In rural Uganda, education opportunities are limited, and many young people face barriers that make continuing school a challenge. Families often rely on unpredictable daily labor to meet basic needs, and for many youth, formal education ends early. Without guidance, resources, or opportunities, these young people risk being left behind in communities that need them most. In a country where over 70% of the population is under 30, investing in young adults is more important than ever.
That’s why, across Uganda, Children’s HopeChest is helping change that narrative through vocational training programs that equip young adults with practical skills, economic independence, and hope for the future. One story that illustrates this transformation is Simon’s.
Meet Simon
Simon grew up in a family of eight children, where opportunities for education were scarce. His parents worked tirelessly in casual labor, often in local gardens, but income was inconsistent and affected by seasonal changes. For Simon, pursuing education beyond primary school felt almost impossible.
Through the support of Children’s HopeChest, Simon enrolled in a vocational training program focused on construction, including bricklaying and concrete practice. The program covered his school fees, materials, and boarding costs, allowing him to complete his course and earn certification as a qualified builder…the first in his family to accomplish this!!
“Without support from Children’s HopeChest, I would now be a wasted youth in the community,” Simon shared. “I thank God for Children’s HopeChest that paid all my school fees and requirements until I completed my course.”
For Simon, completing his vocational course opened doors not only for his personal growth but also for his family. He is now working in construction and saving to build a permanent home for his parents, a goal that would have been unattainable without the training and support he received.
This ripple effect extends beyond individual families. As more young adults acquire vocational skills, communities benefit from skilled labor, economic participation, and stronger households. Programs like these also help reduce unemployment, improve resilience, and inspire younger generations to pursue education and training themselves.
"I want to become an example of change in my family."
Skills That Build Futures
Simon’s story is not unique. Across Uganda, hundreds of young adults are gaining vocational skills through Children’s HopeChest programs. From construction to tailoring, agriculture to mechanics, these programs empower youth to become financially independent, support their families, and contribute to the economic growth of their communities.
Vocational training provides more than just technical skills. It teaches problem-solving, perseverance, and professionalism, preparing young adults to thrive in workplaces and communities that often lack resources or opportunities. In regions where poverty and instability limit options, these programs are a lifeline, turning potential risk into promise.
Looking Ahead
Simon is just one of many young adults proving that with the right resources, training, and mentorship, potential can turn into progress. These programs demonstrate that hope is not abstract—it is practical, actionable, and transformative. By learning a skill, earning a living, and supporting their families, young adults like Simon are not only changing their own lives but also contributing to the development of stronger, more resilient communities.
Thank you for building hope in lives like Simon’s. Your support ensures that vocational skills turn into opportunity, education into independence, and potential into progress.
