Staying true and focused helps you build a legacy, says Kayongo

Lydia Kayongo Muhumuza
What you need to know:
- Passion. Lydia Kayongo Muhumuza relocated to Minnesota, US at the age of 19. She is currently a community advocate and has a passion in business entrepreneurship and management. She has served in different organisations such as New Hope for Africa Uganda Women Empowerment (UWE) in Minnesota, and 30 Vision for Africa. She shares her journey and inspiration for community work.
Tell us about your leadership journey to founding New Hope for Africa and your contribution to the community in Uganda and Minnesota?
New Hope for Africa located in Mukono was founded in 2002 by my late mother who succumbed to cancer. It was founded out of the need to support under-privileged children with food, water and spiritual growth. Growing up, we always had nieces, nephews and friends at home and were about 18 children under one roof. This was because my parents always saw the need to take up someone, so for me giving and helping others came as second nature. UWE empowers women to connect with others in a foreign land for sense of belonging and the need to affiliate, inspire and empower each other.
What has been your most outstanding accomplishment when it comes to the work you do for the girlchild?
I believe in the potential the girl-child holds just like my grandfather believed in his daughters to inherit his property because he knew they were just as capable since he did not have any sons. My father, as a community leader also nurtured my esteem as a girl and would ask for my opinion at most of the staff meetings and so at an early age I knew the voice of a girl has to be lifted. Society needs to ensure equality for women. I encourage that we seize the moment for the girl-child and speak uplifting words to them.
What makes you a better leader?
I am always involved in any community activities and I never shy away from responsibility. I lead through participating because a great leader needs to engage. This has built trust among the people I serve and they believe in my journey because they see it through your actions. I believe in participatory leadership.
How do you build consistency on the job?
Before I get involved, I read up and understand the visions and mission of other partner organisations in order not to lose purpose. Any project should be representative of the mission statement. Staying true and focused to this helps you build a legacy and also keeps one grounded.
You are a mother of four boys and still really passionate about the girl child, how do you create the balance for opportunities for both genders in the work you do?
Right from home, when I am raising my sons, I know that they are the future husband, boss, neighbour and the heads of their families and so when I equip them I am sure their households are safe. Regardless of gender, my organisation offers mentorship programmes at the orphanage for both boys and girls and ensures both genders are well represented right from staffing where we hire male teachers as well and in skills such as cooking, welding, acting, bakery, and carpentry where all genders can see themselves in all roles.
You have been awarded for your work. Tell us about the awards and what the wins mean to you and the work you do.
It is an honour to be recognised for the work we do. In 2023 I received an award for outstanding leadership service and in 2024, I received another for community advocacy on behalf of UWE through VoiMmagazine for Africans in the Diaspora. The awards have motivated me to do more and also encouraged others that it can be done.
How are you able to make remarkable milestones in a foreign country? Any take home for a Ugandan professional living in the Diaspora?
Always know your roots and put God first. I come from a Christian home and my principles are shaped by faith. It is important to also remain true to your values and be firm that the challenges with the difference in cultures do not sweep you away. Work diligently be - cause success does not come without effort. Be the best employer until you can be the best employee. Always seize the opportunities that come your way. Also stay involved in your community and have a sense of belonging because isolation in a foreign land is overwhelming.
What do you want to be remembered for?
I am blessed to be a blessing and I believe in generosity and sharing what I have, to create abundance in others.
What is your favourite quote or verse?
The bible quotes, “ Guard your heart.” As a giver, you need to stay on the guard because you can be taken advantage of and exposed to sometimes negativity and may not tell when the load is heavy on you or who is for you and against you.