Meet Silver: Co-founder of Bwindi Conservation for Future Foundation
The Architects of Rubuguri A Life Dedicated to Children and Community Some people make noise openly. Others change the world quietly, so quietly that you only notice their impact when you start listening to the stories. Silver is one of those people. Before becoming a co-founder of the Bwindi Conservation for Generations Foundation, Silver was a schoolteacher, and at heart, he still is. His passion has always been education, especially for children who are often left behind solely because of where they were born. Silver Co-Founder, Bwindi Conservation for Generations Foundation | Owner of Nshongi Camp In this part of Uganda, many children live far from schools. Even government schools require fees that families cannot afford. For some, the cost of a uniform or books is already impossible. Instead of accepting this reality, Silver chose to challenge it. Using his personal resources, he established and funded the Rushaga Community School. It was built for children who otherwise would not have access to education. The school operates on a sliding fee scale, determined solely by what families can afford, which, in many cases, is almost nothing. There is minimal external funding or donations, and time after time, Silver steps in, using his own money to cover the shortfall, support the children, and pay the teachers. But his work goes far beyond the classroom. I’ve spoken to several people who speak highly of Silver, and what stands out most is how he doesn’t take credit for everything he’s done. He gives seeds to women so they can plant crops to feed their families or sell at the market. He provides money for basket-weaving materials, empowering women to create items they can sell for income. He buys food for children who would otherwise go hungry. He pays school fees when families cannot afford them. During my stay, I heard story after story. There were plenty of quiet testimonials from people whose lives were altered by him; Silver paid for their schooling when there was no hope. A family supported when there were no options left. A child who learned to read because Silver believed they deserved that chance. When I spoke with Silver directly, he never talked about what he had done for the school, the children, or the community. Instead, he spoke about what still needs to be done, how to better support the children, and about rebuilding the school, which has deteriorated over time. When I shared that I had brought a suitcase filled with sports equipment, especially baseballs, his face lit up. He spoke excitedly about how meaningful it would be for the children and said it would be an excellent idea to bring someone who could teach them how to play. It was a small moment, but it revealed so much about him: even in joy, his focus remained on opportunity, learning, and what might be possible next for the Children of Rushaga. And perhaps, before long, that wish will become a reality! Silver also owns Nshongi Camp, a lodge just 500 meters from the forest edge. It’s one of those rare places where nature constantly reminds you who truly lives there, with occasional sightings of mountain gorillas, elephants, monkeys, and antelopes as part of everyday life. The camp reflects him perfectly: grounded, purposeful, and deeply connected to the land and community. To meet Silver is to understand that authentic leadership doesn’t stem from position or authority; it arises from service, sacrifice, and consistency. It was truly an honor to have crossed paths with a man who has quietly shaped the future of so many children and will continue to do so for generations to come. This is Silver, Happy, and me at Nshongi Camp restaurant with Bwindi Impenetrable National Forest literally at our backs. The forest is close enough to walk into, and gorillas, elephants, monkeys, and antelopes are regularly seen. Silver co-founded the Bwindi Conservation of Generations Foundation with Happy, but what struck me most were the stories people shared. He helped many children and families without ever making a noise about it. If you’re visiting this part of Uganda, stay at Nshongi Camp. And don’t rush through. This place, these people, this forest—they’re worth more than a quick stop.
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