[Uganda, October 19, 2024] – Ashlei Watson, the renowned beauty queen and philanthropist, embarked on her maiden visit to Uganda to grace the launch of the empowering “Pivoting in Heels” coffee table book. The event, held at Le Chateau in Kabalagala, spotlighted women who have made significant societal contributions, including Ashlei herself.
Accompanied by her mother and manager, Denise Jenkins, who is also the co-founder of the Ashlei Watson Foundation, Ashlei seized the occasion to underscore her ongoing endeavors in Uganda. During the Covid-19 pandemic, she personally provided sustenance to impoverished single mothers in Kamwokya, using her personal funds, collaborating effectively with the Miss Uganda Foundation.
Ashlei has been actively addressing period poverty through a partnership with the Sheeba Karungi Foundation. The initiative encompassed the distribution of menstrual hygiene products to underprivileged girls, facilitating their educational pursuits and aspirations.
Furthermore, Ashlei joined forces with the Acts Fund to provide mental health training to 2500 teachers in Kampala. This program, conducted under the aegis of the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), sought to equip educators with the necessary tools to support their students’ mental well-being.
In addition to her philanthropic efforts, Ashlei has proudly represented Uganda as Miss Global Uganda 2021 during the pageant in Bali. She currently continues her role as Miss Continental Europe in Italy.
Ashlei’s connection to Uganda deepened when her DNA test traced her ancestry to the country. Fueled by a determination to effect positive change, she employs her beauty crowns and platforms to empower Ugandan communities through the Ashlei Watson Foundation.
The Ashlei Watson Foundation deploys a multifaceted approach to achieving its mission, including mentorship, poetry, motivational talks, inspirational training, Biblical faith, and personal financial guidance. The foundation also leads anti-bullying campaigns, focusing on cyberbullying, school bullying, and workplace bullying, while also educating young women on self-care practices, emphasizing self-love and holistic well-being.
Recognizing the urgent need to empower youth and women, particularly in emotional, economic, and mental health spheres, the Ashlei Watson Foundation strives to uplift and inspire individuals to surmount challenges and attain their full potential.
Goals and Objectives:
- Empower women and youth economically through financial literacy resources, business development opportunities, and entrepreneurship training.
- Enhance mental health awareness through workshops, seminars, and support groups offering coping strategies, stress management techniques, and mental wellness resources.
- Combat bullying through anti-bullying campaigns, awareness programs, and resources for educators and victims.
- Educate young women on self-care practices, emphasizing self-love, mindfulness, and holistic well-being of the mind, body, and soul.
Implementation Plan:
- Create and deliver mentorship programs connecting successful women mentors with aspiring young women.
- Organize poetry sessions, motivational talks, and inspirational training sessions to empower participants and boost self-belief.
- Collaborate with local schools, organizations, and communities to execute anti-bullying campaigns and raise awareness.
- Conduct workshops and training sessions on financial literacy, encompassing budgeting, saving, investing, and launching a business.
- Offer educational programs and resources on mental health, ensuring access to coping mechanisms, support systems, and professional assistance.
Ashlei Watson’s visit to Uganda signifies the commencement of an inspiring journey to empower and uplift the youth and women of Uganda. Through her unwavering commitment and the initiatives of the Ashlei Watson Foundation, positive change is clearly visible on the horizon.
