No Tears, Just Triumph at TeamUp Closeout Meetings

As the current phase of the TeamUp Uganda program approaches conclusion in July, subcounty and distict-level closeout meetings in Mityana and Kassanda districts are revealing something remarkable: a generation of young people stepping forward with confidence, clarity, and purpose.

Caroline Nantambi exhibiting coffee value addition, a business she started with her fellow youth in Ssekanyonyi Subcounty, Mityana District.
Caroline Nantambi exhibiting coffee value addition, a business she started with her fellow youth in Ssekanyonyi Subcounty, Mityana District.

Rather than expressing uncertainty about the program’s end, youth participants are demonstrating a strong sense of readiness for what comes next. Across the meetings, their voices consistently show that this is not an ending, but a transition.

They speak of feeling empowered, connected, uplifted, and grounded. Most importantly, they feel assured in their ability to continue building on what they have started.

Youth Already in Action

This confidence is already taking shape in real, tangible ways. Many young people are actively working in their gardens, growing coffee and seasonal crops that support both livelihoods and family health.

Others are taking the lead in repairing and maintaining water sources, including boreholes, ensuring their communities have reliable access to safe water.

Some are stepping into mentorship roles, guiding peers and younger community members across agriculture, water, and health sectors.

Solome Nattabi,a member of Ssekanyonyi Youth Empowerment Centre shows the reusable sanitary pads they produce
Solome Nattabi,a member of Ssekanyonyi Youth Empowerment Centre shows the reusable sanitary pads they produce
Julius Ceaser Atidriziea shows the fruit juice he produces as a business
Julius Ceaser Atidriziea shows the fruit juice he produces as a business

Stories of Transition, Growth and Leadership

In one powerful reflection, a young participant, Johnbosco Mukiibi, describes their journey from learning to leading, showing how confidence built through the program is now translating into action: read the reflection.

Another youth, Viola Namakula, highlights the strength of the networks and connections formed through TeamUp, emphasizing that these relationships will continue to drive impact well beyond the program’s timeline: view the post.

Across both districts, more changemakers are sharing their journeys of growth and resilience. One reflection captures the energy and pride emerging from the closeout engagements: see story.

Moving Forward with Confidence

The closeout meetings highlight how far the youth have come, both in skills and mindset. What stands out most is the collective energy. There is pride in what has been achieved, but also a calm determination to keep going. The networks remain strong, and youth are already using them to collaborate, share knowledge, and expand their impact.

As July approaches, the message from Mityana and Kassanda is clear: this is not an ending. The foundation laid by TeamUp is strong, and the young people are moving forward – confident, capable, and ready for what comes next.

Share This

Print
Email a Friend
LinkedIn
WhatsApp