Owen Sheehan from Kilmeadan, Co. Waterford recently embarked on a profoundly moving journey to Uganda with World Vision Ireland, where he met his sponsored child, Noweli, for the first time and witnessed the transformative impact of child sponsorship firsthand. The experience, he says, was “unforgettable and deeply emotional… overwhelming, humbling, and beautiful all at once.”

From the moment Owen arrived, the warmth of the welcome was striking. Despite the language barrier, Noweli’s family and the wider community embraced him with open arms.

One of Owen’s most cherished memories was the joyful welcomes received at every stop, “Whether arriving at a school, a savings group, or a community meeting, the moment the van door opened, we were greeted with singing, dancing, and pure joy,” Owen said. “That warmth and happiness are something I will carry with me forever.”

Yet the trip also offered a sobering glimpse into the challenges faced by Ugandan communities. Owen admitted, “It was overwhelming at times to witness the extent of underdevelopment in Uganda,” but he was equally inspired by “the beauty of the culture, the resilience of the people, and the tangible difference sponsorship is making. It has changed my perspective on gratitude, generosity, and the power of community.”

The journey has left a lasting impact on Owen and his family. “Seeing the real impact it has made me even more passionate about this cause, and we’ve now decided to sponsor a second child ourselves.”

His message to others considering sponsorship is simple: “I would say absolutely do it. It’s one of the most meaningful and rewarding things we’ve ever done.”