MEMBERSHIP

Stories from our new members

Rtn. CHRIS KAMUKAMA

I embarked on my Rotary journey as a charter member of Rotaract Nakawa in 1992. This early involvement laid the foundation for my deep love and enjoyment of being part of the Rotary family. In 1994, I had the honour of becoming the charter president of Rotaract Mengo, further solidifying my commitment to Rotary’s values and mission.

Not so long ago, an exciting opportunity presented itself through CMP Evans, leading me to join the Rotary Club of Kampala Springs. This club has quickly become my second home, where I find great joy in bringing smiles to the faces of the underprivileged.

One of the most memorable moments in my Rotary journey was my induction ceremony on MV Nodl, a boat sailing on Lake Victoria.

It was a truly wonderful experience being inducted into Rotary by District Governor Mike Kennedy, someone I have known and for a long time. The vibrant fellowships and insightful guest speakers have been instrumental in shaping my Rotary experience. Additionally, I am an active member of the “Kimeza” committee, which has further enriched my involvement.

I have had the privilege of participating in various impactful projects. One standout experience was the handover ceremony of the Luzira Health Centre IV. Witnessing the positive impact Rotary has on the community was truly heart-warming. Another noteworthy project took place at Rwabutura Primary School in Sheema, where I witnessed children being taught hands on skills in agriculture and all of this is due to the invaluable mentorship provided by Rotarians.

Attending the District Conference (Discon) has been a highlight of my Rotary journey. It has provided me with the opportunity to reconnect with amazing friends I have known for years, even before our Rotary days.

Overall, my Rotary journey has been a transformative and fulfilling experience, allowing me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others while forging lifelong connections with like-minded individuals.

The idea of Rotary uniting individuals from diverse backgrounds to selflessly serve others resonated deeply with me. Witnessing the dedication of Rotarians, who willingly invest their resources and make personal sacrifices to bring smiles and hope to unknown faces, inspired me to become a part of this remarkable organization. I recognized that by joining Rotary, I could amplify my impact and contribute to uplifting the less privileged. As an individual, I realized that my ability to make a substantial difference in my community was limited. However, through Rotary, I discovered the power of collaboration. By pooling resources and working together, Rotarians create extraordinary projects that bring joy and positive change to countless lives.

One of the most remarkable aspects of being a Rotarian is the opportunity to meet and interact with people from various positions of prominence and service. These connections have broadened my perspective and provided valuable insights into different fields of expertise. Engaging with such individuals has been truly inspiring and has expanded my network in meaningful ways. Rotary is more than just an organization; it is a family. The sense of support within the

Rotary community is unparalleled. I have witnessed Rotarians standing by each other during both triumphs and challenges, offering unwavering support and encouragement. The genuine care and compassion demonstrated by fellow Rotarians make the Rotary journey even more rewarding. Lastly, being part of Rotary encourages personal growth and self-improvement. Surrounded by individuals who dedicate their time and resources to serve others, I am motivated to strive for excellence in all aspects of my life.

I joined Rotary with the intention of giving back to society through an organized and accountable institution. Trust was paramount for me, as I wanted to ensure that my contributions were being used effectively and responsibly. Rotary’s commitment to transparency and the opportunity to actively participate in projects from start to finish gave me the confidence and peace of mind I was looking for. Additionally, the collective impact achieved through Rotary’s vast network of contributors further motivated me to join and be part of something greater.

Though my time as a Rotarian has been relatively short, it has been filled with enriching experiences. The Rotary fellowship meetings have provided me with valuable insights and knowledge. Through these presentations, I have been inspired to explore new ideas, challenge myself, and think creatively about addressing societal issues.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a Rotarian is seeing projects come to life. Witnessing the tangible impact these initiatives have on communities has been a humbling and gratifying experience, reminding me of the incredible difference we can make when we come together. Rotary has pushed me to step out of my comfort zone. Through active participation in club activities, I have discovered new strengths and abilities within myself. This personal growth has not only benefited me as an individual but has also empowered me to contribute more effectively to the causes I am passionate about.

Additionally, it has introduced me to a diverse group of individuals who share a common passion for service. Building connections and friendships with like-minded people has been a highlight of my Rotary journey. These connections have expanded my professional network and enriched my perspective on the world.

When I first joined Rotary, I discovered a platform that offered much more than just giving back. It became a source of joy and fulfillment for me. I realized that through Rotary, I could have fun while supporting the underprivileged and making a genuine difference in their lives.

The vast network of the Rotary family immediately captivated me. I recognized the immense value of connecting with like-minded individuals who shared my passion for service. Rotary not only provided me with opportunities to make a difference but also opened doors for expanding my business ventures.

Throughout my Rotary journey, I have been fortunate to achieve significant milestones that have left a lasting impact. One of my most rewarding experiences was being part of the BELEP project. Together with a dedicated team, we successfully delivered reading materials to Luzira Church of Uganda Primary School and Luzira Prisons. Witnessing the transformative power of education firsthand was a reminder of the barriers it can break and the brighter futures it can create.

With my fellow Rotarians, we took on the ambitious task of building a theater and maternity ward at Luzira Upper Prisons. This endeavor brought smiles, hope, and a sense of dignity to the community it serves, reminding them that they too deserve care and compassion. Witnessing the impact of this project filled me with immense joy and satisfaction.

My participation in the prestigious 98th Discon in Mbarara was a game-changer. It provided me with a global perspective and expanded my understanding of service on an international scale. I had the pleasure of forging a meaningful friendship with a Tanzanian gentleman, reminding me of the incredible connections Rotary fosters beyond borders.

Rtn. NOELA BYUMA

In September 2022, I became a proud member of the Rotary family, finding my place within the esteemed Kampala Springs Club. Prior to that, I had the privilege of attending online fellowships with RC Kiwatule during the challenging times of the Covid-19 pandemic. It was during these virtual gatherings that a workmate shared captivating stories about how Rotary’s service had transformed his life.

Coinciding with my first fellowship at Kampala Springs was the launch of a project aimed at refurbishing Luzira Health Center IV. Having been exposed to similar initiatives through my career in the telecom industry’s Community Social Responsibility programs, I initially viewed this project as another undertaking within my comfort zone. However, it was the heartfelt testimonials of the mothers and community members who continued to rely on the facility despite its dilapidated state that completely transformed my perspective. Their stories illuminated the true power of selfless service and compelled me to see, understand, and appreciate the profound impact we can have on the lives of others.

Leaving that day, a single question lingered in my mind: If not now, when? I realized that the change we hope to see in the world begins with our actions in the present. Filled with excitement and a renewed sense of purpose, I embarked on this Rotary journey, embracing the opportunities it presents and the collective change we can create to make the world a better place.

The Four-Way Test struck a chord with me, and I experienced its profound effect firsthand. In 2014, a close friend who happened to be a Rotarian borrowed money from me and refused to repay it. Remembering the Four-Way Test, I asked her to recite it. The weight of its principles touched her deeply, prompting her to not only repay the debt but also reflect on her actions. This encounter made me realize that Rotary’s values aligned with my own, inspiring me to become a Rotarian.

Being a part of Rotary has allowed me to engage with a diverse array of individuals, including doctors, engineers, social workers, lawyers, executives, and political leaders. These interactions have broadened my perspective and provided me with valuable opportunities to make a difference. Moreover, within my Rotary club, I have found a remarkable community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about fighting hunger, reducing maternal mortality rates, and improving literacy. Their dedication and zest for service have been a constant source of inspiration.

My Rotary journey has also enabled personal growth. Through leadership roles, I have developed invaluable skills in teamwork, effective communication, and motivation. These skills empower me to guide and inspire others.

The warmth and enthusiasm with which I was welcomed by the Springers, including District Governor Mike Kennedy Sabalu, during a memorable boat cruise on Lake Victoria, set the tone for my Rotary experience. The event marked the induction of ten new members, including the celebrated “golden girl.” The camaraderie and sense of belonging within my club have truly enriched my journey.

Furthermore, the 98th DISCON in Mbarara was a remarkable event that left a lasting impression. The numerous accolades our club received and the extreme fun we experienced amplified my commitment to serving others. This event served as a catalyst, propelling me to strive for greater heights and expand my service beyond the club.

Rtn. LEONARD KAYONGO

Induction on a boat

Early in the induction week, I received an enthusiastic call from my mentor, Rtn Nkinzi, informing me that our Rotary induction would take place on a boat. She emphasized the importance of attending and assured me it would be a lot of fun. However, as the event drew closer, another call from AP left no room for negotiation. Attendance was mandatory, despite the meetings and deliverables I had planned.

The idea of an induction on a boat immediately brought back memories of the unfortunate MV Templar incident in 2018, which filled me with doubts and concerns. What kind of boat would it be? What route would we take? Would the party go on late into the night? In my mind, alcohol, a boat, and a lively crowd didn’t always mix well. With a mixture of apprehension and curiosity, I made my way to Entebbe on the morning of October 6, 2022. Arriving at Nakiwogo landing site with time to spare, I took a moment to check on my acquaintances in Entebbe before heading to the pier. As I approached, I was pleasantly surprised to be greeted by beautiful stewardesses, exuding professionalism in both their appearance and demeanor.

The boat, from the outside, appeared new and well-maintained. Inside, it was adorned with white and purple balloons, creating an inviting atmosphere. Clean green carpets covered the floors and walkways, while the lower deck boasted comfortable leather seats, and the upper deck featured cozy cloth seats. On the upper deck, I spotted AP, checking everything with a mix of anticipation and anxiety, perhaps wondering if the event would be a success. Any lingering doubts vanished as Rotarians Ham and Raymond, the dynamic duo known for lighting up a room, arrived. Their infectious energy reassured me that this would indeed be a memorable occasion. And when Nkinzi, Linda, the Golden Gal, and their friends joined in, it became evident that we were in for an extraordinary party. Around 2:00 PM, the boat set sail onto the open lake. The more formal aspects of the event were swiftly addressed in what could be considered the shortest board meeting in corporate history. On the open-air end of the upper deck, DG Mike Sebalu, our esteemed guest of honor, delivered a speech. He commended AP and her team for their accomplishments while offering constructive feedback for improvement. Most importantly, he encouraged us to maintain the club’s enthusiasm and commitment to doing good in the world. Looking around the crowd, it was clear that his words resonated deeply with everyone present. Lunch passed by in a blur. Approaching the bar, I marveled at the variety of beverages on display and silently made a note to propose a budget increase for next year’s induction. Just as I was regretting not bringing my own bottle, Rtn Phoebe noticed my disappointment and kindly directed me to Rtn Dennis, who had a stash of the good stuff on the lower deck. Descending to the lower deck, I found the party already in full swing. Guests were dancing in the walkways, reminiscent of the lively atmosphere on Don Cornellius’ Soul Train. Rtn Dennis was in his element, generously pouring glasses of Gold Reserve. The demand became so overwhelming that he eventually enlisted the help of one of the waitresses. Eagerly, I joined the queue.

Around 4:00 PM, AP called for everyone’s attention. It was time for the invocation to be held on the open part of the upper deck. As inductees, we were asked to gather at the front, where Rtn Lynda, our indefatigable Membership Director, proceeded to share kind words about each of us. One by one, we were called forward to approach DG Mike. Clad in a beach shirt, white pants, and a cream cowboy hat, he affixed a Rotary pin to the collar of our shirts or dresses, officially making us Rotarians. The buddy groups erupted with thunderous cheers and ululations.

Later, leaning against the railing on the upper deck, I watched the gentle breeze brush against my face as I gazed out across the lake. It dawned on me that I had become part of an exclusive group of individuals dedicated to selflessly making the world a better place. The party continued in full swing. Members from Kampala South and other clubs joined us, amplifying the festive atmosphere. Guests danced to the latest Ugandan and Nigerian tracks wherever they found space, capturing memories against the picturesque backdrop of the lake. Conversations flowed, drinks poured freely, and laughter filled the air.

Around 6:30 PM, the boat docked at the pier, much to the disappointment of revelers who hadn’t realized we had already turned around and were heading back to the starting point. As guests disembarked, Rtn Charles Odaga and CP Dorothy led a group in singing several beautiful renditions of Ruger’s “Girlfriend” on the pier, capturing the attention of onlookers.

As I drove back to Kampala, a lasting memory of the event remained with me: AP, standing near the cockpit of the boat, wearing a secret smile akin to a cat that had swallowed the canary. I would be remiss if I didn’t express my gratitude to Rtn Chris for generously offering his boat for the event. Thanks to Chris and his team, our induction became an unforgettable experience.