BLOGS

We’re thrilled to share the story behind a heartfelt campaign led by Rob Bates and his daughter Alice Bates, who have launched the Official Fundraising Page for Ziingo Women and Children Initiative Uganda—a grassroots organization working to uplift vulnerable women and children in Eastern Uganda.

In Rob’s own words, posted to friends, colleagues, and connections:

“This is the Official Fundraising Page of Ziingo: Supporting Vulnerable Women and Children in Eastern Uganda (all money raised goes directly to supporting Ziingo, every little helps, no amount is too small).”

Alice’s journey began when she made the bold decision to travel to Uganda and volunteer with Ziingo, a move that sparked not only admiration but a deep desire within Rob to do more. He reflects:

“When Alice came to us and said she was heading to Uganda to work with Ziingo... I was slightly apprehensive, anxious yet very proud... within a very short period of time realised that: ‘we may be all on the same playing field, but we definitely don’t all have the same chances, tools and opportunities to live, participate, progress and achieve on that same playing field’.”

That realization became the foundation of their campaign—to “level the playing field” by bringing awareness and funding to the vital work Ziingo does daily, under the passionate leadership of Barbra Masibo, Ziingo’s Co-Founder and Director.

This campaign isn’t driven by guilt or sorrow, but by potential and hope. As Rob beautifully puts it:

“I’m not doing this because it makes me sad, because I feel sorry for these children and families... I am doing this because imagine the ‘beyond joy and laughter’ when opportunities, tools and things we take for granted are added into the mix. Wow…”

Here’s how your support can make a difference:

  • £15 provides notebooks for an entire classroom.
  • £50 sponsors a child for a full school term—covering fees, school supplies, and a daily meal.
  • Donations also fund women's agricultural training and resources—empowering them to provide for their families long-term.

Whether it’s through educational access or supporting women in building sustainable livelihoods, every pound goes directly to the programs on the ground in Uganda.

If you’d like to follow Alice’s firsthand experiences, check out her powerful reflections in her blog:
👉 My Uganda Chapter

You can also stay updated with Rob’s insights and campaign progress on LinkedIn.

Ready to be part of something meaningful?
Donate today via the Official Ziingo Fundraising Page and join Alice and Rob in creating lasting change. Together, let’s give children and women the tools to dream, learn, and lead.