From Bluesoup to Uganda: My Edukid Journey

By Tabs Parry, Bluesoup Designer

This summer, I had the privilege of travelling to Uganda with Edukid, a charity that helps children and young people living in poverty gain access to education.

I was part of a group of 33 people, ranging in age from 15 to 72, who came together for this journey. The purpose of an Edukid trip is to give people the chance to step into the role of global citizens; visiting schools, meeting local communities, and learning directly from the people whose lives are impacted by Edukid’s work.

What struck me most was just how varied the group was: a real reminder that these trips are for everyone. I travelled with my Mum, alongside 10 other adults - some who knew each other beforehand, while others were meeting for the first time - along with three small school groups of (mostly) Year 11 students. Despite our different ages, backgrounds, and reasons for going, we quickly became a close-knit group, sharing an experience that brought us together in ways we’ll never forget.

This trip was made possible by Bluesoup, the marketing agency in Bideford where I work as a graphic designer. Bluesoup is a long-term supporter of Edukid, and by funding my place on the trip, not only allowed me to take part in something truly life-changing, but also showed how much Bluesoup values giving back and supporting causes that matter.

Setting the scene

The purpose of an Edukid trip goes far beyond simply visiting another country. It’s about creating opportunities for local communities to share the challenges they face, allowing us to experience these issues first-hand, and working together to explore practical ways to make a difference.

This trip promised a rich variety of experiences - from supporting activities at the local school and contributing to community initiatives, to visiting nearby villages and learning about daily life. We were also excited to immerse ourselves in local traditions, explore bustling markets, and enjoy the unforgettable adventure of a once-in-a-lifetime safari.

A country of resilience and warmth

Uganda welcomed us with open arms. From the bustle of local markets to the beauty of rural villages, there was an energy and warmth everywhere we went. But what struck me most were the smiles - from the very youngest children to the oldest person we met - that greeted us wherever we went. Those beautiful, genuine smiles lifted my heart and were absolutely infectious. Even now, when I look back at the photos I've taken of those radiant faces, I'm transported straight back to Uganda, feeling that same warmth and joy all over again.

At Willacic Primary, the school we visited in northern Uganda, we saw both sides of the story: the joy of children singing, dancing, and welcoming us with huge smiles, alongside the reality of overcrowded classrooms, limited resources, and children sharing pencils and desks. The children were so curious, happy, and joyous to see us that, even through their initial shyness, they wanted to be with us all the time. Not just to play and engage with the amazing array of craft and sports equipment we had brought from the UK, but to simply walk with us around the huge school field, sit beside us, and play. Even though some of the children had limited English (although far better than my Ugandan!), they just wanted to be near us and hold our hands.

We spent time with hundreds of children, crafting together with colouring rolls, loom bands, and mask-making, as well as playing with frisbees, bubbles, and all the sports equipment we had brought with us. There was also time for reading to smaller groups of children under the huge trees dotted around the school grounds.

Some of the most powerful moments came when visiting the families in the local villages who Edukid supports. We met a mother of five, raising her children alone with no safety net. Thanks to the subsequent generosity of the amazing individuals on our trip, all of her children were are now sponsored, meaning they now have access to education - something that had previously been completely out of reach, as families must pay for schooling in Uganda. Encounters like this reminded me that education doesn’t just change one life; it can transform entire families and communities.

Working alongside Edukid

Some of the impact came directly from what we were able to purchase while in Uganda, while other projects were made possible thanks to the incredible fundraising efforts of individuals and groups before the trip.

The results were remarkable:

Sponsors were found for 16 students, including those we met on home visits.
We funded the repair of a straw roof on a ‘banda’ hut and provided a replacement door and lock for a family’s home.
Solar panels and lighting were installed in the boys’ dormitory of a school.
Over 50 football shirts, sports kit and football boots were donated to Willacic Primary.
Mattresses and mosquito nets were donated to families and schools we visited, ensuring better sleep and focus for learning.
Emergency supplies were delivered, and nine goats were purchased for three families.
We bought land for a widow and her family, where a new home is now being built.

And that was just the start.

Beyond the tangible donations, what mattered most was the connection: sitting with families, speaking with teachers, and meeting the leaders and individuals behind other Edukid projects in different parts of Uganda we visited. Through these conversations, we shared stories and gained a deeper understanding of the culture, resilience, and struggles of everyday life.

Reflections

Uganda was more than just a trip. It was a chance to step outside my everyday world, to connect with people whose lives are so different to mine, and to be reminded of the importance of kindness and community.

It was simultaneously amazing, beautiful, and heartbreaking because I didn’t want my time with the children to end. I came home with a fresh sense of gratitude and perspective, and a deeper belief in the difference small acts of compassion can make.

It was tough to witness the hardships and even harder to accept that we couldn’t help everyone. But a wise young woman (Kara, one of the Edukid leaders), shared something that has stayed with me: “One person can’t change the world, but you can change the world for one person.” And during this trip, I truly believe we did just that.

Want to learn more?

If you’d like to know more about Edukid’s work, sponsoring a child, or even joining a future trip to Uganda, Peru, or Cambodia, you can find all the details on the Edukid website.

And if you’d like to hear more about my journey personally, please feel free to get in touch, I’d love to share my experience. You can also check out my TikTok account, which I dedicated to documenting my recent trip to Uganda.

I am eternally grateful for the experience and the support of Bluesoup: I am proud to work for a company that invests in experiences that create real impact.

A truly life-changing experience. Uganda will forever be in my heart.