Kampala, Uganda – Trailblazers Mentoring Foundation (TMF) was honored for its outstanding contribution to advancing the empowerment and wellbeing of adolescent girls during the high-level close-out event of the Girls Empowering Girls (GEG) Programme held at KCCA Mayor’s Gardens.
The recognition comes in appreciation of TMF’s pivotal role as a direct implementing partner in delivering one of Uganda’s first urban social protection programmes tailored specifically for adolescent girls. Implemented by Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) with support from UNICEF, the GEG programme has, over the years, transformed the lives of thousands of girls by equipping them with life skills, mentorship, and access to critical services.
Driving Impact at the Community Level
As a frontline implementer, TMF translated programme design into real impact within schools and communities. Through structured peer-to-peer mentorship, the organization supported girls to build confidence, stay in school, and make informed decisions about their health and future.
TMF also strengthened referral pathways, ensuring that girls accessed essential health, psychosocial, and protection services. By engaging caregivers and communities, the Foundation helped address underlying vulnerabilities that often limit girls’ opportunities, creating a more supportive environment for their growth and development.
Recognition of Commitment and Results
The award presented to TMF during the close-out event is a testament to the organization’s dedication, innovation, and results-driven approach. Over the course of the programme, TMF contributed to reaching 3,700 adolescent girls across two cohorts, supporting them to transition safely into adulthood.
Speaking at the event, UNICEF Country Representative Dr Robin Nandy commended TMF for its grassroots approach and ability to build trust within communities, which played a critical role in the programme’s success.
“This recognition reflects the collective effort of our team, partners, schools, and the communities we serve,” TMF Executive Director, Joyce Atimango noted. “Most importantly, it celebrates the resilience and achievements of the girls themselves.”
Celebrating the Girls at the Center
While TMF’s recognition marks an important milestone, the organization emphasized that the true success of the programme lies in the lives transformed. The close-out event showcased powerful stories from girls who, through mentorship and support, were able to overcome challenges, return to school, and pursue their aspirations.
These stories highlighted the importance of sustained investment in adolescent girls not only as beneficiaries of programmes but as agents of change in their communities.
Looking Ahead
As the GEG programme comes to an end, TMF reaffirmed its commitment to continuing work that empowers adolescent girls and strengthens systems that support their education, protection, and wellbeing.
The recognition serves as both a celebration of past achievements and a motivation to scale impact, innovate further, and reach even more girls in need.
A Continued Commitment to Empowerment
The award underscores TMF’s role as a trusted partner in delivering impactful, community-centered interventions. Building on the success of the GEG programme, the organisation remains dedicated to creating opportunities for adolescent girls to thrive, lead, and shape their futures.
As the applause faded at KCCA Mayor’s Gardens, one message stood clear, investing in girls works. And we are at the forefront of making that investment count.
