The February Photo:
DANCE IS THE SOUL OF CULTURE
In this image, you can see our sponsored children from 22STARS in Acholi Quarter in Kampala, during our traditional dance and culture program at our Sunday Lunch. The photo was captured by Kirsten Dünner, also known as Lily, an analog photographer who joined our Social Impact Trip in 2024. Her work reflects a mindful and timeless way of seeing the world, capturing honest, unposed moments from life in Uganda.
Music Is Life
How Sound, Rhythm, and Creativity Are Shaping Futures in Jinja
For over 4 years, music has become an essential part of life at our 22stars Foundation center in Jinja.
But music here is more than just sound.
It is culture. It is education. It is identity.
In the communities we work with, music has always played a central role in raising and guiding the next generation. Long before formal education systems existed, parents and elders passed on knowledge through storytelling, riddles, proverbs, traditional dance, and local instruments.
Through these forms of expression, children learned discipline, communication, and life skills that prepared them for adulthood.
Music was never just entertainment.
It was a way of life.
The Challenge: Talent Without Access
Despite the deep cultural importance of music, access to instruments and structured learning has been extremely limited.
Musical instruments are expensive.There are no nearby music schools.And there was no dedicated space where children could come together to learn, practice, and express themselves.
While knowledge continued to be passed down informally, there was a clear gap.
The talent was there. The passion was there. But the opportunity was missing.
The Solution: Creating a Space for Expression
Our project leaders in Jinja, David and Aidah, saw this need clearly and strongly advocated for a music program within the community.
Our project leaders in Jinja, David and Aidah, saw this need clearly and strongly advocated for a music program within the community.
In April 2021, we turned that vision into reality.
At the 22stars Foundation center, we launched our own music program and invested in our very first instruments:
Bass guitar
Bow harp
Solo and acoustic guitars
Drum set
Keyboard
Microphones and speakers
To help build the foundation, we were joined by music trainer Alex Valencia from the USA, who worked alongside our local teachers to set up the program and structure the classes.
Today, the program has grown into a vibrant and daily activity.
We currently work with 3 Ugandan music teachers who lead intensive classes for 4 groups of 20 children. In addition, around 40 more children participate in dance and introductory music classes, where they begin exploring rhythm, movement, and instruments.
Classes run every day from 14:00 to 16:00, filling the center with energy, creativity, and joy.
More Than Music
The impact of the program goes far beyond learning how to play an instrument.
The impact of the program goes far beyond learning how to play an instrument.
Music has become a powerful tool for emotional expression and mental wellbeing.
It helps children:
• Reduce stress
• Build confidence
• Stay motivated
• Develop discipline and teamwork
For many, it is the first time they are able to express themselves freely.
And that changes everything.
The Goal: Sustaining and Growing the Program
Since its start, the music program has been running successfully and we are seeing real, lasting impact in the lives of the children.
Since its start, the music program has been running successfully and we are seeing real, lasting impact in the lives of the children.
Now, the focus is on sustainability and growth.
To keep the program running, we cover:
• Salaries for 3 music teachers
• Learning and practice materials
• Maintenance of instruments
The total cost is €250 per month, or €3.000 per year.
With additional support, we aim to expand the program step by step to Kampala, bringing the same opportunity to even more children.
A Future Filled with Rhythm
Music opens doors that education alone sometimes cannot.
Music opens doors that education alone sometimes cannot.
It builds confidence.
It creates connection.
It gives children a voice.
And sometimes, that voice is exactly what they need to shape their future.
Because here in Jinja, one thing is clear:
Music is life.
“Music has healing power. It has the ability to take people out of themselves for a few hours.” Elton John
“Music has healing power. It has the ability to take people out of themselves for a few hours.” Elton John
Each month, we will publish a blog post exploring the story behind the featured Charity Calendar photograph, offering insightful commentary and additional images. Check here which months we already posted.