Our program, Light a Candle Uganda, serves 400 children in some of the most difficult areas of Kampala, Uganda. Kampala has 3.5 million people living within the city limits, including 57 slum areas where the poorest of the poor live. Of those living within these slums, 50% are children under the age of 15.
Most have only one parent or no parents at all due to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, and many are in danger of sexual exploitation. By providing meals, education, and mentoring, we are giving these precious children opportunities that brighten their future, protect them from sexual abuse, and help them reach their full, God-given potential.
Bonny was born and raised in Kampala. He graduated from Makerere University with a bachelor's degree in International Business. His wife Julian is a statistician who resigned from her government job and dedicated her life to supporting and nurturing vulnerable children.
Bonny’s passion in life is to ensure that every child is given the right to be a child; as a result, he has been key in advocating for children's rights in Uganda and has been educating parents and communities about the need of keeping children in school.
Through Light A Candle Uganda, Bonny has establishing a strong team that is creating a better world for young boys and girls of the Kampala community. He believes that everyone has a role to play and if we all played our parts then the world would be a better place.
What drew you to the mission of Forward Edge? I came to know about Forward Edge through my great friend Gabe Winslow with whom we have for long shared about having a world where both the poor and rich live in harmony. Forward Edge gives me the opportunity to be a part of God’s story and to have a deeper understanding of my purpose in life which is to put smiles on the faces of vulnerable children.
If you could have dinner with any person in history (excluding Jesus) who would it be and why? Ray Barnett: Founder and CEO of the African Childrens Choir. Barnett left his comfortable home and came down to Uganda during the times of war. He worked hard to protect and bring hope to the marginalized. Today the African Childrens Choir has changed many lives through spreading the Gospel in music and dance and continues to bless and nurture leaders. It is because of Ray’s servanthood spirit that I would love to dine with him.
What is something about you others are often surprised to learn? I train and conduct children’s choirs.
Any team of 10 or more is invited to serve in Uganda. Total trip cost for each team member is $2,650 (9 nights in-country including a 3-day Safari!).
IMPORTANT DATES
AT TIME OF REGISTRATION
30 DAYS BEFORE DEPARTURE
Trip Fee Includes:
Trip Fee Doesn’t Include:
You will work with Bonny, Director of Light a Candle Uganda. Serving in Uganda may include:
Some of our teams have served alongside local doctors and nurses to host a one-day medical clinic which benefits the local children and their families. Relational activities such as arts and crafts, music, games, gifts, or sharing your talents are strongly encouraged and can make a lasting impact in the lives of those we serve.
PASSPORTS:
For entry into Uganda, a US passport and Ugandan visa (purchased 30 days prior to arrival) are required. If you already have a passport, please be sure that the expiration date is at least six months past the date of your departure from Uganda.
TRANSPORTATION: All ground transportation on location is included in your trip fee.
ACCOMODATIONS: In Kampala, you will be staying at a safe and secure guest- house. Towels and linens will be provided.
IMMUNIZATIONS: The government of Uganda does NOT require any shots or immunizations to enter the country. However, Forward Edge highly recommends that all team members are current on their tetanus vaccination, and that they consult a personal physician for further guidance.
YELLOW FEVER: Please visit the Center for Disease Control website, https://www.cdc.gov, to understand the risks and recommendations associated with Yellow fever.
COVID: Policy and preparation will be shared by your Team Coordinator.
TEAM PACKS: Once team member registration is complete, Forward Edge will send individualized team packs including a Forward Edge t-shirt, Team Member Manual, and other helpful information.
SCHEDULE: Each day your team will experience a morning devotional, an evening debrief, and relationship building opportunities through serving local people.
Team members will participate in a fun-filled 3-day expedition at Mweya Safari Lodge in the heart of the historical Queen Elizabeth National Park. With its outstanding wildlife, eye-catching scenery, and a rich cultural history, members will have a tale to tell!
Hi! I’m Sheri, the Uganda Team Coordinator. I look forward to working with you to plan your life-changing week in Uganda!
If you’re interested in organizing a team of 10 or more, you can contact us by filling out the short form below. If you’re an individual looking to join a team, you can scroll through our list of open teams here.
