Planting Seeds of Change: Celebrating Agribusiness Graduates at Hashtag Gulu

What a powerful and inspiring day it was at Hashtag Gulu! Our training facility was filled with energy, laughter, and pride as we celebrated the graduation of our second agribusiness training cohort. This was not just a ceremony—it was a moment of transformation.

Parents, local leaders, and community members joined us in honouring the hard work and determination of these young people. But more than celebrating completion, this day was about connection. It doubled as a hands-on mentorship session where youth and their families came together to strengthen support systems and reimagine agriculture—not as a fallback, but as a future.

Facilitated by Gulu District Agricultural Officer Mr. Nyeko Francis, the session challenged attendees to shift their mindset from subsistence to sustainability. He walked trainees through the essentials of successful agribusiness—from market research to crop and livestock management—and urged them to build networks with fellow farmers for better learning and market access.

What stood out most were the powerful stories of transformation shared by the graduates and their families—like Aber Caroline, who recently secured a work placement in Rakai District, reflecting how far hard work and opportunity can go; Ojok Steven, who spoke openly about how counselling helped him manage his anger and channel his energy into farming; Ojok Samuel, who proudly shared his progress growing cabbage with dreams of becoming a leading agribusiness entrepreneur; and Akena Bosco, a proud father beaming as he spoke about his son’s rise to becoming a trusted veterinary consultant in their community.

As certificates were handed out and cheers rang across the facility, our Team Leader, Ojok Michael, took a moment to remind everyone about the long game: “You will experience losses in business, including farming. But with every setback, you’ll rise stronger.”

The day ended with music, joy, and renewed purpose. Trainees left not just with skills, but with belief—in themselves, and in the power of their communities. Parents walked away with hope, knowing their children were not just trained but transformed.

We are deeply grateful to our partners, trainers, families, and every individual who played a part in this journey. At Hashtag Gulu, we remain committed to investing in youth-driven agribusiness—and to building a generation that grows not just crops but change.