On February 26, 2025, the 55 Faces book launch by author Michelle Gardiner took place at the 22STARS Foundation in Kampala, marking a significant moment in amplifying the voices of women who have overcome tremendous hardships.
The event was filled with powerful testimonies of resilience, empowerment, and transformation. Women shared their personal journeys, the challenges they faced, and how they have moved forward to live positively. Among the remarkable stories featured in the book are those of our project leaders, Aidah Wafula and Susan Laker, two extraordinary women whose lives are a testament to courage and perseverance.
Aidah Wafula: Overcoming Adversity with Strength
Aidah Wafula’s story is one of resilience in the face of hardship. Having faced immense personal struggles, she found a way to rise above them and create a better life for herself and others. Her journey is an inspiration to many women in her community, demonstrating that despite difficult beginnings, it is possible to rebuild and find purpose. Through sharing her experiences, Aidah has empowered others to recognize their strength and embrace new opportunities for growth and success.
Susan Laker: From Stigma to Strength
Susan Laker’s journey is one of battling stigma and overcoming the odds. She has faced societal challenges that could have left her feeling isolated, but instead, she turned her pain into power. By sharing her story in the 55 Faces book, Susan has not only given a voice to her struggles but also inspired countless others to move forward and embrace a positive life. Her involvement in hosting the book launch at the 22STARS Foundation speaks volumes about her commitment to uplifting her community and ensuring that the voices of many other women are heard.
The book launch also featured moving accounts from other women, including Florence, who shared her experiences of helping families during the war with the LRA rebels, and Rachel, whose own struggles with access to sanitary pads motivated her to start a project for reusable pads to support young girls.
This gathering was more than just a book launch—it was a celebration of resilience, a platform for healing, and a movement to inspire change. Thanks to the efforts of organizers such as Michelle, Sharon, and Stella, these stories are now reaching audiences worldwide, raising awareness and offering hope to future generations.
The 55 Faces book launch in Kampala was a profound reminder of the power of storytelling and the importance of giving a platform to voices that deserve to be heard. Through these narratives, we are not only preserving history but also shaping a better future for those who come after us.
“Let us never forget the power of solidarity, the beauty of diversity, and the transformative potential of women united in purpose.”
— Carole Kinoti
“I see every woman being free. Free to be herself - to laugh and to cry. In this story every girl is free to play ... play from the freedom of her heart. I have a motto of 'there is something I can do', irrespective of the difficulties and opportunities ... There is something I can do.”
— Florence Ringe
“I want women to know that it doesn't matter who they are, where they are at the moment and who they want to be, that they are both a work in progress and they also can have it all.”
— Harriet Ogbobine
“The power of change begins with individuals determined to make a difference, and together, we can foster a future where every woman thrives.”
— Miriam Benyarku
