of this very inspiring moment. One of the mentors for the day is Betty Byanyima.
Entrance is free and the day’s topic is “Goal Setting.” Since the place is lively, energetic, and safe, we challenge you to COME, LEARN, NETWORK, AND INTERACT. After all, it doesn’t kill to have a little clean fun!!!
NOTE: Future modules will among other issues be on – Emotional Intelligence, Public Speaking, Financial Intelligence, Conflict Resolution, Leadership, and Team Building.
Compiled by
Sandra Nassali & Belinda Kyomuhendo
Action For Development
Emails: snassali@acfode.org
bkyomuhendo@acfode.org
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