It left a hole in my life

Ojok Charles' story

The Northern Uganda Climate Change Action (NUCRA) initiative has significantly impacted individuals' lives, as highlighted by participant Ojok, who shared his transformative journey. NUCRA involves a consortium of partners, including The Recreation Project (TRP), which focuses on delivering livelihood support while addressing climate-related Truma challenges in Northern Uganda.

TRP enables local communities to develop transferable life and resilience skills through a play-based and experiential learning approach. This method empowers individuals to adapt and thrive amid climate shocks. 

Ojok recounts his troubled past, characterized by heavy drinking, which he initially turned to as a means of escaping difficult circumstances. He describes how alcohol provided only temporary relief, ultimately leading to more profound issues in his life, including financial instability. Despite numerous attempts to quit drinking on his own, he felt trapped in a cycle of addiction.

A pivotal change occurred when Ojok participated in our vision-casting module, leading him to stay focused, and he also decided to become born-again. This choice marked a significant turning point in his life, allowing him to reassess his priorities, especially concerning his family's well-being. He expresses regret over not prioritizing his children's education earlier and blames TRP for coming late to him with this program. Upon reflection, Ojok realizes that had he focused his energy on productive activities like farming, he could have provided better stability for his family.

Despite the challenges, Ojok remains hopeful and attributes his newfound strength to the teachings and support received from TRP. He emphasizes the lesson he learned: “If I work hard, I can make a better future.” This mantra guides his daily decisions as he commits to improving his life for the sake of his family. He is now focused on effectively managing resources, saving for household needs, and creating realistic plans for a stable future. Observable positive changes in his thinking and actions signify his determination to turn his life around.

Everything began to change when I encountered TRP. Through their play-based learning activities and group sessions, I found not only support but a new way of thinking. One activity that stood out was the rope knot challenge. At first, it seemed impossible to untangle the rope without letting go. But through teamwork, persistence, and leadership, we succeeded. That moment stayed with me. It made me realize something powerful. If I stay committed and work with others, I can overcome even the most difficult challenges in life.

Through TRP, I also discovered that I am not alone. Sharing experiences with others in my group gave me strength and hope. I began to reflect deeply on my life and made a personal decision to change. With faith and determination, I chose a new path. Today, I am focused on rebuilding my life. I am learning to manage my resources better, support my family, and plan for the future. My greatest priority is my children, and I am committed to giving them a better life. The journey has not been easy, but I now believe in something I once doubted: change is possible.

To anyone facing similar struggles, know this, you can start again. With the right support, the right mindset, and a willingness to change. A better future is within reach.

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