A Morning of Inspiration: Walking, Talking, and Connecting with Jacqueline Asiimwe

On Saturday morning, 19th April 2025, I had the honour of walking with a true trailblazer, Jacqueline Asiimwe, under one of her powerful initiatives, "Walk, Talk, Connect." It was an experience I had long desired to enjoy, and I’m so grateful I finally did.

Participating in this walk was actually on my “to enjoy” list for my last year on the third floor (read: my 30s). I had initially hoped to do it during my birth week, but as life would have it, it happened at the perfect moment, just a week after meeting Jacqueline at the FIDA Uganda offices. She had been invited for a book club discussion featuring her deeply moving memoir, Facing the Mountains. That encounter was the nudge I needed.

Come June 2nd, Jacqueline will mark two years since launching the Walk, Talk, Connect series, an initiative through which she connects with different people over morning walks. And even on the days when there’s no one to walk with, she still shows up and walks. Talk about consistency and commitment! It’s no surprise she’s widely regarded as a trailblazer.

I remember the first time I entered Jacqueline’s spaces. It was about eight years ago, when I visited the then-new offices of CivSource Africa, an institution she founded with a mission to refine philanthropy and reimagine the footprint of civil society in Africa. I was mesmerised by the space, the setup, the energy. It felt healing, like a home away from work. The kind of space that invites you to breathe, think, and flourish. From that moment, I began to follow the work of CivSource closely.

One of its programmes, the CivLegacy Foundation, is dedicated to investing in the personal and professional growth of leaders. I’ve had the privilege of participating in two of its initiatives: the Leaders’ Experience Retreat in 2021 and, currently, as a member of Cohort 4 of the GROW Leadership Programme, a one-year coaching and mentorship journey for leaders. (I’ll share more about that soon!) But for now, let’s go back to the walk…

As we walked, we talked—non-stop! Our conversation was rich, honest, and deeply reflective. Here are a few powerful takeaways that have lingered with me since:

On a more personal note, I was deeply challenged and inspired to do more for my health, a journey I’m already on. At 55, Jacqueline walks at a pace and with an energy that is nothing short of impressive. Her fitness is a testimony to the power of consistency and self-care. No wonder her body and mind are able to support the amazing things she’s doing in the world.

Thank you, Jacqueline, for generously sharing your time and your life. Thank you for making yourself available to connect, encourage, and inspire through the Walk, Talk, Connect initiative-open to anyone who desires to engage. And thank you for sharing parts of your story through your book Facing the Mountains. Your courage, clarity, and commitment continue to impact many of us.

May more leaders be inspired to create similar spaces-forums where they can be easily accessible and authentically connect with others. Through such platforms, leaders can greatly contribute to mentoring, empowering, and inspiring others. Together, we can build a better world-one where everyone thrives in their God-given purpose.