In a fortuitous turn of events, Patricia's life took a remarkable trajectory when she discovered the Youth Engagement and Empowerment Project. The project opened her mind to new possibilities and provided her with invaluable knowledge of entrepreneurship.

“One day, I stumbled upon the Youth Engagement and Empowerment Project, it was how the project opened up my mind on how to do business that really helped me to take the next step.” Patricia Ayulo

Motivated by her newfound insights, Patricia and her fellow trainees formed a Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA), with Patricia being appointed as the group's chairperson. Drawing from the resources of the VSLA, Patricia secured a loan and invested in a sow, an adult female pig capable of reproduction, worth 200,000 UGX, (approx €62) marking the beginning of her piggery venture.

Patricia's piggery project gained momentum when the sow gave birth to a litter of eight piglets. As she pens her story, the market value of a single piglet, priced between UGX 80,000 - 150,000 UGX (approximately €20-37), can reach a remarkable value of up to 900,000 UGX (about €224) within six to eight months.

Patricia Ajulo-YEEP-project-beneficiary

Patricia poses at the site of her piggery business

Recognising the potential in her expanding enterprise, Patricia enlisted her brother's support to manage the piggery farm effectively Empowered by her achievements and newfound confidence, Patricia decided to explore new avenues. Thus, she embarked on a mobile money business, diversifying her sources of income.

Now self-sufficient and capable of meeting her basic needs, Patricia's aspirations have grown further.

With an eye on expanding her business empire, she intends to venture into the field of tailoring. Patricia's remarkable journey, fuelled by her participation in the Youth Engagement and Empowerment Project, serves as a shining example of how knowledge and support can unlock the potential for transformative success in business.

 Her story is a testament to the power of empowerment initiatives like Youth Engagement and Empowerment Project (YEEP) in driving positive change within communities, paving the way for a brighter future.

YEEP is a three-year project funded by the European Union that is being implemented by Oxfam in partnership with (IFRAD) and African Youth Development Link (AYDL) in the 4 northern Uganda districts of Oyam, Gulu, Arua, and Nebbi targeting 2000 youth both in and out of school with an overall goal to improve youth livelihoods and participation in governance and development processes in Uganda.