The Illustrated Memoir Project in Nakivale
We believe individual stories can change the world.
The Memoirs on this page were created in May, 2025 by participants residing in the Nakivale Refugee Settlement, Isingiro District, Uganda. Nakivale is the oldest refugee settlement in African and the fifth largest. Maketank Inc partnered with Alight to implement this program, our first in a refugee settlement, but certainly not our last. We cannot wait to get back and work with more young people in Nakivale and other settlements throughout Uganda and surrounding countries in the coming years.
We are always looking for partners and supporters to spread the reach of the Illustrated Memoir Project. If you are interested in supporting the work in Uganda, the US or elsewhere or would like to discuss partnering to implement the project in your location, please reach out.
Please be patient. We will be adding more books to this page every day for the rest of July, check back for updates.
Three Memoir Stories
by David Kwalikwalaba
Through the use of his gorgeous illustration style David shares three stories from his life in English and Swahili; Taking Advice is Important, David and his Puppy, and Talent.
Between Hope and Despair
by Willis Kasereka
Willis’s powerful illustrations bring his words to life as he details fleeing South Sudan and eventually settling in Uganda. He describes the politics and geology of his home country and the implications of life as a refugee.
Failure is My Success
by Arakaza Olivier
In Olivier’s memoir he explores setbacks and disappointments he has experienced, but instead of giving up, he found ways to improve himself and persevere, emerging stronger.
My Journey Over the Skulls to the Land of Freedom
by Birere Espoir
Espoir's powerful memoir details the circumstances that forced him to flee his home and travel to Uganda alone as a child and what he has learned since finding refuge in Nakivale.
Light in Writing
by Benedict Blonsy
Benedict describes how her upbringing and life experiences have shaped her and the peace and solace she finds in writing in her journal.
The Growing Gold
by Samuel Anzo Aguani
Samuel’s memoir details his early life in South Sudan, his first impressions of Nakivale, and his family and school life in Uganda. He shares additional stories and poems, all brought to life through his delightful illustrations.
The Ruthless Exit
by Mugisha Kevine
Kevine’s touching memoir describes fleeing in the night with her family when war comes to their doorstep, and the images that still haunt her.