From Civil War to Civil Duty

The episode features an interview in Kaplankaya during Harvest with Dennis Okwera, a model and activist, sharing his inspiring life journey from growing up in Uganda during a civil war to becoming a successful model in London. Dennis was raised by his grandmother after his parents separated, and he will discuss his experiences during the conflict in Uganda, where children were abducted to become child soldiers. Despite his challenging upbringing, Dennis managed to escape to London, where he was scouted to become a model. He used his earnings to support his community in Lumule, Uganda, particularly focusing on education for the children there.

[2:20] Life During the Civil War:

• Discuss Dennis' experiences during the civil war in Uganda, focusing on the LRA's abduction of children to make them child soldiers.

[6:50] Safe Spaces in Lumule:

• Describe the incident in Lumule when rebels used a bell to signal safety, allowing children to run to school amid the conflict.

[10:09] Life in London:

• Talk about Dennis and his brother's journey to London to join their father, highlighting their challenges, including difficulties in attending school due to legal issues.

[12:00] Entry into Modeling:

• Discuss Dennis' entry into the modelling world, including initial resistance from his father and eventual acceptance by modelling agencies.

[14:30] Modeling Career and Philanthropy:

• Explore Dennis' modelling career, focusing on his efforts to support his community in Uganda, including sending money to aid education and providing necessities like sanitary products for girls.

[18:00] Return to Lumule:

• Describe Dennis' emotional return to Lumule, reconnecting with family members, and experiencing a profound sense of belonging.

[20:16] Community Support Initiatives:

• Discuss Dennis' initiatives to support education, including providing meals for children to enhance their focus and attendance in school.

[24:00] Fundraising and Future Plans:

• Explain how Dennis raises funds for his community initiatives and outline his plans for supporting education and well-being in Lumule.

[26:00] Harvest of the Day:

• Discuss what gives Dennis hope, highlighting moments or aspects that inspire him to continue his philanthropic efforts.

Closing:

• Promote the upcoming episode in Kaplankaya, teasing the continuation of Dennis Okwera's inspiring story, emphasizing his escape from Uganda and his impactful contributions to his village.

Note: To support Dennis Okwera's initiatives, listeners are encouraged to visit the provided GoFundMe link: https://gofund.me/f2d1ff02

Join us next week for another inspiring episode featuring the anthropologist Wade Davies, discussing coca leaves and their importance in Columbia. Don't miss the next episode of Harvest!

You can follow us on Instagram at @HarvestSeries or @rose.claverie for updates.

Watch our podcast episodes and speaker sessions on YouTube: Harvest Series.

Credits:

• Sound editing by: @lesbellesfrequences
• Technicians in Kaplankaya: Joel Moriasi
• Music by: Chambord
• Artwork by: Davide d'Antonio

Harvest Series is produced in partnership with Athena Advisers and Capital Partners

Harvest Series Founders: Burak Öymen and Roman Carel