At the Noble Youth Foundation (NOYU), we believe that the true measure of our impact lies in the stories of the people we serve. These are not just statistics or case studies—they are real lives transformed through empowerment, education, and opportunity.
Since our founding in 2013, we have worked alongside communities across the Lango Sub-Region, responding to the challenges of conflict, poverty, climate change and limited access to healthcare and education.
Through our programmes and projects, we have witnessed remarkable transformations as young people discover their potential and take control of their futures.
The following Most Significant Change (MSC) stories have been collected from participants in our “I Decide” project, implemented in partnership with Plan International.
These testimonials capture the profound and lasting changes that occur when young people are given the knowledge, skills, and support they need to thrive.
Each story is unique, yet together they tell a powerful narrative of hope, resilience, and the enduring spirit of Uganda’s youth.
We are proud to share these stories with you.
Before the Project
My name is Fiona Acen. I am 21 years old, married, and a mother of three children, though one passed away. I live in Alyet Parish, Agali Sub County, in Lira District, Uganda. I completed my primary education at Gomi Primary School in 2014, but my grades were not sufficient for further education or vocational training. Due to my family's financial constraints, I was unable to continue my education. This disappointment led to a period of idleness, during which I fell into bad company and frequently participated in unproductive activities.
How I Became Involved
In December 2023, our Local Council One (LC1) organised a community meeting for school dropouts, introducing us to Plan International's new project through the Noble Youth Foundation (NOYU) called "I Decide." The excitement and hope from this meeting were palpable among us. We were encouraged to form groups and participate in various training sessions covering topics such as knowing our rights, disability inclusion, personal health, and hygiene.
The Most Significant Change
One of the most impactful sessions was about the prevention of STIs and teenage pregnancies. This training opened my eyes to the importance of personal hygiene and seeking proper medical care, which helped me address a persistent health issue. Additionally, we were trained on economic empowerment and life skills, including bread making. I borrowed money from the group to start a small business selling bread in the centre, which significantly improved my financial situation.
Life After the Project
Since joining the "I Decide" project and participating in the training sessions, my life has transformed. I now earn a steady income from my bread-making business, which allows me to support my family's needs and contribute to my children's school fees. This financial stability has brought love and respect into my marriage, fostering better collaboration and understanding with my husband. The project has not only empowered me economically but also improved my health and personal well-being.
Why This Change Matters
The most significant change resulting from this engagement is the economic empowerment and improvement in my personal health. By starting my bread-making business, I gained financial independence, which has positively affected my family and marital relationships. The training sessions provided me with crucial knowledge and skills, enabling me to make informed decisions about my health and future. This change has given me hope and a renewed sense of purpose.
My Message to Others
"Life often presents us with challenges that seem overwhelming, but I am here to tell you that there is always hope and opportunity for change. Just a few years ago, I found myself unable to continue my education and ended up in an early marriage, facing hardships and feeling hopeless. However, through the 'I Decide' project by Plan International and NOYU, I discovered a path to empowerment and transformation. No matter your circumstances or past mistakes, believe that you have the strength and capability to create a better future for yourself. Remember, each of us has the power to shape our own destiny. With determination and the right support, you can overcome obstacles and build a brighter future for yourself and your loved ones."
Before the Project
My name is Adongo Winnie, and I'm 24 years old. I live in Anamukanyo Village, Apanylongo Parish, Agali Sub County, in Lira District, Uganda. I was married and have two children. When I was 16, I got involved in a relationship influenced by peer pressure and my older sister. This led me to drop out of school in Primary 7, and I haven't been able to continue my education since then.
How I Became Involved
I became involved in this project after leaving my marriage and returning to live with my parents. In July 2024, while at church one Sunday, I heard the priest announce that NOYU Uganda, in partnership with Plan International, was looking to register and train youth in our community—both males and females, including those with children and disabilities—who had dropped out of school. This opportunity caught my interest, especially since I was feeling idle at home without any serious activities. I decided to join the project through the office of our LC1.
The Most Significant Change
There are many topics I'd like to discuss, but the most memorable sessions for me were about decision-making and the prevention of sexually transmitted infections. This training helped me realise the importance of making informed choices in my life. I often regret my past decisions; if I had made better choices when influenced by peer pressure and my elder sister, I wouldn't have married so young or become a teenage mother. I believe I would still be in school, and my life would be much better today.
Before joining the project, I was very naïve and timid about STIs. When I was married, my husband worked as a builder in another district and would often be away for long periods. When he returned, he infected me with an STI. I reached out to him, explaining that I wasn't feeling well and needed to see a doctor, but he denied any responsibility, accusing me of being unfaithful. I called my father, who advised me to come home so he could take me for treatment.
At Lira Main Hospital, the doctor informed me that the STI was at an advanced stage and required significant funding for treatment. Unfortunately, my father could only provide limited support, and I wasn't able to get all the treatment I needed.
Fortunately, when I joined the "I Decide" project, the project officer and Champion of Change Facilitator announced an outreach in our community in August 2024. They encouraged us to be open-minded and get tested for SRH-related issues. I participated in the outreach, was examined, and was referred to Reproductive Health Uganda Hospital in Lira City. There, I received the necessary medication and valuable information about STIs. I am extremely grateful for this support, as I have seen significant improvements in my health.
Why This Change Matters
I chose this change story because, through my engagement in the "I Decide" project, I have gained valuable knowledge about STIs and decision-making skills. This empowerment has equipped me to make more informed decisions about my life. I also share the information I've learned with friends who are not part of the Champion of Change group, ensuring that more people benefit from this knowledge.
My Message of Thanks
"I want to express my heartfelt appreciation for the support I've received from organisations like NOYU Uganda, Plan International, and Reproductive Health Uganda. They have been instrumental in my journey, helping me regain hope during a difficult time. I want to emphasise that there is always light at the end of the tunnel.
I urge these organisations to continue their invaluable work in supporting youth, as we are the future. Many of us face significant challenges due to a lack of knowledge and skills. By investing in us, you help create a brighter tomorrow for our communities. Thank you for recognising the importance of my story and for your ongoing commitment to empowering youth."
Before the Project
My name is Achola Lydia, and I want to share my journey with you. I'm a 20-year-old married woman with four children, hailing from Ocamoyang Centre in Agali village, Lira District.
Back in my early adolescence, I wasn't very assertive, and I didn't know much about sexual education or my sexual health rights. I made some choices that I now regret. The boys I thought were my friends convinced me to have sex, and that's how I met the father of my children at a very young age. He was just in Senior One at the time. When I became pregnant, I had to leave school, and my parents were disappointed in me. I felt like I had let everyone down.
How I Became Involved
In May 2023, things started to change. I went to the borehole one evening and heard my friends talking about an NGO that was recruiting youth who had dropped out of school. I went to the LC1 and got registered. I joined the "Note En Teko CoC" group and began attending their training sessions.
The Most Significant Change
The "I DECIDE" modules and the monthly outreaches became a turning point in my life. They helped me understand the power of making informed choices and the importance of child spacing. Additionally, we received training on climate change mitigation measures, and I started planting fruit trees like mangoes, oranges, and jackfruit.
With the support of the project, I realised that fear and self-blame were holding me back. I began to gain confidence, and I felt motivated to focus on my well-being. It was as if I had climbed to the top of a mountain, and I could now see a brighter future.
During one of the health outreach programmes, I learned about Family Planning. This knowledge changed my life. It helped me make a choice to stop having more children, as my husband's financial capacity was limited. I initially used an Injector-Plan as a Family Planning method, but the side effects were uncomfortable, so I switched to birth control pills. My husband supported this decision, and it improved our family's quality of life. I could invest more in my small business, buy household items, and afford healthcare services when needed.
Why This Change Matters
Being able to control my reproductive health and improve my family's well-being is the most significant change in my life. It has given me the power to make informed choices and shape my future. I am grateful for the support I received from the project, and I hope my story can inspire others to take control of their lives and make positive changes.
My Recommendations
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I now advise my fellow girls to avoid unnecessary pregnancies by using protection if necessary and to report any cases of rape or defilement to the police and local advocates.
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I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to Plan International through the NOYU project for giving me the tools and knowledge to transform my life. Your support has been invaluable, not just for me but for my entire community. Thank you for helping us build a brighter future.
Before the Project
My name is Olero Barbara, and I'm 24 years old. I live in Anamukanyo Village, Apanylongo Parish, Agali Sub County, in Lira District, Uganda. I was married and have two children (one boy and one girl, aged 4 and 2 years).
My life has not been easy because I am disabled (leg impairment). When I was married to my husband, my in-laws never liked me because of my condition. Whenever I would struggle and plant crops, they would come and take them forcefully to the market and sell them without my involvement. That made me decide to walk out of the marriage, so I came back home with my two children.
How I Became Involved
When I got back home, I was idle and didn't have anything to do. One day when I was at the market, I met the COC facilitator, Otim Willy, my former primary school teacher, who told me about the "I Decide" Project. That attracted my attention. I waited for them to organise a general meeting with the LC1 and Youth Councilor of our area, then I was registered under NOYU Uganda with other girls and boys within my community who were interested.
The Most Significant Change
My involvement in the project made me look at life differently. While I was growing up as a girl with a disability, I was always discriminated against. I was very impressed when the project officer came and said the project would involve everyone who is willing, including those with disabilities or impairments. This made me feel at home.
The training on "Disability Inclusion" also made my friends relate with me more. Most people in the community used to see me as an outcast, but after the training sessions, I gained new friends as they understood how to relate with people with different impairments.
Furthermore, I learnt how to take charge of my SRHR, so I went to Agali HCIV to get family planning services, and I am currently using Injector Plan.
I also learnt how to manage my finances and business skills from the training I received under "Economic Empowerment" as part of the COC curriculum. This knowledge has helped me in my business, as I am a tailor at the centre where I live. I now know how to make priority budgets and savings, which has really improved my business. I can now decide on how to make expenses and borrow more when necessary while keeping proper records of the business.
I was also linked by the COC facilitator and Project Officer to the Sub-county through the LC3 and Youth Leader to receive the Parish Development Model money. I received a total of 990,000 UGX. I used 750,000 UGX to buy a female cow, 70,000 UGX for one piglet, and used the balance to repair my tailoring machine and add more materials.
Why This Change Matters
Personally, I feel this story will help to teach adolescents and change their mindsets, especially girls. "Disability is Not Inability."
My Recommendations
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I would like to tell the youth that they should be patient and hardworking because nowadays nothing comes easily—you must work for it. They should also stay in groups, youth groups, or VSLA groups to benefit from Government and NGOs.
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To NOYU and Plan International, I would like to appreciate their efforts in empowering the youth through SRHR, but also request that they give us practical skills like hairdressing, tailoring, driving, or even take us back to school.
"May God bless you all."
Before the Project
My name is Mr Oguti Ivan, a 17-year-old Ugandan from Arwot village, Ojul Parish, Awei Sub-county. I am single.
It was in 2022 when I sat for my Primary Leaving Examinations at Ojul Primary School and I got 33 aggregates. Receiving the news about my results was the beginning of my downfall. Coming from a family of 11 children, it was not easy for my parents to raise school fees. It was resolved that I stay back that year since my results could not allow me to join secondary school, and even the tuition fees for a technical institution remained a great challenge.
With all this, it was the beginning of me leading a wasted life. Since I was idle, I became unruly to my people. No single person in my village could advise me on anything. I was demotivated about life, started playing cards, joined the centre groups, and once in a while I would sip alcohol and lead a dirty lifestyle.
How I Became Involved
In 2023, I heard about the "Ngec En Teko" group through one of the COC facilitators in my village called Judith. I became interested in joining the group, thinking it would change my life. Interacting with different peers in the group built my confidence about life.
The Most Significant Change
On joining the group, I received training on numerous life skills like "Who Am I," "How We Communicate Matters," and "Learning to Make Decisions." These sessions transformed my thinking and gave me a new direction in life. I began to see that my circumstances did not define my future and that I had the power to make better choices.
Life After the Project
The training helped me develop self-awareness and confidence. I learnt how to communicate effectively and make informed decisions. I no longer feel like a failure or someone destined for a wasted life. I now have a sense of purpose and believe that I can achieve something meaningful. I have stopped engaging in destructive behaviours and am focused on building a better future for myself.
Why This Change Matters
This change is significant because it gave me back my self-worth. Before the project, I felt like I was nothing and that my life had no value. The training helped me realise that I have potential and that with the right mindset and skills, I can overcome my challenges. I now believe that I can create a better life for myself, regardless of my past failures.
My Message to Others
"I want to encourage other young people who may be feeling hopeless or stuck. Do not give up on yourself. There is always an opportunity to change your life. Joining a group like Ngec En Teko can open doors you never knew existed. Believe in yourself, stay focused, and never stop learning. Your future is in your hands."
NOYU Focus Areas
Building Resilience for a Sustainable Tomorrow
Uganda's semi-arid regions, including the Lango and Bukedi cattle corridors, are on the front lines of the climate crisis.
Unpredictable weather patterns, prolonged droughts, and environmental degradation threaten livelihoods and food security.
We equip communities with the knowledge and tools to adapt, ensuring a sustainable future for the next generation.
Learn more...
Creating Pathways to Economic Independence
Poverty is a cycle, but it can be broken.
We tackle economic hardship at its source by giving young people and their families the means to build stable, independent livelihoods.
From vocational skills to business training, we open doors to income-generating opportunities that transform lives and uplift entire communities.
Empowering Through Skills and Lifelong Learning
Education is the cornerstone of empowerment.
For many vulnerable youth in Uganda, traditional schooling pathways are out of reach.
We bridge this gap with targeted, non-formal skills development and training that opens up real-world opportunities.
Our programmes turn potential into expertise, giving young people the qualifications and confidence to build a better future.
Nurturing Healthy Bodies and Resilient Minds
A young person cannot flourish if their health and well-being are at risk.
We address critical health challenges facing Uganda's youth, with a special focus on sexual and reproductive health and rights.
Through combining knowledge with economic empowerment, we help young people make informed, positive decisions about their bodies, their relationships, and their futures.
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Community Impact
Most Significant Change Stories: Real Lives Transformed by NOYU
Your Support Changes Lives. Here is How You Can Help.
Stories of Hope and Resilience in Pictures