At 25, Syrus Jjuuko from Ssekanyonyi Sub-county in Mityana District is proving that success often comes to those who act first.
In 2023, after participating in TeamUp training on modern farming practices, Syrus chose not to wait for more capital, more support, or the “perfect time” to start. Using land inherited from his late father, he immediately planted coffee and matooke, applying lessons on mulching, spacing, and crop management.
His decision paid off. During the December 2025 coffee harvest season, Syrus earned Uganda Shillings 1.5 million from his coffee garden, ahead of his peers who were still deciding whether to venture into coffee farming. He is now expanding his enterprise, with another acre of coffee approaching the flowering stage.
His story is a powerful reminder that knowledge creates change only when it is put into action. While many young people were waiting for the right moment, Syrus planted. Today, he is reaping the rewards.
“Many of my colleagues wanted to start farming, but they kept postponing. I decided to use the land I had and apply what I learned immediately. That decision changed my life.” Syrus Jjuuko.
See this video of Syrus in garden: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jjuuko-syrus-542b5b279_coffeeproject-diversification-agriculture-ugcPost-7463523207946362880-42yv/
Syrus Jjuuko is a Youth Champion and Executive Committee member of the TeamUp Youth Network.
A Life Looking for Direction
Before joining TeamUp, Syrus was widely known in his community for his football talent. He represented his school in regional competitions, where he developed qualities such as discipline, teamwork, and determination. However, after completing high school, he faced the uncertainty that confronts many young people in rural communities.
The loss of his father left him without a clear support system. With limited financial resources and little confidence to engage in leadership or community affairs, his future seemed uncertain. Seeking guidance and opportunity, Syrus joined the Magala Youth Development Group, a decision that would mark a turning point in his life.
Through the group and TeamUp interventions, he began to see new possibilities for personal growth, economic empowerment, and community leadership.
Learning to Save and Invest
One of the most important lessons Syrus gained was the value of financial discipline.
Through the group’s Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA), he developed a consistent saving culture and learned how to manage money responsibly. The savings scheme enabled him to access loans that he invested directly into farming activities, helping him grow his agricultural enterprise step by step.
His improved financial standing also positioned him to benefit from government livelihood initiatives. Through the Parish Development Model (PDM), he received one million Uganda shillings, which he invested in purchasing a calf.
Today, Syrus credits saving and investing as key pillars of his progress.
“The VSLA taught me that you do not have to wait until you have a lot of money. If you save consistently and invest wisely, you can gradually build something meaningful.” Syrus Jjuuko
Growing as a Leader
Through TeamUp’s Youth Empowerment Centre in Ssekanyonyi, Syrus gained exposure to local governance processes and opportunities to engage in leadership. He now actively participates in village meetings, sub-county council sessions, and budget conferences, where he confidently contributes to discussions affecting young people in his community.
As his confidence grew, so did his commitment to serving others. Syrus has become a vocal advocate for youth wellbeing and sexual and reproductive health and rights. Drawing on skills acquired through TeamUp trainings, he collects and uses community data to advocate for improved access to youth-friendly services and to address challenges such as teenage pregnancy.
His leadership role has earned him recognition as both a Youth Champion and a member of the TeamUp Youth Network Executive Committee, where he helps amplify the voices and concerns of young people.
Looking Ahead
Over the next five years, Syrus plans to continue saving and investing so that he can purchase additional land, expand his coffee enterprise, and build his own home.
Beyond his personal ambitions, Syrus remains committed to creating positive change in his community. He dreams of a future where girls stay in school, young people have access to opportunities, and every youth can realise their full potential regardless of their background.
