Samuel Semanda
Executive Director of Hope Women Empowerment Organization
Samuel Semanda is the visionary Founder and Director of Hope Women Empowerment Organization, a nonprofit committed to uplifting and empowering women and girls in underserved communities through education, entrepreneurship, mental health support, and sports. Originally from Luweero, Uganda, Samuel unofficially began this mission in 2021 by providing food and basic necessities to vulnerable families in his hometown. What started as a compassionate, grassroots effort has since grown into a dynamic organization focused on long-term empowerment and social change.
Samuel earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Biblical Studies, followed by a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Hope International University in the United States. During his academic journey, he excelled both in the classroom and on the soccer field as an exemplary scholar-athlete, demonstrating servant leadership and a strong commitment to teamwork, character, and community—values that now underpin his work with the organization.
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Through Hope Women Empowerment Organization, Samuel focuses on developing the potential of girls and young women in Uganda by creating access to sports, education, and entrepreneurial training. He believes in the power of sports to teach discipline, resilience, and leadership—especially for girls who are often excluded from such opportunities. By combining these elements with educational initiatives and life skills training, the organization empowers women to become confident, self-reliant, and capable of shaping their futures.
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With a strong foundation in psychology and family therapy, Samuel brings a holistic approach to leadership—one rooted in empathy, faith, and a deep commitment to justice. His mission is clear: to inspire hope, unlock potential, and create a lasting impact in the lives of women and girls across Uganda.