comm-UNITY!

In this episode of Gathering of Givers, host Jacqueline Asiimwe sits down with Abaas Mpindi Apuuli, a visionary media entrepreneur redefining Africa’s media landscape through innovation and empowerment. Abaas reflects on the early lessons in generosity he learned from his grandmother, a woman known in her community for her warmth, hospitality, and insistence on basic courtesy. These early values of giving, sharing, and serving others laid the foundation for a life committed to lifting others as he climbs.

A defining moment in Abaas’ journey came when the late legendary journalist Bbale Francis entrusted him with his fifty-year-old media brand. Fresh out of college, Abaas took that act of trust and transformed it into the Media Challenge Initiative (MCI), an organization that has since become a catalyst for change in Uganda’s media space.

Now celebrating a decade of impact, MCI equips young journalists with the skills, leadership, and social consciousness needed to drive meaningful storytelling. Since 2017, it has trained over 3,000 journalism students, launched more than 10 youth-led media startups, and supported 130 fellows in solutions-based journalism. With programs like the Mobile Newsroom, offering hands-on training across 17 Ugandan universities, and the Media Hub, a collaborative space for media innovation, MCI is nurturing a new generation of storytellers committed to truth, impact, and change.

With a strong focus on underserved regions and emerging podcasters, MCI envisions the creation of the First Youth Newsroom, content created by and for the youth. But for Abaas, this work goes beyond building skills; it’s about transforming the very narrative of Africa. He is determined to challenge negative stereotypes and promote stories that celebrate growth, acknowledge complexity, and spark collective responsibility.

Generosity sits at the heart of Abaas’ mission, not just the generosity of resources, but the deeper kind: sharing space, time, privilege, knowledge, and opportunity. Through MCI, he practices leadership model grounded in abundance and access, ensuring others are empowered to step into their purpose and tell their stories on their own terms.

Abaas’ journey is a testament to what generosity can look like when it’s woven into vision and practice, a reminder that true giving is about opening doors for others and holding them open long enough for transformation to take root.

🎧 Listen now to previous episodes. Reflect deeply. Pass it on.

🔗⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.civsourceafrica.com/podcast-1⁠⁠⁠⁠

#commUNITYPodcast #YoungGivers #BeyondTheGift #GiveDifferent #PodcastForTheFuture #EachOneReachOne #OurGenerousSpirit #OmutimaOmugabi

People often tip the waiters but forget the chefs, the quiet alchemists working behind the scenes, seasoning stories into every bite, far from applause. Just like that, we often overlook the everyday gestures of generosity: the silent kindnesses, the held doors, the shared smiles, the wisdom passed over tea. Not all giving jingles in a collection box.

In this compelling episode of The Gathering of Givers, host Jacqueline Asiimwe is joined by Catherine Mutesi Mugabo, a vibrant young giver, as they unwrap what it means to give in today's world, beyond coins and campaigns. Together, they explore the evolving spectrum of charity and the subtle, sometimes invisible, ways generosity shows up in our lives.

Catherine opens up about how her own son redefined her understanding of giving. Through him, she sees generosity not just as grand gestures, but as a cumulative effect, a daily collection of small kindnesses, time freely offered, talents quietly shared, and treasures humbly given. “Money isn’t the only thing we give,” she says. “It’s the Three T’s: Time, Talent, and Treasure.”

She also reflects on The Gathering of Givers as more than an event, it’s a moment of recognition. A celebration of those whose behind-the-scenes giving leaves visible impact. Catherine applauds CivLegacy Foundation and CivGalaxy for putting African philanthropy on the map, both through research and by elevating it into boardrooms. “Africa is the Invisible Chef,” she says, “quietly nourishing, often unseen, yet foundational to the feast.”

🎧 Listen now. Reflect deeply. Pass it on.

Because there is more to generosity than meets the eye, and more givers among us than we may realize.

🎧 Listen in and be inspired. 🔗⁠⁠⁠https://www.civsourceafrica.com/podcast-1⁠⁠⁠

#commUNITYPodcast #YoungGivers #BeyondTheGift #GiveDifferent #PodcastForTheFuture #EachOneReachOne #OurGenerousSpirit #OmutimaOmugabi

In this episode Jacqueline Asiimwe sits down with Denis Wembi, a youth leader involved in many initiatives, including the "Goal Next Generation" fellowship. Wembi reflects on the role generosity has played in shaping his life. He recalls how his father’s actions; always bringing him children’s books, not only sparked his lifelong love for reading but were also his first contact with pure generosity. He also shares a story from early 2024 when two women on a train asked him for help with their luggage.

This small favor led to an unexpected return; the women covered his entire journey to Diani, Kenya, a destination he’d never visited. To Wembi, it was the best thing that happened to him that year, proving how even the smallest act of kindness can have a far reaching impact.

Wembi mentions that as he works with young people, he witnesses generosity in action every day. He recalls how a friend who once helped pay his school fees was a gesture that left a lasting impression on him and praises how young people are proactive in sharing resources to support each other’s dreams.

For Wembi, generosity isn't just about grand gestures; it's the little things: like giving a pair of trousers or a handkerchief to someone who needs it that count. He believes in the principle that the more you give, the more it comes back and that the true purpose of giving is to uplift others. Wembi also shares his dream of creating a resource center to provide young people with access to literature; seeing knowledge as a powerful tool for empowerment.

He truly believes that even the smallest acts of generosity can make a big difference in people's lives.

🎧 Listen in and be inspired. 🔗⁠⁠https://www.civsourceafrica.com/podcast-1⁠⁠

#commUNITYPodcast#YoungGivers #BeyondTheGift #GiveDifferent #PodcastForTheFuture#EachOneReachOne #OurGenerousSpirit #OmutimaOmugabi

What if giving wasn’t just about money? What if generosity looked like mentorship, knowledge-sharing, advocacy, or simply showing up? In Episode 2, Season 14 of the comm-UNITY!

Podcast, we’re unpacking the power of giving beyond the obvious, because generosity isn’t just an act, it’s a mindset.

We often hesitate to call ourselves givers, as if time, skills, and care don’t count as much as financial donations. But the truth is, giving comes in many forms, and it’s often the things we share freely that create the biggest impact. What if generosity was less about what we give away and more about what we build?

In a world that moves fast, where self-interest is often celebrated, choosing to give, whether it’s through mentorship, knowledge, or simply standing beside someone, is an act of defiance and hope. It’s saying, “I see you. I believe in you. Let’s build something together.”

Meet the changemakers redefining generosity:

Ahumuza Ronah: Executive Director, ⁠Holistic Actions for Development and Empowerment(HADE).⁠ She is using mentorship as a tool for revolution, empowering young women in Ghetto communities to rise as leaders in gender equality, climate action, and urban development.

Mary Helda Akongo: Program Lead, Fundi Girlsat ⁠FundiBots⁠. She’s breaking barriers in STEM, ensuring that girls across Uganda and Kenya don’t just dream of the future, they build it.

Nambooze Angella: Head of the Support Team, ⁠Raremark Foundation⁠. As a sickle cell warrior herself, she is turning personal battles into advocacy, proving that giving time and voice can change lives.

Society might see generosity as self-promotion, but let’s be honest, sharing acts of giving inspires others to do the same. We’ve all been shaped by someone else’s generosity, whether it was a mentor, a friend, or a stranger who believed in us.

What if your generosity could be the spark for someone else?

Think about the last time someone gave you an opportunity, believed in you, or made your journey easier. What if giving wasn’t just about charity, but about paving the way for someone else to rise?

Let’s talk about giving that goes beyond the gift, giving that transforms, uplifts, and leaves a legacy.

🎧 Listen in and be inspired. 🔗⁠https://www.civsourceafrica.com/podcast-1⁠

#commUNITYPodcast#YoungGivers #BeyondTheGift #GiveDifferent #PodcastForTheFuture#EachOneReachOne #OurGenerousSpirit #OmutimaOmugabi

Who is a young giver? Who comes to mind when you think of true generosity? In this

Denise Kekimuli shares the touching story of her young daughter, whose boundless empathy led her to support children living with Sickle Cell Disease. From creating a network of support for grieving mothers to uplifting those in need, Denise exemplifies the power of generosity born from compassion. Her story serves as a reminder that giving is not defined by wealth, status, or age, it is about the willingness to uplift others during their hardest moments. As

Esther Kalenzi, the visionary founder of the Forty

As the conversation unfolds, listeners are reminded of the enduring strength of community and the rich, intergenerational tradition of giving deeply rooted in

The discussion crescendos with an inspiring call to action: “Just start.” Whether you have little or much, the act of giving should come from a genuine desire to make a difference, not for recognition, but for the quiet power of lifting others. True generosity may go unseen and uncelebrated, but its impact

With warmth, laughter, and compelling narratives, this episode of is an invitation to embrace the timeless art of giving. It challenges us to reflect on how we, too, can make a difference in our own unique ways, reminding us that generosity has the power to shape a better world for us all.

__

To explore more seasons of the comm-UNITY! Podcast series ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here:

#commUNITYPodcast

Meet Uche Helen Okpuzor, a powerhouse of creativity, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. As a singer/songwriter, entrepreneur, and the driving force behind Picture Perfect Creationz, Uche embodies the belief in uncovering every individual's unique voice.

Hailing from Nigeria, Uche's philanthropic journey seamlessly blends creativity and compassion, extending far beyond her business success. In 2019, she founded

Looking to the future, Uche sees the arts as a transformative tool for empowering marginalized

Despite challenges, Uche remains steadfast, viewing adversity as a steppingstone to greater heights. Her commitment to using her talents for good invites us all to

Join us in this episode of Youth Givers in West Africa as we celebrate African philanthropy through youth like Uche, who are making a difference with their talents. Stay

_

To explore more seasons of the comm-UNITY! Podcast series ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

_

#InspireInclusion #communitypodcast #season13 #YouthGiversWestAfrica

In this episode, we've got an incredible story lined up for you. Meet Andre Garbutt, a remarkable young trailblazer whose resilience and passion for education are nothing short of awe-inspiring. As the founder of Hands-on Excellence Academy, Andre is on a mission to bridge the

Andre will take us through his efforts in Lagos and Ogun State, where his academy has trained over 1,000 educators in effective communication, emotional intelligence, and cutting-edge instructional techniques. His work is revolutionizing education by ensuring teachers are not just prepared but are exceptional in engaging and inspiring their students. His

Join us as we soak up Andre's insights and experiences, and let's get inspired to contribute to societal betterment. Tune in to learn more about his incredible journey and the transformative impact he's having on education in Nigeria.

Stay tuned for more stories that spotlight the dynamic power of youth philanthropy in reshaping lives and communities across the continent.

To explore more seasons of the comm-UNITY! Podcast series ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

_

#InspireInclusion #communitypodcast #season13

Welcome to the Young Givers in West Africa podcast, a series that celebrates the spirit of youth philanthropy in the vibrant communities of West Africa. I'm your host, Isaiah, and I'm thrilled to have you join us for this week's episode. Before we dive into today's discussion, I want to tell you about Safe South Africa, the organization behind this podcast. Safe South Africa is a philanthropy support organization dedicated to refining the practice of philanthropy and elevating the footprint of civil society in Africa. We promote reflective, responsive, and accountable philanthropy practices that advance the dignity and voices of all people.

This week, we have a special guest, Mary Alonso from Nigeria, who has been making significant strides in her community.

Mary's journey into this work is inspiring. Growing up, she witnessed the struggles of many young girls in her community who lacked the educational opportunities she had. Her experiences with her father's work in rural schools and the challenges faced by her friend motivated her to make a difference. Today, Mary is dedicated to empowering young girls and youth through training and mentorship, providing them with the skills and

Mary's work is not just about numbers; she focuses on transforming the lives of 10 young girls each year, ensuring they receive the best training and support. Her initiatives extend beyond her immediate community, reaching out to various rural areas and collaborating with other organizations to maximize impact. In 2024, Mary plans to continue her training programs, expand her outreach, and work closely with persons with disabilities to provide them with the skills and support they need to thrive.

Join us as we delve deeper into Mary's inspiring journey, her motivations, and the incredible work she does to uplift her community. Thank you for tuning in to Young Givers in West Africa, where we celebrate the power of youth philanthropy and the positive change it brings to our communities.

_

To explore more seasons of the comm-UNITY! Podcast series ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

_

#InspireInclusion #communitypodcast #season13

To many, Rotaract remains shrouded in mystery, but it serves as a beacon for youth striving to create change in their communities. Often seen as a junior iteration of Rotary, Rotaract inspires youth to impact communities with the vision of "service above self."

In this episode, we present the story of Rotaractor Michael Ekerin, whose journey through Rotaract leadership in District 9112 has been transformative. Initially indifferent to Rotaract, Michael's path paints a compelling picture of growth and impact within the communities he has served.

Ascending through various roles within his club, Michael's appreciation for Rotaract crystallized during his tenure as vice president of the multi-award-winning club with a rich history. Here, he discovered his leadership ability and eventually ran for the presidency.

Michael's tenure has been marked by tangible acts of generosity and empowerment, from providing sewing machines to boost economic sustainability to ensuring that underprivileged students receive essential resources like stationery and school furniture. For Michael, this is merely the start of a lifelong dedication to service.

When asked what drives him, Michael shared that he draws inspiration from a team of young individuals dedicated to creating transformative projects, propelling him to redouble his commitment.

Michael embodies the spirit of youth empowerment and philanthropy in West Africa, exemplifying "service above self."

Join us as we explore the boundless potential of Rotaractors in this conversation with Michael Ekerin in the podcast "Youth Givers in West Africa."

_

To explore more seasons of the comm-UNITY! Podcast series ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

_

#InspireInclusion #communitypodcast #season13

Emmanuel Marfo could pass for an encyclopedia of Philanthropy in Ghana and West Africa. With a journey of generosity spanning more than seventeen years-Emmanuel is a true Philanthropic catalyst.

Drawing core inspiration from his Family Foundation which was established when he was just a child, Emmanuel has risen to lead various philanthropic initiatives across the region. From fostering dialogue to promoting innovation and research, his efforts aim to strengthen philanthropy in Ghana and Africa as a whole.

Through organizations like Global Alliance For Development Foundation International (GADEF), and the African Youth Philanthropy Network, Emmanuel has worked tirelessly to support youth-led social enterprises and to amplify their voices.

Emmanuel lives by the "5 Ts" of philanthropy – Talent, Time, Treasure, Ties, and Testimony – and shares this ethos to inspire others. His work has led to the creation of 26 startups and thousands of jobs, directly and indirectly and in both formal and informal sector.

Emmanuel's journey from family to community to national impact is a testament to his dedication and resilience. He encourages fellow youth to get involved in philanthropy and make a difference in their unique ways.

Join us in this episode of "Youth Givers in West Africa"  to celebrate the power of giving and the impact it has on communities across West Africa.

_

To explore more seasons of the comm-UNITY! Podcast series ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

_

#InspireInclusion #communitypodcast #season13