Our Story

Bridging Villages began as a seed in the mind of Lindsay and Zaid shortly after their first trip to Uganda in June of 2014 where they volunteered with a local, Ugandan organization in hopes that they would be able to put their skills to work in whatever way possible at a rural school and medical clinic.  During this time, they stayed with a woman and the eight children that she had taken into her home.  While their trip was cut short, when Lindsay became ill with malaria, they fell in love with the community and committed to help develop a no-fee school and support their friends in which ever way possible. 

Upon returning to their home city of Winnipeg, they immediately began brainstorming fundraisers that would allow for the installation of a cement floor in the main school building (prevent jigger bug infections in children’s feet), roofs on each of the classrooms, new chalkboards, desks, etc.  With the incredible outpouring of support from friends, family and community members they met each of these goals.  That is when they realized that there are countless people in this world that want so desperately to contribute to something life-changing, they just aren’t always sure how to start.  Hence the launching of Bridging Villages, which would provide a long-term source of funding for the people of Namavundu and the Wakiso district while also providing the opportunity for people in developed countries, such as Canada, to be a part of something incredible, with the potential to impact the lives of countless amazing people.

Through working with our partners and friends in Uganda as well as brainstorming with the women in our communities and our board of directors, we have designed an organization that is multi-faceted and involves a holistic view of supporting equity across the communities of Uganda. We want to see children meeting their full potential, living in financially sustainable households, becoming educated, and living healthy, incredible lives. We dream of seeing women achieve full financial independence and the ability to truly choose what is best for themselves and their children. To help them attain equality in the workforce and begin to turn the tide of gender inequality throughout their nation.

Bridging Villages has assisted over 100 young people in attending primary, secondary, and post-secondary school. The children that were among the first to enter our programs are now young adults with certification in various trades, or degrees in different college/university programs. Ten women have completed non-traditional skills training and have either began their own business or attained full-time employment among their male counterparts in fields including Carpentry, Welding, and Mechanics.

We are honoured to work in so many communities throughout Uganda are are humbled by every person that chooses to come alongside us to support these phenomenal women and children/young people.