Footprints Podcast Series

Living in the moment and savoring the present is important, but we must remember that nothing is guaranteed. In this episode of the Footprints Podcast, Ms. Judy Ann Kamanyi imparts wisdom from her decades of leadership across various platforms and reflects on the significance of preparedness in the face of change. Ms. Judy's leadership journey began in her teenage years at Gayaza High School, where her potential was recognized by her teachers. She served as a junior-level prefect, received a leadership award, and was later appointed Deputy Head Girl during her senior five. As an expert in social development, gender equality, and governance, she advocated for the education of girls, campaigned against the discrimination of women in politics, and fought against unpunished sexual crimes towards women. Ms. Judy looks back on proud moments such as her contributions to women attaining positions in parliament. However, she also acknowledges her regrets for instances where she could have done more, particularly regarding the prevalent vagueness and ambivalence over topics like The Girl Child. She notes that despite the passage of time, people still seem to misunderstand the significance of these pressing issues. She questions whether she missed something critical that could have altered the outcome she sees today, believing that more focus on The Girl Child might have made a difference. Despite this, she asserts that as leaders, it is impractical to always blame themselves for the outcomes of their work. While it is right to take responsibility, there are always many other factors at play. A leader must make peace with the fact that certain issues cannot be completely solved in one day. Ms. Judy shared that she held various positions in the public and private sectors, as well as in non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and is currently employed as a consultant. Interestingly, she never prepared for any of these transitions, always focusing on the present and seamlessly moving into new roles. However, she now acknowledges that this approach may have been unwise, as change can bring about unpredictable outcomes. Though she had previously neglected the significance of life's transitions, she has since learned to appreciate the value of planning, especially given her dynamic work schedules. "One should not take things for granted," she advised. She, like many others, had failed to address her previous transitions and had not devoted adequate time to prepare for them. Although most of her transitions had been relatively seamless, she recognized that sudden changes could be detrimental to many, leaving them in a state of shock. A sudden job loss, for example, could leave one vulnerable if they had not made contingency plans. Ms. Judy's recognition of the human tendency to avoid difficult topics is significant. As she had experienced, it is a challenge to consider the implications of unexpected events such as job loss or inevitable death. Her emphasis on the value of intentionally asking ourselves difficult questions and planning for every stage of life transition is crucial. We must take the time to reflect regularly and incorporate succession and backup plans into our daily routine. By doing so, we can better equip ourselves to be Change Ready. ©Blurb written by Divine Karungi _ For more information on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ CivSource Africa's⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Change Ready initiative ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ _ #footprintspodcastseries #legacies #transitions #successionplaning #Leadership #FootprintsPodcast #WomenInLeadership #Inspiration #Resilience

Most people think of retirement as the end, but it might just be the beginning. In this episode of Footprints, Robby Muhumuza shares his leadership journey, strategic decisions, and truths about misconceptions that cause struggles during and after retirement. From an early love of stories in Bushenyi, Robby developed into a skilled leader. He served as Head of the Scripture Union and Editor in Chief at Makerere College. Robby worked at World Vision for 23 years, witnessing many transitions and learning to manage them effectively. Robby prepared for retirement through planning classes, journaling, living below his means, and investing in savings schemes. When he unexpectedly retired at 50 due to restructuring, he was well-prepared. He engaged in consultancy, invested in real estate, and took financial literacy classes. Robby’s retirement is comfortable, with steady income from investments. He advises planning for retirement early, budgeting, saving, and investing in health insurance. He also warns against relying on children as a backup plan and investing in large houses that can become financial burdens. Robby’s journey demonstrates that intentional planning and reflection are key to thriving in retirement. _ For more information on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ CivSource Africa's⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Change Ready initiative ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ _ #footprintspodcastseries #legacies #transitions #successionplaning #Leadership #FootprintsPodcast #WomenInLeadership #Inspiration #Resilience

In this compelling episode of the Footprints podcast, we sit down with Honorable Doctor Miria Koburunga Matembe as she shares her extraordinary life journey, motivations, and insights into finding peace amidst life's inevitable transitions. With remarkable candor and charisma, Doctor Matembe underscores the power of her voice in fighting discrimination and violence against women, challenging societal norms that undervalue women unless they bear male children or bring dowry to their families. Born as the fourth child in a family of nine in rural Bwizibwera Kashari, Doctor Matembe's path was far from easy. Despite the obstacles, including the prioritization of her brothers' education over hers, she pursued her dream of becoming a lawyer dedicated to advocating for women and girls. Her tenacity led her from village school to Namasagali College, and eventually, a distinguished career in law and politics. Doctor Matembe's achievements are numerous. As the Minister for Ethics and Integrity from 1998 to 2003, she played a crucial role in ensuring the Ugandan constitution addressed women's rights, including education and equal political opportunities. Her efforts in parliament led to the adoption of gender-neutral language and the acceptance of pantsuits as formal attire for women. Internationally recognized, she received a standing ovation at the 1995 Women’s Conference in Beijing for her advocacy. However, her journey was not without challenges. Her unwavering integrity and opposition to the removal of term limits led to her abrupt and unfair dismissal from politics after two decades of service. Despite the hardships, Doctor Matembe found new purpose and continued her advocacy through Action for Development (ACFODE) and other women's organizations. Honorable Doctor Matembe's story is a testament to faith, resilience, and the enduring power of one's voice in the face of adversity. _ Join us for Episode 4, Part 2, as she offers invaluable wisdom on leadership, personal growth, and the relentless pursuit of justice for women everywhere. _ For more information on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ CivSource Africa's⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Change Ready initiative ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ _ #footprintspodcastseries #legacies #transitions #successionplaning #Leadership #FootprintsPodcast #WomenInLeadership #Inspiration #Resilience

In this latest episode of the Footprints podcast, we delve into the remarkable life of Hon. Dr. Miria Koburunga Matembe! From her modest rural beginnings as one of nine children to breaking societal norms and rising as a fierce advocate for women's rights, Dr. Matembe candidly shares her story with charisma and insight. She reveals her motivations, triumphs, and how she found peace after an abrupt political exit, staying resilient through faith and determination. Learn how she challenged biases that valued women only if they bore sons or brought dowry, and how she ensured the constitution safeguarded women's rights as the Minister of Ethics and Integrity. Her unwavering fight for equality shaped policies, empowered women to step up, and brought international recognition. 🎧 Tune in for timeless wisdom on navigating life's challenges, standing firm on values, and using your voice for change. _ For more information on⁠⁠⁠⁠ CivSource Africa's⁠⁠⁠⁠ Change Ready initiative ⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠ _ #footprintspodcastseries #legacies #transitions #successionplaning #Leadership #FootprintsPodcast #WomenInLeadership #Inspiration #Resilience

The lack of purposefulness in many people is probably the biggest reason why our society is in a state of stagnation. This episode of the Footprints Podcast features Ian Clarke, an Irish Ugandan doctor and missionary. He shares his experiences from his 72 years of life, alongside the visions that propelled him to strive for his goals, bringing forth transformation as a leader. As a doctor, he came to know of the AIDS pandemic scourging the population in Uganda. He arrived alongside the Church Missionary Society in 1987 and was devastated; seeing the cruel nature of the disease firsthand in a community, Luweero, that was in a state of acclimatization, bearing the aftermath of the recent bush war. As an individual highly motivated by having an impact on society, he ran a charitable hospital, treating the ailing as best as he could. Unfortunately, so many still died of the disease, including some of his colleagues which he found extremely emotionally traumatic. Leaving the country for London, Ian Clarke pursued a Master's degree in Public Health. He started a clinic at the Kampala Pentecostal Church building in Kampala upon his return. He developed the clinic into a hospital; International Hospital Kampala, and also set up Clarke University with a nursing school, following his belief in the need to bring forth substantial change through quality healthcare and education. In 2011, Ian Clarke served as the Mayor of Makindye Division. Determined to repair the dilapidated roads, he was extremely hands-on, as he engaged with the technical workers like the truck drivers, even offering his own, to ensure all the potholes were filed by the time his term in office had elapsed. He says that leaders must “Get on with it” and do the work to make change. Ian Clarke states that he will not retire any time soon, but rather focuses on the fact that life is made of seasons, for which one must be purposeful and intentional with each transition. Reflecting on his decision to come to Uganda with the resolve to save lives as a doctor at the height of the AIDS pandemic, build good roads for his community, and settle in Uganda, he is proud of the impact he has made. It can be said, looking back on his journey, that leaders can only find fulfillment if they first find what drives them; pursuing it relentlessly, with intentionality, and openness to learning. _ For more information on⁠⁠ CivSource Africa's⁠⁠ Change Ready initiative ⁠⁠CLICK HERE⁠⁠ _ #footprintspodcastseries #legacies #transitions #successionplaning

In the latest episode of the Footprints Podcast, Mrs. Joyie Mugarura, affectionately known as Auntie Joy, shares her inspiring life story. Raised in a devout Christian environment, she faced significant challenges transitioning back to Uganda from Canada, where she navigated financial hardships with resilience and integrity. Choosing to resign to better focus on her family, she started a home-based bakery. Demonstrating shrewd financial acumen, she managed her family's finances through tough times, ultimately purchasing land and overseeing the construction of their home. Auntie Joy's journey is a powerful testament to living a life of faith, integrity, and leadership, profoundly impacting her community and family. _ For more information on⁠ CivSource Africa's⁠ Change Ready initiative ⁠CLICK HERE⁠ _ #footprintspodcast series #legacies #transitions #successionplaning

Join us on the inaugural episode of the Footprints podcast as Reverend Canon Benoni Mugarura Mutana, fondly known as Uncle Ben, shares his remarkable journey as an ordained priest in the Anglican Church. Discover Uncle Ben's early realization of his leadership potential and his unwavering commitment to revolutionizing music within the church to reach the youth. Despite facing resistance, his perseverance and innovative approach left a lasting impact on the community. As Uncle Ben retired after 50 years of service, he reflects on the challenges of transition, including financial uncertainties. Yet, his foresight and careful planning with his wife ensured a smoother transition, emphasizing the importance of preparation for life's inevitable changes. While Uncle Ben's journey highlights the realities of the employment sector, it also underscores the necessity of faith, perseverance, and responsibility. Ultimately, Uncle Ben's story teaches us the significance of finding our gifts, creating change, and cultivating leaders, while emphasizing the importance of teamwork and leaving a lasting legacy. _ For more information on CivSource Africa's Change ready initiative CLICK HERE _ #footprints #legacies #transitions #successionplaning #transitions