The Ugandan people have taught me that happiness is not measured by possessions - it comes from a loving family, a community and making the most of what you have.
Clare Truter took a sabbatical to work as a country leader for Mission Direct in Uganda. She returned home with a new outlook and a new set of priorities.
You spent four months in the country. What were your impressions of the nation and the people?
I was overwhelmed by the lushness of the scenery - Uganda is so green and very unlike the typical shot of Africa we see on the TV. Despite the poverty, the beauty of the country is outstanding. The people were smiling and happy - there is a feeling of real warmth.
What sort of greeting did you receive?
It was the best welcome I've ever experienced! People have huge respect for visitors and they go out of their way to provide a spectacular welcome, often with song and dance. Formalities are a big part of Ugandan life so expect welcome speeches and visitors books galore!
Uganda suffered from a huge HIV epidemic. How has that affected the nation?
Uganda has a large amount of AIDS orphans and the population is an hour glass shape - lots of young and old but a small amount of middle aged people. This means that there are lots of needy children - not only orphans but children who are caring for their siblings and elders.
Do all those children and especially orphans and boarders at the school bring out volunteers' maternal or paternal sides?
Definitely! Like all of the Ugandan people, the children give you an amazing welcome. Their resourcefulness is outstanding - they create toys out of items found on the street yet play happily, contented with their lot. They are so interested in, and excited by, meeting new people. They are a joy to be with even on the building site.
A lot of people that go on trips to Uganda tell us that it has really affected their outlook on life for the better. Was that your experience?
That was true for me without a doubt. We lead very privileged lives in the UK yet are often discontent with what we have. The Ugandan people have taught me that happiness is not measured by possessions - it comes from a loving family, a community and making the most of what you have.
How else has your time in Uganda changed you?
Uganda has shown me how other people live and opened my eyes to life in a developing country. I am inspired by the hope and dedication of the people I met and also by the pride shown by the school pupils in their education and their futures.
Who would you recommend a Mission Direct Uganda trip to?
The Uganda trip offers variety and a real sense of really getting to know a community. The building site work is only part of the entire package - you visit community based projects and get to see the beauty of the country giving volunteers a well rounded glimpse into this stunning developing country and what makes the people tick.
Clare Truter
Don’t worry – be happy!
"I think I will be more grateful and happier now" - Uganda volunteer
When we ask our volunteers what they have learned from their time in Uganda, they say things like ‘to be happy and enjoy life’. Time and again, volunteers return transformed by the warmth and upbeat natures of Ugandans, in spite of their circumstances.
Contribution: £1,395
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