Agriculture, Conservation, and Food Security in Uganda

I chose the Real Uganda volunteer experience because it seemed a trustworthy program that offered genuine volunteer activities, not just tokenism. The program delivered in every way. I loved living with a Ugandan family. This created a deep level of empathy and understanding for day-to-day life. I loved the groups I volunteered with. The women were so genuinely welcoming and appreciative of having a volunteer. And while my world and theirs is vastly different, my life has been enriched by spending time understanding their world and their lives. If you want to do more than just travel Uganda, I highly recommed the Real Uganda. The program is professionally run, provides great communication and Leslie is a dream to work with. A+++++

Even thought it's a volunteer program I felt I have taken so much more than I gave during my time in Uganda. I spent two weeks working with the village ladies in the farm in the morning and playing with kids of different ages in the evening. They were all extremely welcoming and fun and they took me in as part of their family right away. I particularly enjoyed the discussion time with them, both the ladies and kids were very open to share about their life and problems and also keen to learn about me and my culture. My hosts, Leslie from The Real Uganda and Robert and Vivian from the local NGO partner Lugacraft, not only took very good care of me while I was there but also taught me so much about the local culture. Because of this I felt I have built a special tie with Uganda compared to other countries I visited in Africa. Special thanks to Leslie who gave me plenty of useful information and managed my expectation prior to my arrival so that I left the program and country with only very fond memories.

I didn't really think about the name of the charity - the Real Uganda - until I reflected upon my volunteering experience when I got back home, but I think it sums it up pretty well. I experienced living with a real Ugandan family, in a real Ugandan community, experienced real Ugandan life and made a real difference. I lived with a couple who ran the local church and school and their four kids, plus their extended family and community who are all around to interact with and help you out and talk to you; you really do become part of the family and community. I helped out on the farm (all though not as much as planned due to the dry weather, the soil was to hard to do much!), as well as at the local school painting, playing games with the children, and helping the school cook, or matron. On the weekends there is plenty to see and do in Uganda; safaris, visit the river Nile, Kampala, there is a lot to experience. If this is what you are looking for then then The Real Uganda is a perfect choice for you.