



The Real Uganda
Why choose The Real Uganda?
The Real Uganda is a nonprofit organization that connects volunteers with hands-on projects in Ugandan communities. Founded in 2005, we focus on an authentic, immersive volunteer experience for people who want their time to matter. We support sustainable, community-driven work. Volunteer placements can include teaching, literacy support, public health and health education, and community project...
The Real Uganda is a nonprofit organization that connects volunteers with hands-on projects in Ugandan communities. Founded in 2005, we focus on an authentic, immersive volunteer experience for people who want their time to matter. We support sustainable, community-driven work. Volunteer placements can include teaching, literacy support, public health and health education, and community projects connected to conservation, sanitation, and sustainable agriculture. We work closely with local partners to understand what is needed and to match volunteers where they can help in a practical way. Cultural immersion is a big part of the experience. You will spend time with local families and community members, learn about daily life in Uganda, and build real relationships. Volunteers can also...
The Real Uganda Reviews
Hear what past participants have to say about the programs
Overall Rating
Total Reviews
Don't Just 'See' Uganda - Experience the Real Uganda. It will change your life.
September 10, 2025by: Lisa Cork - New ZealandProgram: 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+++++



Mukono with the Real Uganda
December 19, 2023by: Rhodes Fox-Smith - AustraliaIncredible experience. Super challenging. Leslie was a fantastic support through the whole program. Felt like I received a genuine Ugandan experience. Leslie connected me with a fantastic local organisation that is really in it's early stages of development. Spending time in the villages and meeting true locals and hearing their stories has changed me. Uganda is a beautiful country so spending a month it wasn't difficult to fill my time. Go into an experience like this with an open mind and heart.
The simple things in life
December 14, 2023by: Kathy Lynch - AustraliaMy volunteering time with The Real Uganda was an eye opening experience and a reminder that a simple life can be so rewarding to others and myself. Learning from the locals and using my skills and knowledge with them was incredible. My experience was so life changing and memorable that nineteen years on, I am still in contact with the Real Uganda.
Aw, Kathy! Thanks so much for the kind words and tonnes of love over the years, Leslie
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Interviews
Read interviews from alumni or staff

Sarah Hadley
Participated in 2022
Sarah Hadley is a new grad BSN but her degree was in international politics. She has always wanted to travel and she is just getting started. Sarah ha...

Sarah Hadley
Participated in 2022
I've always wanted to go abroad since I was just a little girl, specifically somewhere in Africa. I never thought it would be Uganda.

Rachel Lyon
Participated in 2018
Rachel is a 26 year old Australian who works at a juice bar. She has travelled to seven countries, six of which have been in the past six years.

Rachel Lyon
Participated in 2018
My passion to work with children in childcare and my desire to travel whilst also volunteering

Esther Sserunkuma
Interviewed in 2018
Esther Sserunkuma is The Real Uganda's long time guesthouse manager. Since 2005, she has cared for almost 900 volunteers from all over the world. Esth...

Esther Sserunkuma
Interviewed in 2018
What inspired you to travel abroad?
You’ve been working for The Real Uganda since the beginning. How has the organization evolved, since 2005, most significantly?
Ready to Learn More?
The Real Uganda is a nonprofit organization that connects volunteers with hands-on projects in Ugandan communities. Founded in 2005, we focus on an authentic, immersive volunteer experience for people who want their time to matter. We support sustainable, community-driven work. Volunteer placements can include teaching, literacy support, public health and health education, and community projects connected to conservation, sanitation, and sustainable agriculture. We work closely with local partners to understand what is needed and to match volunteers where they can help in a practical way. Cultural immersion is a big part of the experience. You will spend time with local families and community members, learn about daily life in Uganda, and build real relationships. Volunteers can also...

The Real Uganda

The Real Uganda
Ready to Learn More?
The Real Uganda is a nonprofit organization that connects volunteers with hands-on projects in Ugandan communities. Founded in 2005, we focus on an authentic, immersive volunteer experience for people who want their time to matter. We support sustainable, community-driven work. Volunteer placements can include teaching, literacy support, public health and health education, and community projects connected to conservation, sanitation, and sustainable agriculture. We work closely with local partners to understand what is needed and to match volunteers where they can help in a practical way. Cultural immersion is a big part of the experience. You will spend time with local families and community members, learn about daily life in Uganda, and build real relationships. Volunteers can also...
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