RAISING TEENAGERS UGANDA CHAMPIONS GIRLS’ EDUCATION AT REBUILD SCHOLARS FUNDRAISING GALA

In a country where education is a powerful tool to break the cycle of poverty and inequality, moments that bring together champions for change are not just events, they are movements. On 29th May, we were honored to be part of the fundraising gala for Rebuild Scholars, an event which brought together educators, development partners, advocates and change-makers. This aimed at raising funds and awareness to support the education of vulnerable children especially girls who are often the first to drop out due to poverty, early marriage and lack of support.

The highlight of the day was the keynote speech from our Executive Director madam Hope Nankunda whose address offered not just words of encouragement but was a call to action that left the audience deeply moved and inspired. She passionately emphasized the impact of educating girls. “When you educate a girl, you educate a family. You educate a community. You build a nation,” she began.

She highlighted the daily struggles many Ugandan girls face especially those in rural areas for example walking long distances to school, managing periods without sanitary products, facing stigma and the ever-present threat of being pulled out of school to support family needs or be married off early. She also shared stories of resilience for girls that have been supported and risen beyond their circumstances to become community leaders, university students and mentors to others.  Her speech brought some emotions when she spoke about the power of giving. She recalled her own journey, crediting her success to people who chose to support her education at critical points in her life. “Many of us are standing here today because someone believed in us. Someone gave their time, money and encouragement so we could have a future,” she said. “Giving is more than charity. It is a seed we plant in the future of this country.” Her words inspired an energetic round of pledges and donations, with many guests stepping forward to sponsor girls, volunteer their time and partner with the organizations represented at the gala.

She encouraged attendees not to underestimate the impact of their contributions. Whether it is school fees, mentorship or a safe place for girls to speak, every act of support counts. She concluded with making emphasis that if each of us chose to support just one girl to stay in school, we will be rewriting the future. Our team took time to connect with likeminded organizations and new partners, sharing insights from their experiences working with teenage girls in both rural and urban settings. Our participation in the fundraising gala was not just an opportunity to share about our work but also to show solidarity with Rebuild Scholars, whose mission aligns closely with RTU’s goals.

The gala also featured stories from students who have been supported by Rebuild Scholars. Their testimonials brought to life the impact of educational support showing how a single act of giving can change the entire trajectory of a young person’s life. For us at Raising Teenagers Uganda, the gala was more than an event, it was a reminder of the power of community, storytelling and shared vision. It reaffirmed RTU’s belief that when civil society works together, real change is possible. It also reminded us that education is not just a right but a lifeline. Raising Teenagers Uganda’s involvement showed its deep commitment to ensuring no girl is left behind because of her background or gender. Together we are building a Uganda where every teenager has a chance to thrive.

Compiled by: Pillar Mbabazi