The Aliguma Foundation continues to make waves on the global stage, thanks to its founder, Ritah Aliguma. Last year, Ritah successfully participated in the Global Sports Mentoring Programme (GSMP), an experience that has not only transformed her outlook but has also illuminated the path for the foundation’s projects and campaigns.
Women With Power: Aliguma Foundation Founder Ritah Aliguma (first left, seated) after a session and visit by Deputy Assistant Secretary Nicole Elkon (standing, black suit). (All Photos/U.S. Department of State in cooperation with University of Tennessee Center for Sport, Peace, & Society. Photographer: Jaron Johns)
Earlier this week on October 21, Ritah flew to Washington, D.C., on the invitation of the U.S. Department of State, where she has had the honour of being the torchbearer for the 2024 GSMP intake under the theme; “Empowering Women Exemplary Alumnus.”
In an email from Morgan Irish-George, Media and Content Manager for the Center for Sport, Peace, & Society at the University of Tennessee, Ritah was congratulated for her tremendous efforts in leveraging sports to improve the lives of women, girls, and people with disabilities in Uganda.
Morgan emphasized; “Ritah’s dedication and passion for using sports as a tool for social change exemplify the spirit of the GSMP. We are thrilled to have her share her journey with the next generation of leaders.”
In bits, Morgan’s email read; “We are honoured to invite you to pass the symbolic torch to your 2024 GSMP sisters during the Empowering Women orientation week (October 22-27) in Washington D.C.”
Introduction To The Programme: Ritah Aliguma (standing left) and some of the 2023 GSMP intake graduates conduct the intros session in a very light way at Anthony Bowen, YMCA.
Power of change
Ritah expressed her excitement about the opportunity, stating; “I am excited for this invite. It is proof that Aliguma Foundation has grown leaps and bounds since its initiation in 2017.”
She aims to share her real-life experiences, saying; “The 2023 GSMP experience has helped us work smarter and provide better for the less privileged. I am going to tell them about our Soccer Slums Campaign and how it has changed the livelihoods of teenagers. Many of them now use football as a tool of reconciliation with their families, and some have even won scholarships to go back to school through the beautiful game.”
In addition to the Soccer Slums Campaign, Ritah plans to highlight the foundation's new partnerships and projects, including the Environmental Defenders initiative that the foundation runs alongside USAID, Tufts University, and Makerere University.
Survival For The Fittest: Ritah sizes up the instructor in one of the physical fitness sessions.
“It’s going to be a learning experience for me as well,” she shared. “I hope to learn more from them about how we can empower the girl child without forgetting the boy child.”
Fostering inclusion
Morgan also recognized the significance of Ritah’s contributions, stating; “Ritah’s work is not just impactful; it is a beacon of hope for many young girls and women in Uganda. Her story resonates with global audiences and shows how sports can bridge gaps and foster inclusion.”
As the foundation continues its good works, Ritah's participation in the GSMP serves as a testament to the impact of its programs and campaigns.
“This invitation reflects the growing recognition of our work, not just by local funders but by global trendsetters and policymakers who are intent on supporting our mission,” Ritah noted.
Everything & All: A combo of images from the GSMP Class of 2023 and that of 2024 thus far.
This week in Washington, D.C., promises to be one of unlearning and learning new things alongside the 2024 intake, further enriching the foundation's mission to empower and uplift communities.
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