Two Sides of the Celebration

I visited the camps in Rwanda and interacted with our team and their beneficiaries

Our team with their volunteers that worked tirelessly during the pandemic lockdown to continue to serve people with disabilities and those that needed mental health support

People that helps bring assistive devices to people with disabilities in the refugee camps in Kenya

As 2021 comes to a close, we've had much to celebrate, from incredible achievements to the resilience of people facing many challenges.

On December 3, we had a very successful celebration for the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. It was a powerful showcase of their accomplishments and a look at what the future holds. I was proud to give a speech at one of the settlements, urging everyone to "Leave No One Behind!"

But beyond those who are in the spotlight, let’s not forget the people working tirelessly behind the scenes or on the front lines. They often don't get acknowledged because their work isn't a headline or a viral social media post.

I want to give credit where credit is due—to everyone who makes this work possible. This includes those who tirelessly secure funding and those who put in the hard work on the ground.

A special shout-out to my colleagues in the field. You brave bad roads, rain, and sun. You cross high seas to rescue those in peril. You face the constant threat of the invisible virus plaguing our world. Your courage and dedication are what truly make a difference.

Thank you to those who ease the pain of people injured while crossing borders or who are traumatized by change. Thank you to those who help marginalized children, survivors of abuse, and those forced into labor. You fill the gaps when schools are closed and when health systems are overwhelmed. These small wins mean the world to us because they show we are making a real difference.

Kind words are the fuel that keeps us going. To my colleagues in Uganda and around the world, may your tribe increase. May more and more people join you in your vital work, making life better for everyone.

Let's all heed the call from the North, East, South, and West and remember that we are our brother’s keeper. What we do today affects us all, now and in the future. No act of help is ever too small.

Thank you for all your work.

**Enjoy seeing what my colleagues do in the field. Share your photos too and celebrate.