MY JOURNEY OF TRANSFORMATION: MASIGA DENIS, PEER EDUCATOR.

Tuesday, 29 April, 2025

*Masiga Denis (R) on a follow up visit with Leah, a teen mother whom he encouraged to return to school after child birth.*

My name is Masiga Denis. I am 26 years old. I work as a peer educator under the Heroes For Gender Transformative Action Programme and I am also the Founder and Executive director of the Namayingo Youths Forum in Namayingo district.

My life took a dramatic turn when I interfaced with the Heroes for gender transformative action. As a young advocate, I am passionate about promoting youth health and Rights, but I lacked the skills and support to make a meaningful impact. Heroes for gender transformative action changed my life through empowerment training. The program provided me with comprehensive training on Sexual Reproductive Health Right (SRHR), advocacy and leadership skills. I have evolved into a confident peer educator, GBV champion and youth advocate.

Leadership development

Through the Heroes for gender transformative action program, I improved my communication advocacy skills, I learned to articulate my message, engage with stakeholders, influence policy, build network and travelled to international forum sharing my experience and learning from Global Peers.

*Masiga Denis sensitizes young mothers on child spacing and available family planning commodities in Namayingo district.*

Personal growth

Heroes For Gender Transformative action program also transformed my personal life in regard to education. I am perusing diploma in public administration and management to enhance my skills and knowledge. I have become a known public figure, respected for my advocacy work. I have also managed to build a home, providing stability and security for myself. Before volunteering with Heroes, I was renting but as of now am no longer in a rental.

Impact

Heroes has supported us in forming a youth led organization called Namayingo youth forum where I am the Executive director. I have mobilized community, engaged young people in promoting health, rights, social justice , influenced policies and mentored peers by sharing my knowledge and skills with others, and empowering them to become change –makers.

*Some Members of the Namayingo Youths Forum pose for a group photograph with the Heroes programme manager and project staff.*

Gratitude

I am grateful for Heroes together with Amref Health Africa in Uganda for the transformative impact on my life. Their support has enabled me to make a difference in my community and beyond. I am committed to continuing this journey, inspiring others to join the fight for Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights, gender equality and social justice.