The Association of United Efforts is truly blessed to have such a wonderful team of staff who care so deeply about the future of each child. None of the staff are paid. They volunteer their time and skills simply because they believe in this cause, and want to provide the youth with every possible opportunity to succeed.
Tayebwa Allan - President
Allan was one of the original three founders of The Association of United Efforts and is determined to see the Association grow and thrive. In the early days of ASUNEF, he walked long distances to find support in the community. Allan was perfect for this job, as he has an extraordinary ability to connect with anyone and everyone who has the fortune of meeting him. Though Allan has a gentle, soft-spoken demeanor, he overflows with passion and beams with pride when he speaks of the ASUNEF family. The children at ASUNEF look up to Allan, not only as a staff member, but as a mentor and friend as well. The children know where he came from, they see the way he has put himself into school through perseverance and compassion, and they want to be just like him. Allan has also completed a diploma in Theology and is currently studying at Kabale University for a Bachelors degree in Development. He hopes to use the skills and knowledge from the degree in development to continue to improve ASUNEF and its programs. It is rare to find a person who gives so selflessly each and every day when they have very little, but Allan is a perfect example of this. Allan has a heart of gold and ASUNEF is so lucky to have him.
Matsiko Justus - Vice President
Justus has been working with ASUNEF since 2008 and we are proud to have him stand as our Association Vice President. His experience in leadership and honest, compassionate character provide ASUNEF with direction, strength and integrity. Like the President of ASUNEF, Justus also earned a diploma in Theology. He grew up in Uganda as an orphan, but has taken control of his life and paved the way for himself - never giving in or giving up. Justus has an incredible ability to relate to our children and youth. When advising, he speaks of his own experience and assures the youth that their success may have been delayed but will never be denied. Justus believes in ASUNEF as a way to instill hope in a generation that was born into suffering. Justus gives each and every one of us at ASUNEF inspiration by reminding us that, "If everyone can play his part, though resources are limited, The Association of United Efforts will be a place to shelter all the distressed and wash their wounds for a better living."
Mugume Nicholas - Chairman
Nicholas has been the acting Chairman of the Association of United Efforts since 2006. We are incredibly fortunate to have an individual like him as a leader on our team. Though Nicholas is the only university graduate on our staff, he also remains one of the most warm, kind, down to earth individuals one will ever meet. Nicholas graduated from Makerere University and earned a degree in Education. We rely on his expertise and steadfast leadership when making decisions for the Association. It would be easy for Nicholas to take his degree elsewhere, but he chooses to devote himself to ASUNEF because of the great potential he sees in the children. The children can feel the hope Nicolas has for them and are inspired by it. They also admire his accomplishments, as well as the way Nicholas has stayed close to his humble beginnings. "As an Association," Nicholas says, "we have very big goals. Achieving these goals will require tremendous effort by all who are part of ASUNEF. In particular we need to ensure that everyone who joins us is given the opportunity and support to achieve their potential and success. Together let's join efforts to this noble cause. "
Mukiza Fred - Advisor
Mukiza Fred has been, not only a contributor, but also a father to our ASUNEF family. He is a constant supporter and encourager for the youth as well as the staff. Because he believes so strongly in ASUNEF, he has selflessly provided the Association with food, funds, and his very own land. Currently, the children and staff meet at Fred's house for all programs. His home acts as a second home for so many people. Without Fred, ASUNEF would not be able to create programs such as goat rearing and the poultry farm. On a daily basis, Fred goes far beyond his responsibilities - sometimes even taking over work in the absence of others. He wants to see ASUNEF constantly moving forward and will not allow it to remain idle. Fred's drive and perseverance are invaluable elements to our team and we cannot thank him enough. "Since 2005, it has been an exciting journey with countless challenges along the way, but each of them has equipped us for the journey that lies ahead." Through teamwork, Fred believes that the best achievements for the ASUNEF family lie in the future. His desire is to have more volunteers who can join these efforts to lift up our children.
Leah Katz - Volunteer
On behalf of ASUNEF, and indeed on my behalf as the President, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our first volunteer, Leah Katz. On June 10, 2010, by divine connection, Leah contacted me inquiring about study at my University. I could not believe my eyes when, at last, I saw her in person in the office of the Dean of Education at Kabale University. As we continued to interact, I was awed by this determined person who came up with innovative ideas for ASUNEF each time we met. I think she came, not only for studies, but also to encourage ASUNEF. Leah will be in Uganda for ten months, but in her short time here already, she has worked tirelessly, along with me, to create this very website, which has not been an easy task. She has visited our Association, taken hundreds of photographs, videotaped our activities, and enjoyed getting to know our wonderful children and staff.
Leah has been a restless person. Her mind never seems satisfied when it comes to helping others. She is always sharp, always visionary, always passionate, but extremely rational and calm.
It has been so much from one person. Her accomplishments are legion and legendary. The Association bows, not in worship of a hero, but in love and gratitude that a person such as Leah Katz, has walked among us. She is one we will all surely enjoy spending more time with in the months to come.
Leah has been a restless person. Her mind never seems satisfied when it comes to helping others. She is always sharp, always visionary, always passionate, but extremely rational and calm.
It has been so much from one person. Her accomplishments are legion and legendary. The Association bows, not in worship of a hero, but in love and gratitude that a person such as Leah Katz, has walked among us. She is one we will all surely enjoy spending more time with in the months to come.
