I did not know that I could live a better life like this

My name is Awor Juliet. I am a 41-year-old farmer and the Chairperson of the Bedimar Young Mothers Saving Group in Ocini, Adak Parish, Kamdini Sub-County, Oyam District.

Before I joined the Rise Above Poverty (RAP) program implemented by Ignite Change, my life was full of uncertainty. Although I was saving money, I did not save with a purpose. Whenever I received my savings, I spent it on immediate seasonal expenses like meat, clothes, and other non-essential items during Christmas time. I had no clear vision for my family’s future.

This lack of planning affected my entire household. I did not prioritize my children’s education, and meeting basic needs like food, healthcare, and proper hygiene was a struggle. I often sold my farm produce without a plan, and the money was quickly spent without thinking about the future. As a result, my family faced food insecurity and could not meet important needs, especially education.

Everything began to change when I joined the RAP program.

Through weekly group training, I gained practical knowledge in saving with purpose, financial management, budgeting, and health practices, among others. These lessons transformed my mindset and helped me make better decisions for my family.

Today, I save with clear goals. I plan and budget together with my husband, and all my children are now in school. I feel empowered, independent, and self-reliant in a way I never imagined before.

My personal journey has been one of growth and resilience. With my first savings of UGX 50,000 ($14), I bought two hens, which multiplied into six chickens. In my second cycle, I sold the chickens and added my savings of UGX 70,000 ($20) to buy two goats. The goats multiplied, and although I sold some to meet family needs, I remained with two to continue growing my livestock.

Juliet with her 2 goats

In my third cycle, I saved UGX 100,000 ($29) and used it to buy a piglet. Unfortunately, it died. This was a setback, but I did not give up. I continued saving. In my fourth cycle, I saved UGX 200,000 ($57), which I carefully used to pay school fees for my children, buy maize seeds for planting, and purchase food for my family.

Today, I can meet my family’s basic needs, including education, healthcare, and food, without struggle. My household has enough to eat, and my children are well clothed and cared for.

I have also become more confident in my community. I now visit others who are facing challenges, sharing knowledge, encouraging them, and offering guidance. After every harvest, my family and I sit together to budget and plan, always prioritizing our children’s education, something we did not do before.

Looking ahead, I have a clear vision for my future. I plan to sell my goats, buy a piece of land, and build a permanent house with about 15 iron sheets where my family can live comfortably.

I did not know that I could live a better life like this. Today, I feel free and strong because I have gained knowledge and can live independently.

My message to others is simple: when you are part of a savings group, learn to save with purpose. With a clear vision, your future can truly change.

Thank you.