BIO

James was born into a humble, large family in central Uganda. He is the eighth-born in a family of ten children. His father is a subsistence farmer and his mother manages their home. Due to financial constraints, James’s sisters were unable to pursue an education. In his community, James often saw girls and young women facing early pregnancies and forced marriages. Resources like clean water, electricity, and adequate healthcare are scarce in his community. Schools are few and far between, and there’s a limited quality of education. Many children do not have the opportunity to attend school due to financial constraints or the need to support their families through work. Families often rely on agriculture or small-scale local businesses for their livelihoods. However these jobs can be unpredictable. Despite these community challenges, residents have forged strong bonds with one another and rely on the sense of community for strength and solidarity. 

Fortunately, for James, his brother received support from an NGO in Uganda, which empowered James’s brother and also allowed James to continue with school. Despite the challenges James has faced, he has continued to nourish his dream of pursuing an education. 

Now, James is attending the Adventist University of Central Africa, studying Business Administration. He dreams of being an auditor. James also hopes to raise awareness about social issues affecting communities like his, advocating for change by organizing campaigns or events. James hopes that by creating partnerships between university programs and local community organizations, they can develop sustainable initiatives and develop long-term solutions to address community needs. James hopes to create meaningful change in local communities by creating additional job opportunities, supporting local artisans, or offering affordable services and goods. 

Outside of the classroom, James sings in his church choir.