I am the son of Ocen Eujonio from Ajuri Village.

I am the grandson of Omara Gedion, Amononeno Parish Chief emeritus.

My life changed in 1995 when I lost my father.

I was still young and his death left a painful gap in my life.

Growing up without my father was challenging, but it taught me to be strong, responsible and determined.

As I grew older, I was able to face difficulties with courage. And to seek solutions instead of giving up.

Today, I look back on my journey with gratitude.

The loss of my father was painful, but it helped me shape my life to be the person I am today.

Who am I today?

I am a husband.

I am a father.

I am a pastor.

I am a good example to my community of a faith filled good orphan.

My past gave me strength to build my future.

I like who I have become, resilient against all odds.

This testimony was shared by Okullo, Research Change Agent in training, as one of his writing assignments, specifically, in answer to the question: “What is your favorite thing you like about yourself.” Okullo is among youth who are benefiting as participants in the CPAR Participatory Action Research Writing Masterclass, under our Dr. Paul Hargrave Memorial Centre Human Development Project, jointly implemented by CPAR Uganda and Canadian Physicians for Aid and Relief. With his permission, we publish his testimony in the hope that it strengthens and inspires others, especially those orphaned young, to overcome tragedy and to positively turn things around. In the logic of “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” Profiled photo @ Okullo at our Dr. Paul Hargrave Memorial Centre in Lira City.