Nyankwanzi’s Alumni Pay-it-Forward

It began in an Asante Africa Foundation’s Youth Livelihood Program (YLP) club at Nyankwanzi High School in Uganda. Club leaders, Pearl and Bambanza, began to take actions that transformed their lives and the lives of the students at their school. They began with a common vision and applied practical steps based on their studies about entrepreneurship, investments, negotiations, savings, and dynamic planning. Soon, a dream blossomed.  

Pearl and Bambanza brainstormed strategies that seemed both daunting and promising. Through teamwork, hard work, and determination, their dream that dared to come alive, saw the light of the day. 

These two alumni put their skills to use; they saved 2,000 Ugandan Shillings each month which amounted to a total of 150,000 Ugandan Shillings. With this capital they started growing tomatoes as they were in high demand at their school’s kitchen which catered for both students and teachers in the boarding facility.

The vision extended beyond personal gain to serve their school community by providing an essential ingredient for meals. They planted tomato seeds and nurtured the plants, leading to a thriving business that cultivated not only tomatoes but also hope, ambition, and a sense of teamwork among their peers.

Today, Pearl and Bambanza are filled with enthusiasm as they anticipate a bountiful harvest and substantial profits that will benefit both themselves and their school. Their journey highlights how practical knowledge, determination, and teamwork can lead to meaningful entrepreneurial ventures, financial success, and the empowerment of young minds to overcome challenges and achieve shared goals.