Meet Josha Kawooya

The Emmaus Schools · Buikwe District, Uganda

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Josha Kawooya’s story

Joshua Kawooya is a disciplined, resilient, and brave 15-year-old student currently in Primary Six. Growing up as the eighth-born in a large family of five sisters and three brothers, Joshua lives with his parents in a household where resources are deeply stretched.

The family carries the heavy grief of losing one of Joshua’s brothers, a tragedy that deeply impacted their home. On top of this emotional weight, Joshua faces severe daily physical hardships; living in a poor household, he must travel long distances on foot every day just to fetch clean water for his family before attending to his studies. Unsurprisingly, securing school fees and essential scholastic supplies is a persistent struggle that constantly puts his education on hold.

Despite the long treks, financial insecurity, and family loss, Joshua possesses a strong, protective spirit. Inspired by a desire to defend his country, safeguard vulnerable families, and bring order and security to his community, Joshua wants to become a soldier after completing his studies.