Uplift Uganda: The Power of One Step Forward

Food For Thought Audio
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Documentary

"Uplift Uganda: The Power of One Step Forward" chronicles one young man's journey to change -both himself and those in need. His goal? To start a business in Uganda. Listen and hear weekly updates on his journey! Uplift Uganda releases every Friday. Uplift Uganda is a production of Food For Thought Audio. For more content and information on this and other shows, be sure to follow us on social media and check out our website, foodforthoughtaudio.com.

Episodes

  1. 08/08/2025

    Finale - Q&A Special ft. Producer Kenny Mears

    Join host Trevor Dyches and producer Kenny Mears for the finale of Uplift Uganda as they debrief about the journey so far, lessons learned, and what's next.

    22 min

  2. 06/13/2025

    Episode 6: Village Life & Business Insights from Uganda, Catching Up After A Few Weeks

    Join Trevor Dyches from Osaka as he recounts his recent travels to the villages of Uganda, offering a unique perspective on rural life, agriculture, and the stark contrast with urban centers. He shares fascinating details about the cost of living, community dynamics, and the challenges faced by villagers, including healthcare access and government programs. In the second half of the episode, Trevor dives into his ongoing business explorations in Uganda, from the complexities of auto parts and construction supply chains to surprising opportunities in importing consumer goods like wireless chargers and kitchen gadgets. Discover the potential for new businesses and the innovative spirit driving entrepreneurship in Uganda. Uplift Uganda is a production of Food for Thought Audio. Written and produced by Trevor Dyches, with music and post-production by Kenny Mears. Follow us on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, or wherever you listen to podcasts for more content. Be sure to check out our website at https://foodforthoughtaudio.com/

    27 min

  3. 05/23/2025

    Episode 5: Supplying Tech, Games, Car Parts, Precious Metals, and Diamonds

    This week on Uplift Uganda, host Trevor Dyches dives back into the heart of Uganda’s business scene, uncovering new opportunities and the challenges that come with them. Trevor shares firsthand insights on the untapped potential of supplying local businesses with in-demand products like wireless chargers and other electronic gadgets—items that are rare but highly sought after in the region. He discusses the logistics of importing goods, from navigating shipping lanes between China, India, and Uganda, to the complexities of sharing shipping containers to keep costs down. The episode also explores the high-stakes world of auto parts trading, where prices in Uganda often surpass those in the US, revealing a lucrative gap for entrepreneurs willing to bridge the supply chain. Trevor recounts his experiences sourcing car parts and the surprising profit margins for those who can deliver to remote areas. Listeners will also hear about the challenges and possibilities in trading precious metals and diamonds, as well as the growing interest in digital design and creative industries among Ugandan youth. Trevor reflects on the ups and downs of the week, the importance of building the right connections, and the ongoing journey to find the most impactful business opportunities. Whether you’re interested in international trade, grassroots entrepreneurship, or the evolving digital landscape in East Africa, this episode offers a candid look at the realities and rewards of doing business in Uganda. Tune in for practical lessons, personal stories, and a glimpse into the future of commerce on the continent Uplift Uganda is a production of Food for Thought Audio. Written and produced by Trevor Dyches, with music and post-production by Kenny Mears. Follow us on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, or wherever you listen to podcasts for more content. Be sure to check out our website at https://foodforthoughtaudio.com/

    13 min

  4. 05/16/2025

    Episode 4: Opportunities in Jinja, Bored Games, Sports, and Animators

    Join host Trevor Dyches for a vibrant week in Jinja, Uganda, as he journeys with the Compassionate Entrepreneur Club and explores the unique blend of local culture, expat influence, and entrepreneurial opportunities that define this city at the source of the Nile. In this episode, Trevor shares firsthand experiences from literacy workshops in local villages, where interactive games help children master English, and reflects on Uganda's remarkable multilingualism. Discover Jinja’s dynamic expat scene, bustling resorts, and American-style eateries, and learn about the city’s challenges and opportunities, from rough roads to the scarcity of board games. Trevor visits a tech center run by the Be Selfless group, highlighting grassroots efforts to teach digital skills and trades to Ugandans. Sports play a big role this week too, with spirited football and basketball matches showcasing local talent, potential, and teamwork. Trevor also delves into the potential for connecting Ugandan creatives-like animators and video editors-to global markets and discusses untapped business ideas, from introducing popular card games to launching water sports on the Nile. Whether you’re interested in social impact, travel, or cross-cultural entrepreneurship, this episode offers an insightful look at the lessons learned and opportunities discovered in Jinja. Tune in for stories, reflections, and inspiration from the heart of Uganda, and find out how you can get involved or connect with local changemakers. Uplift Uganda is produced by Food for Thought Audio, with music and post-production by Kenny Mears. Uplift Uganda is a production of Food for Thought Audio. Written and produced by Trevor Dyches, with music and post-production by Kenny Mears. Follow us on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, or wherever you listen to podcasts for more content. Be sure to check out our website at https://foodforthoughtaudio.com/ A special thanks to the Compassionate Entrepreneurs Club, for more information check them out at https://www.compassionateentrepreneurs.com/

    16 min

  5. 05/09/2025

    Episode 3:  The Compassionate Entrepreneurs Club, Tourism Industry, Car Troubles, and Two Markets

    Join host Trevor Dyches in this week’s episode of Uplift Uganda as he shares a behind-the-scenes look at his time with the Compassionate Entrepreneurs Club-a group dedicated to empowering U.S. youth (ages 14–18) with entrepreneurial skills and business mindsets, and channeling their efforts into impactful fundraising for literacy and leadership centers in Uganda. Trevor recounts his experiences guiding the club members through Kampala and Gayaaza, highlighting their work at a local literacy center where they taught English and organized games to foster language skills. The episode offers a candid exploration of cultural exchange, as Trevor reflects on seeing Uganda through the fresh eyes of visiting students and how it reignited his own sense of possibility. Listeners get an insider’s perspective on Uganda’s unique economic landscape, from the stark price differences in tourist game parks to the realities of car repairs and the existence of two distinct markets: one for everyday Ugandans and another for those with greater means. Trevor also shares a personal story from attending a traditional funeral rite, illustrating the challenges of healthcare access and the importance of sustainable business in improving lives. This episode is a thoughtful blend of travelogue, economic insight, and cultural reflection, underscoring the mission of Uplift Uganda: to inspire new ways of thinking and doing business for lasting change. Stay tuned for more stories from the road as Trevor continues his journey with the Compassionate Entrepreneurs Club in Jinja. Uplift Uganda is a production of Food for Thought Audio. Written and produced by Trevor Dyches, with music and post-production by Kenny Mears. Follow us on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, or wherever you listen to podcasts for more content. Be sure to check out our website at https://foodforthoughtaudio.com/ A special thanks to the Compassionate Entrepreneurs Club, for more information check them out at https://www.compassionateentrepreneurs.com/

    14 min

  6. 05/02/2025

    Episode 2: The First Week, New Ideas, And An Interview With Fred Ouma

    In this inspiring episode of Uplift Uganda, host Trevor Dyches takes listeners on a journey through the entrepreneurial spirit and everyday challenges of life in Uganda. After a week on the ground, Trevor shares vivid stories from several cities, highlighting the realities of daily life, the hustle of hand-to-mouth living, and the chaotic energy of Kampala’s streets. This episode dives deep into the business landscape of Uganda, exploring opportunities for growth in transportation, food, and tech-while also confronting the hurdles of government fees and the complexities of starting up. Trevor discusses the potential impact of large-scale projects like a city train system, as well as the smaller, practical ventures that could make a difference for local communities. A special feature of this episode is an interview with Fred Ouma from Busia, a visionary entrepreneur determined to uplift his village by building a school and hospital. Fred shares how he’s turning dreams into reality-one step at a time-through small businesses like a chapati stand, and a fledgling taxi service. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, community-mindedness, and incremental progress. Listeners will gain insight into: The dual challenges and opportunities of doing business in UgandaThe importance of targeting both everyday consumers and wealthier marketsHow grassroots entrepreneurs like Fred are changing lives with limited resourcesThe impact of small steps toward big dreams in education and healthcareWhether you’re passionate about social impact, entrepreneurship, or East African development, this episode offers a candid, hopeful look at what it takes to move forward-one step at a time-in Uganda. Subscribe to Uplift Uganda for more real stories of hope, hustle, and transformation. Follow us on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, or wherever you get your podcasts for updates and new episodes. Uplift Uganda is a production of Food For Thought Audio. Be sure to check out our website at: https://foodforthoughtaudio.com/

    21 min

  7. 04/25/2025

    Episode 1: The Where's, The What's, The Why's, and The Who's Behind Uplift Uganda

    In this heartfelt first episode, 22-year-old Trevor Dyches introduces the mission behind Uplift Uganda. With a blend of personal experience, business insight, and spiritual conviction, Trevor shares the story of how a missionary call to Uganda became the spark for a greater purpose. He unpacks his goals for returning—this time not as a missionary, but as a partner seeking to build sustainable business solutions that empower Ugandans. From exploring lease-to-own models and retail ventures to connecting Ugandan entrepreneurs with American consumers, Trevor dives into the practical strategies and moral questions behind doing good better. Joined by inspiration from social impact mentors like BYU’s Aaron Miller, Trevor explains why he’s not there to "save," but to learn, collaborate, and uplift—both himself and the community that once uplifted him. Discover the three cities he’ll be working in, the kinds of ventures he’s considering, and why this isn’t just a humanitarian trip—it’s a calling. Weekly updates, interviews, and stories of trial, growth, and miracles to come. Tune in each week for new episodes documenting the journey, of learning to make a real impact withUplift Uganda. Uplift Uganda is a production of Food For Thought Audio. Be sure to check out our website at: https://foodforthoughtaudio.com/ Aaron Miller is the host of the How To Help podcast, be sure to check out his show here: https://how-to-help.com/podcast/

    24 min

  8. Season 1 Trailer

    Trailer

    Get a little sneak peek into what Uplift Uganda is all about!

    1 min

Trailer

About

"Uplift Uganda: The Power of One Step Forward" chronicles one young man's journey to change -both himself and those in need. His goal? To start a business in Uganda. Listen and hear weekly updates on his journey! Uplift Uganda releases every Friday. Uplift Uganda is a production of Food For Thought Audio. For more content and information on this and other shows, be sure to follow us on social media and check out our website, foodforthoughtaudio.com.

Information