A Message from Our Founder: The Road to 2026

Dear Friends and Partners,

Reflecting on the past few months, I am filled with immense gratitude for the growth Rwenzori United Youth Association-RUYA has experienced. Since our founding in 2017, our mission has been to empower the marginalized youth and children of the Rwenzori region.

I am thrilled to share that we are officially on the path to upgrading from a Community-Based Organization (CBO) to a full Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) by late 2026. This transition will grant us the permits needed to expand our reach and deepen our impact across Uganda. Thank you for walking this journey with us as we evolve to serve more lives with dignity and excellence.

— Oswarudo, Founder of RUYA

Keep a Child in School: Expanding Our Reach

Education is the greatest equalizer, but for many, the path to the classroom is paved with obstacles. This quarter, we highlight the incredible resilience of our learners and the expanding reach of our "Keep a Child in School" initiative.

  1. Regina’s Unstoppable Spirit: Regina, who lives with Sickle Cell Disease, remains a beacon of hope. Despite her health hurdles, she stays focused on finishing school with RUYA’s support.
  2. Nyamighera Vocational SS & St. Maria Goreti SS: We are proud to have supported students at these institutions in Bwera, ensuring they have the tools to succeed in both vocational and secondary education.
  3. St. John Paul Bunyiswa Primary School: Our impact reached the youngest learners here, providing them with a solid foundation for their academic journeys.
  4. Essential Supplies for Success: Across these schools, learners received vital scholastic materials.

  5. Support for Young Mothers: Recognizing the unique challenges faced by young mothers in school, we provided targeted distributions of soap and sanitary pads to help them maintain their health and dignity while continuing their studies.

    Partnership for Protection: RUYA & SNUPA

    Health and safety are fundamental rights, especially for those living with albinism in our region. We are proud to announce a vital partnership with the Source of the Nile Union of Persons with Albinism (SNUPA).Through this collaboration, we have secured life-saving protection for our youth and children.

    Ultrasun Extreme SPF 50+: Thanks to a generous donation from SNUPA, we distributed high-quality sunscreen to our beneficiaries. Maria, Leonsio and others. This donation is especially critical for young Maria and Leonsio, providing them with the medical-grade protection their sensitive skin requires. These supplies, along with protective gear like wide-brimmed hats, are essential in our fight against skin cancer and social exclusion.

    Empowering Mothers, Transforming Families

    Our commitment to social justice extends to the heart of the home, single mothers. Over the last few months, our empowerment program has brought together young mothers from across the region to build community and share skills.

    Economic Advocacy: We continue to focus on providing tools for independent living and social justice.

    Digital Marketing: We are developing a social media and mobile app strategy to help these mothers market their handmade products, such as reusable sanitary pads.

    Support Networks: Recent gatherings have focused on creating a sisterhood where mothers find the dignity and emotional support necessary to raise the next generation.

    Looking Ahead: The 2026 Fundraising Launch

    The work we do is only possible because of your belief in our vision. As we look toward the remainder of the year, we are preparing for our Official 2026 Fundraising Launch.

    This event will serve as a forum to secure the resources needed for our transition to NGO status and the expansion of our "Business Hubs" social enterprise.

                                  How You Can Help:

    Spread the Word: Share Regina’s story or our work with albinism on your social networks.

    Partner With Us: We are actively seeking partnerships with organizations like the Red Cross and local stakeholders to amplify our impact.

    Donate: Your contributions directly fund school fees, medical supplies, and vocational training for those who need it most.

    Together, we are creating a world where every youth has the power to thrive.

        With hope and determination, 

                The RUYA Team