Leveling the Playing Field

By: Joe Winkles

Today was our 4th day in Uganda, and our 2nd day of technology training. We visited Humble United Methodist School today and were greeted by joyful children running up to the van with huge smiles, which is usual, and almost expected from the kids. But when we pulled up today, we were also greeted by joy-filled teachers and staff members. Their smiles, excitement and joy seemed to be almost at the same level as the kids. The teachers knew that today was the day we were coming to give them training on computers and the internet.

We provide this technology training to both the teachers and the kids, but today was a teacher training day only. A lot of the teachers had never used a computer before and were anxious to get started. They were filling the classroom ready to be taught before we had even finished setting up. This anticipation and eagerness to learn continued throughout the day. And it was not just from the teachers, but also from the kids. There were numerous times during the training today that the teachers would have to tell the kids to move out of the doorway. There was always a group there straining to see as much as they could without getting the attention of the teachers. And at any given moment, you could look up and see the windows filled with the heads of the older kids watching their teachers using the computers. You could just tell that they cannot wait for their turn to "play" on the computers. I too, am very excited to go back to Humble tomorrow and have the opportunity to be there with the kids for their first experience using a computer.

Earlier in this trip, we had gone through DREAMS plans with some kids, and Mike shared that when asking kids what they want to be when they grow up, the vast majority of the kids respond with doctor, lawyer, teacher, pilot or footballer. What my sincere hope is that in the future, when FoDU visits these campuses, they start getting some kids responding with dreams of becoming a computer engineer or programmer or game designer. Right now, those dreams would be completely foreign to the kids. But as they start using the computer, playing games, using educational apps, the natural inquisitiveness and creativity of the kids will naturally draw them to these topics. 

The beautiful thing about computers and the internet is it levels the playing field of the entire world. Anyone with access can learn about almost anything, and that is a truly powerful, and potentially life-changing resource.

The things that I will remember from today is the sparkle in the eyes, the smiles on the faces, the clapping of hands and raising of arms when they successfully completed a task. Each basic skill they learned filled them with joy and they responded in kind. With teachers like these, that are so excited to learn and share, so caring of the kids, I have no doubt that our efforts here today will benefit kids at Humble for years and years to come.

A Special Birthday Celebration

By: Alyssa Winkles

Today was July 29th, our 4th day in Uganda, and overall, a great day! As soon as we arrived, all the kids came out jumping and screaming. That made my day, within 1 minute of being there. The emotion of happiness and excitement stayed with me the rest of the day. I got to deliver school supplies to the head teacher, teach the teachers about computers, play soccer with the boys (and get the first goal during the game ;D ), and one very exciting thing, celebrate my 12th birthday!

I thought they brought all of us into the room with the Staff of Humble just to introduce ourselves, but all of a sudden, 100 kids walked into the room singing “Happy Birthday” to me! They sang and brought in a huge teddy bear cake. The kids counted down from 12, when it got to 1, some kids and I cut into the huge cake. The teacher cut the cake into really small pieces, and I got serve the cake to the kids! I was SO joyful to be spending my birthday in Uganda with 250 kids! I couldn’t have wished for a better birthday. I will cherish this moment with the kids for a VERY long time! It was unforgettable! I can’t wait to see what the rest of the trip holds!

Music & Technology

By: Ravi Budruk

Today, the third day of our Uganda trip was spent at Wakiso Primary School on the outskirts of Kampala. Each day, my being has been emotionally flooded with feelings of excitement and happiness simply seeing the pure smiles on these kids’ faces. Yet, I have also been torn seeing the hardships and suffering many of these kids have experienced in their past or continue to experience due to lack of simple and basic human needs.

To welcome us this morning, our FoDU team was treated with entertainment by the kids of Wakiso. The entertainment consisted of two parts. First was a traditional eastern Ugandan choir performance about the process of making bark-clothes the women wear to cover up. The powerful song was performed by over 25 kids who were perfectly synchronized switching back and forth between girls voices and boys voices, between group singing and solo singing. This performance was followed by a traditional super energetic dance performed to African drum music with a simple but awesome beat. I have travelled the world and been entertained by both kids and adults alike in performances that have been perfectly orchestrated and enthralling. But today’s entertainment stood out as being the most soulful and energetic I have ever seen. As I observed the faces, smiles and body language of these kids, it was obvious that their entire being was singing and dancing. Their hearts cried with joy as they rocked theirs bodies in rhythm to the drum music. My chest vibrated with the rhythmic beats. I sat transfixed but caught my hands and feet rocking back and forth wishing to dance in freedom but forced to act with decorum knowing I was one of the chief guests expected to act and behave as one.

I experienced an almost trance-like state as I completely connected with the children who were expressing an unbridled and unfettered joy of being one with themselves, performing to their best and being the best. Finally with one last drumbeat and with one last song chorus, it was all over 45 minutes later and I came out of my transfixion.

But that is when my philosophical juices started flowing and continued throughout the day as we delivered computer training to both Wakiso schoolteachers and students. I found myself enjoying the process of observing the excitement with which everyone focused on the possibilities that our 30 donated computers could bring to them. Between demonstrating mouse and keyboard usage, windows functionality and Internet usage, I could not help but wonder why the morning children entertainment stood out as the most amazing soulful music and dance I had experienced.

By the end of the day I was certain about my conclusions. I recognized that the kids of Uganda we have experienced thus far are some of the most pure thinly layered personalities. They have nothing to prove to anyone. They are operating from ‘ground zero’ so to speak. They have nothing to lose and everything to gain. They have only forwards to march. They have no one to act for in any particular way except maybe their teachers. They are truly able to be themselves with no layers of ego or arrogance. It is from this base that the kids performed. This base-level has given the kids real freedom to express their inner warmth, their inner spirit, and their inner nature outwardly through the beaming smiles, powerful vocal expressions and energetic body movements. Perhaps, we can all learn from these kids of Wakiso about how to set ourselves free in our own unique ways so that we can smile, sing and dance as we maneuver our way through life.

Forming Bonds and Changing Hearts

By: Dani White

I have never been on a “mission trip” before though I know plenty of people who have. I had developed a general set of expectations but, so far, has proven to be nothing like what I expected. I am entirely thankful for that.

The outpouring of love from the little people we get to serve is wonderfully overwhelming. I knew my heart would be touched this week but I didn’t realize just how much. The first school we visited was wonderful. I made little friends who will remain on my heart forever.

The school we visited yesterday afternoon and all day today proved to be a bigger challenge and such a greater reward. Upon our arrival this morning, I could see that they were a bit rougher around the edges, their clothes more tattered, and their demeanor more combative. Immediately I judged them. Soon after I passed judgement, God turned my judgements on their head.

The day did begin a bit rough, there was some miscommunication and unexpected circumstances that led to me being alone in a room of wild Middle Class and Top Class students (ages 4-6). God sent me an angel to help me coral them. Her name was Tina. This Primary Two (second grade) student who had seemingly come out of nowhere translated and helped me to corral and relocate the others.

Tina and I spent most of the rest of the day together. She is one of the smartest, most clever, articulate, sassy little people I have ever met. She was wise beyond her years. While sitting on the grass out in front of the building that holds the classrooms (after she saved my life) I noticed both her ankles covered in large scars. She noticed me noticing and immediately covered them. I immediately told her that she was a beautiful young woman and she had nothing to be ashamed of.

Later in the afternoon I ended up with TIna, her sister Doreen and some of their friends. We had an in-depth discussion regarding the English language and the pronunciation of different words. The amount of laughter I experienced was wonderful. There was SO MUCH personality in that little group of girls.

After the group dissipated Tina and I talked a bit more. I showed her the scars I have accumulated over the years and she ended up showing me hers. We did not discuss the circumstances behind our scars but we discussed the beauty they cause. By the end of the day she showcased her scars proudly.

Today I learned far more from Tina, Doreen and those other girls than I could have ever possibly teach them. I can’t fathom never seeing them again after this week. I have no idea what the future holds but I know I want to see them again, many times. I want to be able to see them grow into the beautiful young women I am sure they will become

Education and Reality

By: Jennie Wellsand

It always amazes me to sit in on classes taking place at our primary (elementary) schools in Uganda. Today I had the opportunity to observe the P4 & P7 classes who were studying science & health. As the P4 classes went through questions that will be on their exams next week, I found myself baffled at not knowing a majority of the answers. Though I've been out of high school for more than 10 years, you'd think something would have stuck about photosynthesis! The children are eager to learn & almost every hand was raised when a teacher asked a question. My brother is a middle school teacher and I wish he was shown the same respect these students show their teachers. One day I hope he can experience the classrooms of Uganda! 

After classroom observations the boys were trained to be men of integrity. Last year when the Fields of Dreams team handed out hygiene kits to the girls at our partner schools we asked the ladies what some of their greatest struggles are as a young woman living in Uganda. Slightly saddened and shocked at the response, their greatest fears had to do with defilement & rape. These girls are between the ages of 10 & 14 years old. FoDU wants to help make an impact to change the next generation of Ugandans so these women don't have to grow up living in fear of what will happen to them in the future. During integrity training we spoke about what it meant to be intelligent, non judgmental, in charge of ones emotions, trust worthy & other characteristics of being a man of integrity. The training time with the boys ended with each of them looking into a mirror shouting, "I AM A MAN OF INTEGRITY!!!" Then they received a bracelet that reminds them of that saying. 

Some of the female FoDU team members were able to have discussions with the girls about being honored & dignified. We ended our time together making up a song that said "Girls of integrity are brave... strong ... & honored." The Head Teacher, Aunt Rose described to us what it's like to grow up as a young Ugandan woman to the point of marriage....though our cultures are similar, they are drastically different. It was somehow difficult to hear that some girls are married off at a young age, but encouraging to know that the efforts of Fields of Dreams Uganda is empowering these young people to dream of a brighter future & know the difference of right & wrong. Though FoDU is mostly a soccer organization, they go to great lengths ensuring their footballers are more than just athletes. They are role models, history makers & people who are going to make a positive impact in their community, culture & world. I was highly encouraged today by the maturity of the young people of Uganda. Hope is a basic need & I've seen hope shared through our team, the FoDU staff & people I've encountered since arriving in the Pearl of Africa. My hope is for you to experience this greatness one day!

Reflections from Leah

By: Leah Markel

Words cannot truly capture this experience for me.  Whenever I think I am going to sacrifice to be God’s hands and feet . . . I am always humbled as He pours out blessings upon me.  I have been given the experience of a lifetime in Uganda.  Not only is Field of Dreams Uganda an amazing organization, the team of individuals that I am serving with are outstanding and I have learned so much from them in such a short time.

Traveling to the New Kaabale Busega School has been beyond humbling.  I had an opportunity to assist a student with a Dreams Plan, get lots of hugs and hold lots of hands.  I was excited as I had an opportunity to observe a classroom and was thrilled to see the teacher doing a phenomenal job teaching the students health education and the dangers of smoking and passive smoking (second-hand smoke).  

Dreams Plans

In the midst of what many of us would consider extreme poverty and challenges these students thrive.  I observe great leadership and skill among the staff as they continually invest in these children who have been faced with extreme heartbreaks and hardships and I am inspired by each and every one.  My heart is thankful for every moment of this trip.

Reconnecting with Henry

By: John Warneke

Today I returned to Uganda wondering how things would be different since my first and only other visit 4 years ago. There was no change in where we are staying except for the room.  We didn't get to our room until 2 am and therefore didn't meet our other team members until breakfast.

Our only school to visit today was New Kabaale Busega which I had visited 4 years ago. We arrived in time for the church service.  The first hymns were in English and familiar.  These kids are so enthusiastic and put their whole being into whatever they do.

Right after the service I met Henry, a young man I had met 4 years ago.  He is now 14 and said he walked a mile today to spend time with me.  We spent time asking each other questions.  I do get frustrated many times because I can't understand what the kids are saying and have them to repeat themselves.

Henry and John

Later the kids put on some skits and included all of our names in one of them and were so energetic.  We also heard from 3 older talented football (soccer) players whose lives have changed because of Fields of Dreams.  They have HOPE they will be able to play football at the university level.  They are also already men of great character and integrity, as was witnessed in their time of sharing.

It is evident that the lives of the children at this campus have improved drastically since my last visit. This is noticeable in the smiles on their faces, but even outwardly in the way the campus looks and the children’s’ clothes and shoes. Rose and her staff do such a great job.

My high today was being able to reconnect with Henry, as I was disappointed in myself the way we said good bye last time.  I also was able to spend time one on one with a 10 year old girl and help her fill out her DREAMS plan.  She wants to be a doctor and help people, and it was a joy to give her my undivided attention and simply be present in her life for that short period of time.

I have loved having the younger team members on this journey. It has been fun to watch them interact with the children at our schools, and they all did a wonderful job speaking when they were often put on the spot.

My only low today was having trouble communicating with the kids and teachers.

Tomorrow will be another exciting day.  About 6 kids came up to me today and asked about my wife, Jjaja Pat. The children here have an incredible memory and do not forget the volunteers that come and spend time with them. I am moved by their love of my own family, and it was a joyous day to be back in their presence once again. 

Appreciating Joy

By: Robin Winkles

What a fantastic first day in country we had! If we had to get on a plane back to the US tonight, the experiences we had and the memories we made today were profound enough to last a lifetime. The moment we pulled onto the school campus, the children and staff of New Kabaale Busega Boarding School were lined up and ready to welcome us, and their hospitality and welcoming spirit never waned. We worshiped with them, we played soccer and frisbee and volleyball with them, we watched them sing and dance and play, and when the day was done, we had hundreds of photos of their infectious smiles and joy-filled eyes. And while those photos will forever serve as priceless reminders of our day at the school, no amount of photos could’ve ever done our day justice.

Robin with the students at New Kabaale Busega

Sitting through the worship service at the school first thing this morning and hearing the Ugandan children sing familiar hymns is something I know I’ll never forget. Watching my 13-year-old walk out of the church holding hands with her new Ugandan friends warmed my heart. Sitting down with my new friend, Douglas, helping him make plans for his future was both incredibly humbling and absolutely rewarding. And watching my 11-year-old play “the best soccer game I’ve ever played” with a huge group of Ugandan children simply made my day.

Alyssa playing soccer with new Ugandan friends

There’s so much we can learn from these kids, but what I really took from today was how important it is to appreciate the joy in the little things. If the joy I experienced today is any indication of what the rest of the week has in store for us, we're in for a real treat. And considering we’ll spend tomorrow with the same precious kiddos who made our day today, we’re in for a LOT more joy. :)

Kylie and the New Kabaale Busega students