By Irenge Barhame Elia, Founder of Go Green Social Initiative 

My name is Irenge Barhame Elia, though I prefer to go by Elijah Astute—a name that reflects my journey of resilience and wisdom. Born in South Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), I grew up surrounded by both the beauty and the struggles of my homeland. From an early age, I dreamed of becoming an astronomer, gazing at the stars and exploring the mysteries of the universe. I also had a deep passion for traveling, eager to see the world beyond my borders. However, life had other plans for me so it reached a time that everything changed.

In 2016, the escalating violence and insecurity in the DRC forced me to leave everything behind. Like many others, I sought refuge in Nakivale Refugee Settlement in Uganda, hoping for safety and a chance to rebuild my life. But the reality was harsh. For two years, I struggled without assistance—no food, no shelter, and no support. Hunger became a daily battle, and survival was uncertain.

Determined not to give up, I began working for others, doing whatever I could to earn a meal. During this time, I discovered permaculture—a sustainable way of growing food that works with nature rather than against it. I started cultivating my own crops, learning how to maximize small spaces to produce enough to eat. This knowledge didn’t just save me; it planted a seed for something greater.

As I settled into Nakivale, I noticed a heartbreaking reality: women and girls were suffering the most. Many struggled to find food, and the COVID-19 pandemic only worsened their plight. With lockdowns and limited opportunities, teenage pregnancies surged as young girls sought survival in desperate ways. Seeing this, I knew I had to act despite being limited financially.

In response to that with my ability, I founded Go Green Social Initiative, a refugee-led organization dedicated to empowering women and girls through sustainable agriculture, skills training, and income-generating activities. Our mission was simple yet powerful: teach women to grow their own food, gain financial independence, and reclaim their dignity.

What started as a small effort soon grew into a registered national organization. Today, Go Green Social Initiative has:

  • Trained hundreds of women and teen mothers in permaculture, enabling them to grow nutritious food for their families.
  • Provided handcraft and vocational skills so women can generate their own income.
  •  Offered health education and support, particularly for young mothers who faced stigma and hardship.

My journey from a war-torn childhood to founding Go Green has taught me that resilience and compassion can transform lives. While I once dreamed of the stars, I now find purpose in nurturing the earth and uplifting those around me.

But the work is far from over. With more support, we can expand our reach, help more women, and create lasting change in refugee settlements. I invite you to join us in this mission—because when we empower women, we empower entire communities.

To those facing adversity, remember: your struggles can become your strength. And sometimes, the most profound discoveries aren’t in the stars but in the seeds we plant and the lives we touch.