It’s well-known that sports have the power to bring people together, foster healing, and enhance joy among individuals from various backgrounds. This is precisely what Sarah Barungi, a young woman from Uganda, is achieving with the youth, particularly the refugee community in the Kyangwali Refugee Settlement located in Kikube District, Western Uganda.
Barungi, a graduate of Uganda Christian University (UCU) Mukono, is a teacher specializing in History and Christian Religious Education. However, she chose to set this aside to channel her efforts toward making a positive difference in refugee communities, and she has certainly made a significant impact.
She took on the role of a coach with the #GameConnect initiative, using sports as a means to assist youth, especially refugees, to heal, forge friendships, and uncover their inner strength.
Sarah believes that no one can navigate life alone. She advocates for those encountering difficulties to open up, form connections, and seek support from others. Such straightforward actions can help individuals approach life with a more positive mindset.
Prior to her involvement with Game Connect, Sarah gained experience in mental health support, which she credits to her training with AVSI Foundation, an NGO focused on aiding refugee communities in Uganda. Utilizing sports to enhance mental well-being was a fresh and enlightening concept for her. Now, she witnesses how football, teamwork, and community can reignite hope in young individuals grappling with various challenges.
Reflecting on this initiative, Barungi stated that “Even though Game Connect does not give out money, people appreciate its importance. It brings them together, supports their mental well-being, and helps them build social networks. In the end, they go home feeling happier and more connected to their communities.”
Barungi represents the many Ugandans dedicated to fostering a positive impact and establishing stability for refugees who have escaped from their home countries due to civil wars and other threats. Meanwhile, AVSI Uganda, with which Barungi collaborates, is a non-profit organization that offers humanitarian assistance to vulnerable populations in Uganda. They maintain offices in various districts throughout the country, including Kampala, Gulu, Mbarara, Kitgum, Arua, Mbale, and Lira.
