John Jesse Nabundesi, is one of the shining stars from our Alumni over the years, having undergone training as an SRHR advocate and gone on to represent fellow young people on various platforms. We had a chat with Jesse to get to know where it all began and where he is now. Enjoy the read:
When did you join DSW/A4HU? (A brief history of your early life before joining DSW/A4HU and when you joined: include years)
I joined A4HU/DSW in 2019 while pursuing a Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology at medical school. At the time, I was also an active youth group member of Katoogo Champion Savings and Credit Association, in my community, Nama in Mukono District. This group aimed to empower young people by promoting savings and implementing joint projects, a strategy that gained recognition and admiration from community members and leaders alike.
Through our efforts, we were identified by A4HU/DSW under the SHAPE II project, which sought to build young people’s capacity in programming and advocacy. During this initiative, I and a few other group members were identified to become young SRHR champions despite having little to no prior knowledge about Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights.
Following my identification, I underwent a series of SRHR advocacy training sessions that broadened my perspective on societal challenges. Hearing first hand experiences of the SRHR issues my fellow young people faced in their communities deeply resonated with me and sparked my new passion for advocacy and change.
What was your experience like with DSW/A4HU? (most outstanding experiences):
My experience with DSW/A4HU has been incredibly fulfilling and transformative. It served as my initiation into the world of advocacy. As someone passionate about helping people and improving their way of life, I find this journey to be nothing short of inspiring.
Through DSW/A4HU, I had the opportunity to travel to places I had only dreamed of, where I met incredible individuals who expanded my perspective and network. This experience gave me a profound sense of purpose as I held duty bearers accountable, ensuring that young people’s voices and rights were prioritized in my community and country.
What made this experience even more rewarding was the realization that I was tackling issues that resonated nationally and globally. Since then, this has empowered me to contribute meaningfully to societal change, further solidifying my passion for advocacy and creating a better future for young people and their SRHR.
Where are you now? (current position and work, etc)
I actively participate in advocacy and capacity-building initiatives within my community and beyond. As a young SRHR champion trained by A4HU/DSW, I continue to focus on amplifying youth voices and promoting Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights.
My work includes leading a group of community health advocates in my community by chairing a Community-Based organization called the Community Health Advocates Association of Wakiso District. I also carry out advocacy at the national level, serving as a member of the Youth Advisory Committee of the SRHR Alliance Uganda and at the regional level as the President of the Regional Youth Advisory Committee of the African Network of SRHR Alliances. I also carry out advocacy at a global level, serving as a member of the EU Youth Sounding Board for International Partnerships, and my work involves engaging with duty bearers to ensure accountability and address pressing issues that impact young people everywhere. The skills and networks I gained through DSW/A4HU have enabled me to tackle national and global challenges, furthering my commitment to creating meaningful change in society.
How has it been thus far? (achievements along your journey, positions held, awards, etc.)
My journey thus far has been incredible, marked by growth, recognition, and impactful contributions. As a passionate youth advocate, I’ve had the privilege of holding several meaningful positions, as mentioned above.
Through these roles, I’ve gained valuable experience, expanded my networks, and made meaningful contributions to addressing local and global youth challenges. This journey has fueled my passion for creating lasting change and has motivated me to continue championing the well-being of young people in their diversity.
What lessons have you learned along the way?
Throughout my journey, I’ve learned several valuable lessons that have shaped my approach to advocacy and leadership. First and foremost, I’ve understood the importance of collaboration and teamwork. Tackling complex issues, especially those related to SRHR, requires building strong networks and working with diverse stakeholders to amplify impact.
I’ve also realized that youth voices matter and that young people can drive meaningful change when given the right platforms and opportunities. This understanding has deepened my commitment to creating spaces for youth participation and ensuring their voices are heard at all levels.
Another key lesson is the value of resilience and adaptability. Advocacy comes with challenges, such as duty bearers’ resistance, unfavorable policies surrounding SRHR, or societal barriers. However, staying focused on the goal and finding innovative ways to navigate obstacles has been crucial to my work.
I’ve also learned that accountability is a shared responsibility. Holding leaders accountable is essential, but so is ensuring that we, as youth leaders and advocates, remain committed to integrity and transparency in our work.
Lastly, I’ve come to appreciate the power of storytelling and sharing of lived experiences in advocacy. Listening to the challenges my fellow young people face in their communities has reinforced my passion and provided me with real-life insights to inform my advocacy efforts.
Advice to young people:
My advice is simple yet powerful to all young people: “Believe in your potential and take action. You are never too young to make a difference, and the challenges you see around you today can be transformed if you step up and become part of the solution.”
Vote of Thanks to DSW/A4HU:
I want to extend my deepest gratitude to DSW/A4HU for the incredible opportunities and support they have provided me throughout my journey. Your commitment to empowering young people like me has been transformative and has opened doors I could only dream of.
Thank you for believing in my potential and equipping me with the knowledge, skills, and networks that have shaped me into the advocate I am today. The training, mentorship, and platforms you offered amplified my voice and enabled me to contribute meaningfully to issues of national and global importance.
As I continue this journey, I carry with me the lessons, values, and passion instilled by DSW/A4HU. Thank you for being a pillar of support, guidance, and inspiration. I look forward to continuing to work toward a future where young people of their diversity can thrive and achieve their full SRHR potential.
