A STORY ABOUT MY JOURNEY WITH ACT

First, the connection between Turinawe and Waechter families was a miracle that I had never thought before. Getting a friend in USA!

Starting ACT was a dream from God that just came into our thoughts which we did not really plan for a long time before meeting Sue Waechter in 2003. God had this plan for us and happened at the right timing

Since 2003, I have learned and acquired a lot which I can’t lay it all but a list of some;

I have gained Identity, Self-esteem/confidence, Respect, listened to and believed, connections both in USA and Uganda. Have had opportunities reaching big offices, sit and discuss developments with people in higher positions both in Government and Churches… Bishops, Reverends, Lay leaders, Vice president, Prime Minister, Members of Parliament, Education Commissioners, Local Officials and many others in different sectors. They listen to my proposals and Ideas and accept my requests without hesitation. I have learned also a lot from each person I have met and applied to myself.

All US Partners are a blessing to me and family as well as my community. All I have exchanged messages with, I get to learn new things. Spending time with US Mission members here in Uganda working together and eating together is of a great value in my life.

I have attained many skills including; reading, speaking, hearing with attention, daily communication with a chain of people both in Uganda and USA. This has helped me to have good explanations when asked some clarification, stand and address audience at ease with no fear especially when I attend workshops or any events and I am asked to speak and surely, I have been chosen in many occasions. I now have a great number of friends and all are so resourceful and add value to me.

Have learned how to get to NSSF eCollection Portal for generating payment receipts in the system and Uploading Pay as You Earn PAYE registration on the URA Portal. I can help others on how to get into the system for payments and filing returns with Uganda Registration Service Bureau (URSB). All these are done because ACT is in existence.

Traveling in a plane to Santiago, Chile and train to Concepcion, Chile and being held at Paris Airport in France on my return brought a HUGE difference and experience in my life. Now if I am to travel anywhere and I am stopped at any Airport, I remain confident with no fear. I know there is a solution.

Have had an opportunity to serve on one of the UPE schools under the foundation of St, Stephen’s Kisugu Church as a member of Management Committee proposed by Church leaders and congregation and appointed by Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA). Chairman of this committee has delegated me a number of times to chair AGM and meetings of Finance Sub Committee and members have always been happy to have me in a delegated seat. He does that because he believes in my capability which is an experience got from ACT

Leadership expertise I have gained from ACT-takes me to the level of a Consultant. I am able to give immediate guidelines to the Staff both ACT and MHS. When I am in some meetings or fellowships anywhere, If we are asked to introduce ourselves, I talk about my position in ACT and what we do. After, some people approach me to tell me how they are inspired with ACT activities and if I can help them know how they can also help their villages. They are interested to know more about ACT and how they can borrow a leaf to start some projects to benefit their people like we do.

ACT has made me popular here and US. My picture with Sue Waechter appearing on Historical Society Book (VOICES - Extraordinary Women of Midland County)

Sue Waechter’s training and my working daily with her has made me famous in US and Uganda. My working daily with Dave Viele on Finances has made me a star in accounts of which I did not have idea before. I am continuing to pursue new ideas in this field each day of life for excellence. Working daily with Karen Viele in Orphan program has made me understand more the needs of children and how to care for them.

I salute every individual offering services to ACT. I have learned from each one’s passionate language and actions in all programs. It’s a great impact in my life and my family.

 ACT has been my STEPPING STONE

 Generous Turinawe, ACT Uganda Director