Ashlei Watson, renowned beauty queen and philanthropist, made her first visit to Uganda to attend the launch of the Pivoting in Heels coffee table book. The event, held at Le Chateau in Kabalagala, showcased women who have made significant contributions to society, including Ashlei herself.
Accompanied by her mother and manager, Denise Jenkins, who is also the co-founder of the Ashlei Watson Foundation, Ashlei took the opportunity to highlight her ongoing work in Uganda. During the Covid-19 pandemic, she personally fed poor single mothers in Kamwokya with her own funds. She also collaborated with the Miss Uganda Foundation to execute this initiative successfully.
Ashlei has been actively involved in combating period poverty through a partnership with the Sheebah Karungi Foundation. The initiative included the donation of menstrual hygiene products to disadvantaged girls, enabling them to stay in school and pursue their dreams.
Furthermore, Ashlei collaborated with Acts Fund to provide mental health training to 2500 teachers in Kampala. This program, organized by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), aimed to equip educators with the necessary tools to support their students’ mental well-being.
In addition to her charitable efforts, Ashlei has proudly represented Uganda as Miss Global Uganda 2021 during the pageant held in Bali. Currently, she continues to represent Uganda as Miss Continental Europe in Italy.
Ashlei’s connection to Uganda was strengthened when her DNA test traced her roots to the country. Determined to make a positive impact, she utilizes her beauty crowns and platforms to empower communities in Uganda through the Ashlei Watson Foundation.
The Ashlei Watson Foundation employs various methods to achieve its impact, including mentorship, poetry, motivational talks, inspirational training, Biblical Faith, and personal financial material. The foundation also conducts anti-bullying campaigns, with a focus on cyberbullying, school bullying, and workplace bullying. Additionally, it aims to educate young women on self-care practices, emphasizing self-love and holistic well-being.
Recognizing the pressing need to empower youth and women, particularly in the areas of emotional, economic, and mental health, the Ashlei Watson Foundation aims to uplift and inspire individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential.
Goals and Objectives:
1. Empower women and youth economically through financial literacy resources, business development opportunities, and entrepreneurship training.
2. Enhance mental health awareness through workshops, seminars, and support groups providing coping strategies, stress management techniques, and mental wellness resources.
3. Combat bullying through anti-bullying campaigns, awareness programs, and resources for educators and victims.
4. Educate young women on self-care practices, emphasizing self-love, mindfulness, and holistic well-being of the mind, body, and soul.
Implementation Plan:
1. Develop and deliver mentorship programs connecting successful women mentors with aspiring young women.
2. Organize poetry sessions, motivational talks, and inspirational training sessions to empower participants and boost self-belief.
3. Collaborate with local schools, organizations, and communities to implement anti-bullying campaigns and raise awareness.
4. Conduct workshops and training sessions on financial literacy, covering budgeting, saving, investing, and starting a business.
5. Offer educational programs and resources on mental health, ensuring access to coping mechanisms, support systems, and professional help.
Ashlei Watson’s visit to Uganda marks the beginning of an exciting journey to empower and uplift the youth and women of Uganda. Through her dedication and the initiatives of the Ashlei Watson Foundation, positive change is on the horizon.
