Whitney Nakanjako, Social Worker, Uganda
“Change begins when we listen to the quiet voices, to the hidden stories and to our shared humanity.”

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Whitney’s Story.

Whitney’s story is one of determination and deep compassion. Growing up in Uganda, she saw first-hand how poverty, inequality and limited access to education could hold back entire communities. That experience shaped her purpose: to create opportunities for others, especially girls, to thrive through education and self-belief.

A trained social worker, Whitney has worked across mental health, community development and education, helping children in some of Uganda’s most underserved areas return to school and rediscover their confidence. Her work often begins under a tree, in makeshift classrooms where resources are few but hope runs high. “Before teaching,” she says, “I tell a story. It brings joy, and it helps them arrive ready to learn.”

Through the Triple WellBeing® Fellowship, Whitney turned her focus toward one of the most pressing barriers facing girls in education: period poverty. Her action research explored how menstrual stigma and lack of access to sanitary products prevent girls from attending school and how open conversation, creativity and community solutions can change that. She introduced workshops that taught girls to make reusable sanitary pads, blending practical learning with empowerment, health awareness and environmental care.

Now pursuing a master’s in International Development and Economics at the University of San Francisco, Whitney continues to champion reproductive health education and sustainable change. Her voice carries a clear message: lasting transformation begins when we listen, include and uplift one another.

Listen to the full conversation with Whitney.

Episode Title
Stories of Triple WellBeing®
“If I can help one girl stay in school, her whole world and her community can change.”
— Whitney Nakanjako, Social Worker and Educator, Uganda

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