Our Team
Alex Atuheire, Executive Director & Co-founder
"My journey has taught me that with hope, support, and determination, we can transform even the most challenging circumstances into opportunities for growth and impact."
— Alex Atuheire
Alex Atuheire’s life story is a powerful testament to resilience and perseverance. Growing up in the Lake Bunyonyi region of Southwestern Uganda, Alex faced significant hardships from an early age. After his parents divorced when he was just two years old, Alex was raised by his mother. With little income, survival was a daily struggle, and food was often scarce. Alex would seek help from neighbors—sometimes welcomed, but often turned away.
Living in his grandmother’s mud house, the tragic loss of his father in an accident further deepened their struggles. Like many children in Uganda, Alex encountered financial barriers that thwarted his educational aspirations. Despite being among the top students in his primary school class and across the sub-county, Alex had to repeat his final year of primary school, hoping for the chance to continue his education.
Against the odds, Alex managed to secure enough funds to start secondary school and subsequently found a sponsor from Canada, reigniting his dream of becoming a doctor. However, when that support dwindled, Alex pivoted to a teaching career, earning a certificate in education from Kyambogo University. Having overcome all of these setbacks, Alex became increasingly determined to give back to his community.
In 2014, Alex co-founded Amatsiko Preparatory School, now a beacon of hope for over 400 children. He also co-founded Go Organic Africa, a non-profit organization that empowers rural families to enhance their health and livelihoods via sustainable agriculture. Alex’s passion for community development and social impact is rooted in his life experiences and his desire to uplift those in need.
Today, Alex is a proud father of four—two sons and two daughters. His family also provides a loving home for three Amatsiko students. Alex's evolution from a life of hardship to a leader of hope illustrates his incredible resilience and unwavering dedication to his community and its future.
Alex Atuheire with Samuel, grade level 6 and 7 teacher
Alphonse Twinamasiko, Co-founder & Project Coordinator
"My school career is full of miracles and wonders. I have passion for helping others who grew up in situations like mine, while also protecting our environment, the knowledge of our elders and the beauty of our incredible land."
— Alphonse Twinamatsiko
Alphonse Twinamatsiko, Alex’s close childhood friend, shares a similar path of resilience, growing up as the seventh born in a rural family with ten children. As subsistence farmers, Alphonse's parents faced their own challenges feeding and supporting their large family. Despite their struggles, his mother always found a way to share what little they had with Alex.
At just eight years old, Alphonse began working by selling banana fibers in the town of Kabale to fund his education. From an early age, Alphonse had a natural talent for growing fruits and vegetables and caring for animals. Remarkably, he convinced his head teacher to allow him to pay his school fees with rabbits, a resourceful solution that continued for seven years!
Throughout secondary school, Alphonse and Alex worked tirelessly during breaks to scrape together enough money to stay in school. Alphonse went on to earn a diploma in Sustainable Agriculture and Development, alongside certifications in Organic Farming, Food & Nutrition, Beekeeping, Agroforestry, and Soil & Water Management.
In 2014, Alphonse co-founded Amatsiko Preparatory School alongside Alex and later launched Go Organic Africa in 2016. Go Organic Africa empowers rural families to enhance their health and livelihoods via sustainable agriculture. Alphonse leads Amatsiko Preparatory School’s community programs, as well as the Jane Goodall sponsored Roots and Shoots initiative.
Alphonse is married and blessed with one son and three daughters. His family also serves as guardians for two Amatsiko students. Alphonse’s name, Twinamatsiko, means “we hope in you” and Alphonse embodies this spirit of hope. As we face the challenges of climate change and population growth, Alphonse’s work and dedication can inspire hope in each of us.
Alex and Alphonse in their office at Amatsiko Preparatory School
Seth Gillman, UK Project Coordinator
Seth Gillman, the Financial Administrator for Amatsiko’s online donations, plays a vital role in connecting Amatsiko to global supporters and advocates. Seth first became involved with Amatsiko in 2014. While volunteering as a football coach with Ruislip Town FC, Seth organized a large donation of football kits, personally delivering them during a family trip to Uganda, along with educational materials and sports equipment from Crystal Palace FC. The joy on the students' faces is unforgettable! Seth continues to raise funds and spread awareness about Amatsiko. He recently supported two Ugandan children to receive life-saving surgeries. Through his unwavering commitment to Amatsiko, Seth maintains strong bonds with those in Uganda and beyond who contribute to our important mission.
Board of Directors
Mr. Boniface Orishaba, Chair, Teacher
Mrs. Agness Arineitwe, Vice-Chair, Farmer
Mr. Desire Tayebwa, Secretary, Farmer
Mrs. Dauphone Ahimbisibwe, Treasurer, Entrepreneur
Miss Joan Nyesiga, Member, Farmer
Miss Sarah, Twakire, Member, Teacher
Mr. Sam Tumwesigye, Member, Teacher