Stories

We’re nearing the end of our stay in Kampala, and I am truly pooped! But it has been worth every moment, every conversation, every project. Today was filled with experiences I wish each of you could have heard with your own ears and seen with your own eyes—because you would have witnessed how your support of The Off Ramp and Threads by Nomad is making a real difference through our partnerships with Amani Sasa and Refuge and Hope. We began the day with the basket weavers at Am

I met Vivian and Jovan through a networking group I participate in—a small gathering that meets once a month via Zoom to share ideas about economic empowerment strategies in Uganda. One of the women in the group introduced me to this remarkable young couple. Vivian and Jovan recognized a serious need among school-age girls: access to basic sanitary and hygiene items. When girls begin their monthly cycles, many stay home because they don’t have what they need. The missed days

I arrived at the center earlier than usual—we had a full day ahead. The other team members each wanted a simple dress made by the women of Sewing for Hope , so the work began! First, Elizabeth taught everyone how to make patterns. I learned a lot! It’s not a skill I’ve ever really practiced. I’ve made a few patterns before, but nothing extensive. Then came measuring—something I was ready for, thanks to lessons from our former master tailor in Houston, Haydar. The afternoon wa

We came to Uganda for two reasons: the retreat you’ve hopefully already read about , and Sewing for Hope —a program within the center Refuge and Hope. We’ve been working with Sewing for Hope since around 2016 or 2017. The goal is much like ours at The Off Ramp: to create opportunities for economic stability and, in doing so, reduce the need for displacement. We partnered with them as mentors and marketers—offering guidance on improving production and helping sell their creat