Getting my hair colored at a beauty salon—an unlikely place to learn about something that changes the focus of your heart and life. But that’s where I first heard about the 20-year war in Uganda, a conflict that was brutally impacting countless children and families. God stirred in me a compassion and passion to help these vulnerable children (and so many more). Within a year, I found myself in Gulu, northern Uganda, on a short-term trip, meeting the resilient and inspiring Acholi people. Despite the years of war, they worshipped God with a joy and freedom I had never experienced. And to say I wasn’t the international mission trip type is an understatement—I didn’t even go camping for vacations. But God knew how to awaken me to the needs and beauty in the body of Christ.
From that awakening, the Lord continued to grow my concern for vulnerable children around the world. Fast forward a few years, and I started working at Forward Edge—a dream come true, helping children discover their God-given worth and purpose.
In the summer of 2023, I had the opportunity to lead a video team in Uganda to capture the story of what God was doing in the lives of Bonny, our program director, and Aminah, a precious young lady in the program. The trip took us to Kampala, a city in southern Uganda, quite different from Gulu, where I had been before. In Kampala, people speak a completely different language and belong to different tribes. Uganda, a country shaped by colonization, sees its northern and southern regions as very distinct.
As we wrapped up filming, Bonny told us we were going to meet the women from ‘The Women of the Word Savings and Craft Club.’ I was excited because I owned some of their hand-rolled beaded jewelry and wanted to express how much I loved it. But God had more in store for us all—these were Acholi women originally from the north. These brave women had uprooted their lives during the civil war, moving south to protect their children and give them a future, despite the challenges of adapting to a new language and culture. It was a joy to tell them I had been to their home territory and knew a bit of their story. They were so blessed—there was much hugging and crying all around!
Their stories are so beautiful, and I am grateful that Forward Edge has been able to help them. Thanks to the Forward Edge program, their children are all in school. Some of the women have bought land or homes. Others have started or expanded businesses in farming, tailoring, retail, baking, and more, even training younger women in skills they can use to earn a living.
For all of us, it was a reminder that God sees each of us, remembers our stories, and touches our hearts in individual ways. I am thankful that He brought me to meet my sisters, who remain in my heart.
The beautiful handmade jewelry created by these amazing women will be for sale in our World Market at the Worth and Purpose Benefit for Children.
Meet Madam Matha from the Naamu community in northern Ghana. Her faith was put to the test when her daughter worried about going to school without supplies. What happened next? A miracle of unexpected generosity. Dive into this incredible story and witness how God’s love and provision are making a real difference in their lives through our work.
This blog is a part of an ongoing series on Forward Edge’s Pearl Partners. Check out our highlights on Cuba and Haiti and enjoy this interview with Jane Wathagana. 20 years ago, Jane Wathagana was a successful businesswoman in Kenya, the Director of Animal World Safaris and Elangata Luxury
This November, Forward Edge International celebrated 40 years of fruitful ministry at our annual Worth & Purpose Benefit for Children. As part of the celebration, Forward Edge’s Program Directors were invited to attend from around the world. As preparations and accommodations were being made, I learned that our Haitian Program
Looking For Joy? Have you ever felt like you were on a hunt for joy? An 18-year-old boy was surprised to find it surrounded by people who had very little. He found it where you’d assume you’d find sadness. He went on a trip unsure of what he would experience
9 yrs. old
Entered the program: November 2025
Gloria lives with her parents, 2 siblings, and 13 additional extended family members in an eight-room mud house, with an aluminum roof and a dirt floor. They cook outdoors with wood and there is no bathroom or toilet facility.
Gloria’s family is both Muslim and Christian. Her father is a farmer and cultivates maize and millet to provide for the family, but it usually isn’t enough to sustain them until the next farming season. The family struggles to have 2 meals a day. Meeting all of their children’s needs is challenging, especially education. Without assistance from CHG, Gloria’s tuition would not be paid and she could not attend school.
Plus bonus group fundraising ideas!
