Uganda, often referred to as the ‘Pearl of Africa,’ is a nation known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. However, it also faces significant challenges, particularly around employment. With a rapidly growing population and a shortage of jobs, unemployment rates in Uganda are staggering. This disparity leaves many young Ugandans struggling to find opportunities to improve their livelihoods.

Therefore, from 23 – 31 August, we transformed the Makerere Innovation and Incubation Center (MIIC) into a playground for creative, meaningful ideas and (intercultural) connection! We brought together a diverse group, ranging from college dropouts, and incubator representatives, to corporate professionals, uniting people from Uganda, India, Switzerland, Germany, the US, and Italy. This created a space for mutual learning on equal footing, co-creating innovative solutions, and building lasting cultural bridges.

With inspiration from diverse local social businesses like the waste disposal and recycling company YoWaste, and with inputs from our coaches’ team, 60 young people innovated on FinTech, Climate Change/ Energy, Agriculture, and Education. What came out of it was more than impressive prototypes (even though we have to agree they were wonderful – see for yourself in the picture)! We thank everyone involved!