Amy Green, Australia, Summer 2008

Personal Experiences:During my last few days in Uganda, as I said my farewells to those people who I had got to know and love during my stay, I shared with them the image of Uganda that I planned to present to my family and friends based on my experiences during my short visit. I hoped that my report would gain their approval and even took to asking them what they most wanted me to tell Australia about their country.

Uganda is a stunningly beautiful country – the landscape is gorgeous - mountains, green shrubbery, plantations – and the climate is so temperate – beautiful warm weather. However, the absolute highlight of my visit was the people. The Ugandan people are some of the most strong, inspirational and amazing people I have ever met. I met children and adults alike who could not have found themselves in worse scenarios yet managed to find a reason to smile and laugh every day. I was constantly reminded of how lucky I am to still have both my parents who were waiting desperately for me to return home and who still provide me with constant love and support. The people I met, regardless of the number of their material possessions, were willing to share everything with me – even if that everything amounted to a smile and open hand. I feel truly blessed to have been born in a position that has provided me with the opportunity to have met just a handful of these amazing people and I feel that it is my responsibility to share their stories – hardships, losses, hopes, triumphs and dreams - with the world.