You’ve been working for The Real Uganda since the beginning. How has the organization evolved, since 2005, most significantly?
Now we have good experience in how to handle volunteers. Our procedures are more developed. Meals, sickness, general care of the volunteers—we’re very professional compared to the early days.
Esther enjoying some fresh roasted nuts in the village
What inspired you to join the organization in the early stages?
I needed a job since I had just finished school and had nothing to do. I just wanted something to do!
Describe a typical day of work for you.
When new volunteers arrive, I welcome them, I cook for them and make sure the guest house is clean ready for them. I’m happy to be with them.
Esther and her son EJ, with Hussain the baby of Namatovu, a community member
What are volunteers biggest concerns upon arrival that you help resolve?
I explain our food to them. It’s all fresh and nutritious. They don’t need to worry about getting sick.
I make sure they know our water is safe to use for bathing and brushing teeth, but not for drinking. When it’s boiled, then it’s safe.
I talk about how to keep their phones and other valuables safe. When entering a bar or restaurant, they should look around themselves and judge whether it’s clean or not.
I give Luganda language lessons on request as well.
How do you help volunteers feel at home in Uganda?
We are friendly. We welcome them by explaining our culture to them: how we greet people, how we raise our kids, how we treat old people—these are all important in our everyday lives. They also really enjoy playing with my young son, EJ.
On average, how many volunteers are working with The Real Uganda at a time?
It ranges from two to 10. It is busiest in June when most of the volunteers are on break from school, but slowest during the Christmas season.
Esther preparing lunch at The Real Uganda’s volunteer guesthouse
What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned about yourself during your time with The Real Uganda?
For myself, I have learned a lot more about my own time management, family planning, and financial responsibility. All are valuable lessons.
What is your most memorable experience thus far?
Back in 2008, I traveled to Queen Elizabeth National Park with some volunteers. We passed through the equator! We saw elephants, hippos, and baboons. It was also really great to see Lake Albert and the Kazinga channel in reality, as I had learned about them in school. I am happy to have such great opportunities to experience places like this with the volunteers.
How does The Real Uganda make a real impact in local communities?
We introduce volunteers to the leaders of community-based organizations. Our volunteers work in those communities, supporting programs in those areas. Our impact is in supporting those local leaders and in sharing Ugandan culture with our volunteers to ensure they are work well.
We also pay school fees for five kids and provide a hot lunch to a Mukono primary school.
What do you love most about your job?
The paycheck! I’ve been able to put eight of my siblings through school. I’ve bought land and am now constructing a house. I can provide for myself and my children because of this job, and I am very grateful.
