What is a Social Impact Trip?
A Social Impact Trip is a unique travel experience that combines adventure with meaningful contributions to communities in need. These trips are designed to bring together like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a positive difference while exploring new cultures and environments. Participants typically engage in volunteer work, community development projects, and hands-on activities that support local initiatives. The goal is to create lasting social change by fostering connections between people from different backgrounds, enhancing their understanding of global issues, and contributing to sustainable solutions. Since 2017, the 22STARS Foundation has been organizing group tours to Uganda, aiming to showcase both the beauty of the country and the impactful work we do.
We’ve welcomed over 80 participants, many of whom have returned to co-host future trips. Our most recent trip, held in November 2024, was an unforgettable experience that left both the participants and local communities feeling inspired and empowered.
Diary of our social impact trip
On November 6, 2024 Stella Romana Airoldi arrived in Uganda and on November 7, we kicked off the trip with a team-building meeting between our European and African teams. The aim was to foster understanding and set expectations for the trip, touching on important topics such as communication, cultural differences, teamwork, and the responsibilities of roles.
Over the course of the next few days, we received participants from across Europe, who joined us for this impactful journey. Some were first-timers to Uganda, and for many, it was their first visit to Africa.
Our first major visit took place on November 8, when we traveled to Acholi Quarters, a vibrant community where our office is located and where 250 children and their families are supported. Susan Laker, one of our local leaders, shared her personal story of overcoming adversity, which left a profound impact on everyone in the group. The shared table, filled with heartfelt conversation, laughter, and tears, reinforced the deep connections formed between our participants and the local community.
On November 10, the beneficiaries, parents, and children of Acholi Quarters warmly welcomed our visitors. It was a day full of dancing, singing, and bonding. The participants had the opportunity to connect with children who were not yet sponsored, and thanks to their generosity, these children will now be able to attend school under the sponsorship of 22STARS Foundation in 2025. We are so happy and grateful for this!
On November 11, we took the group on a cultural tour of Kampala, visiting the Royal Palace of Buganda, the Bahigh Temple, and Gaba Beach. After a day of exploration, the team enjoyed a delicious fish lunch, immersing themselves in both the history and hospitality of Uganda.
The following day, November 12, we visited Hope Land School, where we brought food and drinks for the children and distributed letters from their sponsors. For the children, receiving letters from their sponsors was a deeply meaningful moment, reinforcing their sense of connection to their supporters back home. Later that day, we traveled to Jinja, where we visited the Abba Father School, another of our supported projects.
When we got there, we took a boat tour to the Source of the Nile, before visiting Jipra High School, where some of our secondary school students are enrolled. We then enjoyed a local market tour, followed by a relaxing evening with the team.
The trip culminated on November 14, with a cooking lesson at Danida, where our second project is located. It was a day filled with music, dance, and fun activities. The participants also supported local artisans by purchasing paper beads made by the parents of the children we sponsor. Their purchases were not just about buying jewelry; they were a gesture of support for the local community and a tangible way to empower local families.
As we wrapped up the trip, we reflected on the powerful impact of this experience. Our Social Impact group was kind, cooperative, and eager to contribute. Through their efforts, we were able to create positive changes in the community—whether through sponsorships, donations, or the spirit of solidarity they brought with them.
Conclusion: A Trip That Changes Lives
The November 2024 Social Impact Trip to Uganda was a success on so many levels. From fostering cross-cultural understanding to making real, lasting contributions to local communities, this trip was a powerful reminder of the importance of social responsibility and global citizenship.
We want to extend a special thank you to the incredible participants who joined us on this journey and helped make it truly memorable: Daniel Sialegel, David Schmidt, Irene Taferner, Kirsten Donner, Katharina Kraft, Vivien Vollkaunner, and Ulaf Woubrand. Your kindness, cooperation, and dedication to making a positive impact were deeply appreciated.
Your contributions, whether through sponsorship, donations, or simply the joy and enthusiasm you brought to the community, have created lasting change in the lives of many. We are grateful for your support, and we hope that the memories and connections formed during this trip will continue to inspire you for years to come.
Stay tuned for upcoming Social Impact trips with 22STARS Foundation. Join us, make a difference, and be part of something bigger than yourself.
