Hope you enjoy the not-so-serious portrait of a very serious mission.
This little caricature captures the heart of Project Have Hope — a small but mighty team fueled by creativity, compassion and hope.
As promised, I’m starting to share more behind-the-scenes glimpses of Project Have Hope. Fair warning — you’re going to see more photos of me and hear more of my personal narrative than ever before. Sorry (not sorry!).
The truth is, we’re a small organization with a big impact. Project Have Hope began in 2006 with a group of incredible women in Uganda. They are the heartbeat of everything we do — managing artisan orders, facilitating child sponsorships, and ensuring programs run smoothly day after day. It’s meaningful work, and it’s not easy.
Here in the U.S., things look a little different. Most days, it’s a one-woman show — me and my cat (who I lovingly refer to as my Artistic Director). I’m supported by a few amazing volunteers who step in during events when I can’t physically be in two places at once.
This year, I want to open the curtain a bit more. I’m often asked, “What exactly do you do?” — and the honest answer is: a lot of everything. Through photos, stories, and everyday moments, I hope to show the personal side of this journey and give you a clearer picture of the work happening both here and in Uganda.
And while you’ll hear more from me, I also want to shine a bright light on the extraordinary women in Uganda who truly make it all possible. They are the reason Project Have Hope exists — and the reason it continues to grow.
Lovingly known as Mama Oyet, Esther is the heart and steady leader of Project Have Hope. Respected as both a community elder and woman leader, she brings wisdom, humor, and calm to every situation.
Years with Project Have Hope have strengthened her confidence and leadership skills, exposing her to new cultures, people, and opportunities. She loves storytelling, traveling, and sharing traditional Acholi culture with her children and community. Her journey has transformed her life — equipping her with knowledge, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose.
A mother of four and dedicated leader, Santina has grown alongside Project Have Hope through hard work and determination. She completed computer and tailoring training, strengthened her English, and developed strong entrepreneurial skills.
Santina runs several small businesses — baking, sewing, hairdressing, and brick-making — and dreams of opening her own tailoring workshop and salon. She is equally committed to her children’s futures, with one training in plumbing and another studying nursing. In her spare time, she enjoys drama, skits, and sharing Acholi proverbs, while planning to one day build a retirement home in her northern village.
Jennifer joined Project Have Hope at just 17 and quickly became an essential part of the leadership team. With PHH’s support, she completed her secondary education and built the confidence and communication skills that shape her future.
She now lives in a larger home and runs a small groundnut-roasting business each morning. Hard-working and adaptable, Jennifer believes she can work with anyone, anywhere. When she has free time, she enjoys relaxing with friends and looking ahead to a bright, limitless future.
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From a little girl who once asked for a doll to a mechanical engineer, and a sponsored child who dreamed of helping others to a practicing doctor — Winnie and Jotham’s journey is a beautiful reminder of what long-term support and community can achieve. Now engaged and preparing for their February 28 wedding, their story is living proof that hope, opportunity, and perseverance can truly transform lives.
