When I embarked on the journey to create Fields of Resilience, I never imagined how deeply it would challenge and transform me. This coffee table book, a blend of storytelling and photography, is my tribute to Uganda’s profound beauty and resilience. As I write this, the book is still a work in progress, yet the journey has already become one of the most enriching experiences of my life.
Last summer, as the Executive Director of Agri Planet Africa, I traveled to Uganda with my daughter, Lena, to visit the communities we work with. The trip, though meticulously planned, unfolded in the most unexpected ways, revealing life lessons I’ll carry forever.
An Unpredictable Beginning
Our adventure began at 5 a.m. with a canceled flight at Will Rogers Airport in Oklahoma City. It was the first of many surprises that taught me to embrace the unpredictable. After reroutes through Washington D.C., Rwanda, and Brussels, we finally landed in Entebbe, Uganda, late at night. Greeted by armed guards and dimly lit streets, our introduction to Uganda was surreal. Yet, by morning, as sunlight kissed the shores of Lake Victoria outside our hotel, any apprehension melted into awe.
Immersing in Uganda’s Soul
From the vibrant markets of Kampala to the serene waters of Lake Albert near the Congo border, every corner of Uganda seemed to hum with life. One of the most impactful experiences was visiting the Kyangwali Refugee Settlement. Here, Lena and I planted trees with the children of the Saviour Junior School and orphanage. Their laughter, optimism, and unyielding determination reminded me of the strength in unity and the boundless power of education.
We also celebrated the grand opening of Agri Planet Africa’s second Community Permaculture Resource Center in Kobusinge. This event symbolized more than sustainable agriculture—it was a celebration of collaboration. We planted 110 trees and hosted a vegan feast for over 70 volunteers. I was deeply honored when the conference center was dedicated in my name, a gesture that underscored the strong bond I share with this community.
Lessons Beyond the Lens
Traveling through Uganda was as much a journey inward as outward. Whether trekking through maize fields in Kasungwa, navigating village streets with flat tires, or listening to the stories of local farmers, each moment added depth to my understanding of resilience. It’s this understanding that I aim to capture in Fields of Resilience.
As I continue working on the book, I’m reminded that storytelling isn’t just about preserving memories—it’s about fostering empathy and inspiring action. Eighty percent of the proceeds from Fields of Resilience will support Agri Planet Africa’s mission to empower communities through education, permaculture, and leadership training. The remaining 20 percent will help me continue sharing these stories that connect us all.
Keep Trekking
This is just the beginning. Uganda is more than a destination for me—it’s a source of inspiration, a second home. The journey to create Fields of Resilience is a testament to the beauty of embracing the unexpected and finding purpose in the stories we tell.
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