During my internship in Uganda with Gulu Women’s Economic Development and Globalization (GWED-G), I worked on projects that directly advanced the organization’s mission of empowering women and improving access to healthcare. A central part of my work involved distributing MAMA Kits—packages containing sanitary and birthing supplies—to expectant mothers. These kits not only provided essential resources for safer deliveries but also offered dignity and reassurance to women preparing for childbirth. In addition, I assisted in educational workshops on HIV awareness and maternal health, helping community members learn about prevention, care, and available resources. Our team collaborated with GWED-G staff to brainstorm fundraising strategies to sustain these health initiatives in the long term. I also participated in interviews with women and community members about their healthcare experiences, including challenges accessing safe facilities and treatments. These conversations offered insight into the barriers women face and highlighted the importance of community-based solutions. Collectively, these activities were a clear extension of GWED-G’s mission to strengthen women’s voices, reduce gender inequities, and provide practical support in healthcare. Contributing to this work was deeply meaningful; it showed me how grassroots efforts can transform lives and affirmed my commitment to women’s health and midwifery.

The internship allowed me to translate theories and perspectives from Barnard College into tangible action. As a Women’s Studies major planning to pursue midwifery, I applied classroom knowledge about gender inequities, reproductive justice, and healthcare disparities to real-world contexts. Conducting interviews with mothers and community members required strong communication and listening skills and cultural humility—skills I have developed through coursework and campus engagement. I used my academic background to frame thoughtful questions and analyze responses in ways that respected participants’ lived experiences. Assisting in clinics and facilitating workshops demanded adaptability, organization, and collaboration with peers and local staff. Developing fundraising ideas required research and critical thinking to ensure long-term sustainability. These experiences bridged theory and practice, showing me how classroom knowledge can inform healthcare delivery and advocacy. The internship not only gave me valuable hands-on experience but also reaffirmed the relevance of my studies to the career path I intend to pursue in midwifery and maternal health.

One of the most challenging aspects of my internship was witnessing the systemic barriers women face in accessing healthcare. Through interviews and clinic visits, I heard stories of women traveling long distances for safe deliveries, struggling to access HIV treatment, and lacking basic maternal resources. Processing these realities was emotionally difficult, especially when contrasted with the healthcare access I often take for granted. Another challenge was navigating cultural differences and ensuring that our work was respectful and collaborative. Distributing MAMA Kits and leading workshops required careful consideration of local practices and perspectives. The logistical side of our work—coordinating distribution and balancing translation needs during interviews—also presented obstacles. However, these challenges became learning opportunities. With guidance from GWED-G staff and support from my peers, I developed patience, adaptability, and humility. I learned to approach problems by listening first, asking questions, and working alongside community members rather than imposing external solutions. These experiences reminded me that development and healthcare work are never straightforward, but they are deeply rewarding when approached with respect and persistence.

This internship has been transformative, shaping my personal growth and professional goals. Technically, I gained experience in grassroots healthcare delivery, community engagement, and advocacy, all of which are central to midwifery. I saw firsthand how providing simple resources like MAMA Kits can have profound effects on maternal health, safety, and dignity. On a deeper level, I learned the power of listening. Interviews with mothers and community members reminded me that healthcare solutions must be responsive to the voices and needs of those they serve. I also witnessed the resilience and strength of Ugandan women, whose stories of navigating motherhood under challenging circumstances left a lasting impression. My most important takeaway is that real change is collaborative: it requires the expertise of local organizations such as GWED-G, the trust of communities, and support from external partners. This experience strengthened my passion for pursuing midwifery, affirmed my dedication to women’s health, and fueled my commitment to ensuring that mothers everywhere have access to safe, respectful, and dignified care.