In April 2025, Heather (one of our sponsors) and her grandson visited Uganda through the Safari Trip. During her visit, Heather was able to meet her sponsored child and his family, experience what life is like in Uganda and go on an incredible safari trip to see some Ugandan wildlife.

Heather opted to invite her sponsored child on the safari trip, which has been a life-changing experience for him.

If you are interested in following in Heather’s footsteps and experiencing this trip of a lifetime, get in touch via our Contact Page.

Here are Heather’s reflections on her trip:

“Travel has always been a passion of mine but my recent trip to Uganda with Step Up Family Organisation has completely transformed my perspective. From the minute I arrived ,I was met with warmth, resilience and a deep sense of love and community that left an indelible mark on my heart. Here is a tiny glimpse into the highs and lows of this unforgettable experience, and why I feel every one of us sponsors are making a real difference.

Mamma Kiz !

The unsung hero

The heartbeat of Step Up

This lady rises before dawn from her tiny one bed modest room, responds daily to all messages, texts, parcels, children’s needs, too many chores to mention. She has woven her life around these children’s well being, and given up her own life. She is the only white women in the village, completely surrounded by Ugandan men, who adore her. She lives simple, yet gives abundantly .Her selflessness reminds me daily why we all come together in support of these children. Mamma Kiz’s tireless work is nothing short of heroic.

Mamma Kiz – you really are an angel You are the true heart of Step Up Family Organisation.

Joseph and the Volunteers

Behind every successful program there has to be strong leadership…and Joseph is certainly that!

Joseph and his core team of fantastic volunteers are visionaries, dreaming big and providing great hope, guidance and good role models for these children. They plan lots of skilled workshops, community events, organising classes and future planning for workshops.

Many of us only see the smiling photos on Facebook, but being there in person brings the full story into focus.

Every donation – be it clothing, food or school supplies – certainly changes a life. They desperately need it. There is a deeper story out there – unimaginable poverty.

Many children go without clothes, without shoes and often without enough food. Orphans are turning up at the safe house daily, hungry. Children are sleeping on the floor as there are not enough beds, but they are never turned away. They are surrounded by love and care .

Despite everything ,these people are proud, welcoming and so full of joy. They remind me that happiness doesn’t come from material things, it comes from the community, from purpose, from love .

The Tour

Wow! How fantastic!

Waterfalls and wilderness. Majestic falls thundering down lush cliffs. Safaris where elephants come for breakfast, giraffes roamed free (and very close at that), monkeys, rhino fights!! Alligators and hippos !!! Beautiful hotels, fantastic staff and amazing lightning shows in the evening, even a sneaky few Captain Morgans on the beach what more can I say ….absolutely fantastic time

A special thank you to Alex whose kindness and attentive care ensured that Harlee and I felt safe and welcome at every turn.

This trip has shown me the true meaning of gratitude, humility and humanity. I will carry these children, this experience and these incredible people with me always.

Join me in this mission.

Sponsor a child.

Send a care package or plan your own journey.

You won’t just change their lives – you will transform your own.

Thank you Step Up Family Organisation!

Thank you Uganda!

Thank you Mamma Kiz – you are a living angel xx

I’ll be back for the bar night lovely lady “

My gorgeous boy Abdu who by the end of my trip was laughing ,giggling and speaking so much more English….