On Tuesday, September 19th, Dr. Janice Smith, an esteemed Australian-based health professional with a wealth of experience and expertise in the realm of general medicine, visited the Rotary Club of Glenferrie. She wished to discuss her passionate efforts aimed at specifically aiding the vibrant community of Mbale in eastern Uganda. The program she has been dedicated to, known as Wise Choices for Life (WCFL), has been creating a significant impact in places like Uganda for many years.
 PP Charles Tran, President Mark Howlett, Janice Smith & Andrew Smith |
Wise Choices for Life is a registered Australian charity and a community development nonprofit training organisation specialising in reproductive health and life skills. Its mission is to eliminate intergenerational poverty. Collaborating with other training partners, Wise Choices for Life designs and delivers professional training in reproductive health and life skills. These topics are often taken for granted in westernised countries, where they are considered basic, foundational knowledge and skills. However, underserved communities suffer from the consequences of generations of social injustices, and many have never been exposed to the content in the WCFL training courses.
Janice spoke about how the training is customised at the grassroots level to be contextually appropriate and relevant to the local community's needs and culture. By doing so, they can equip and empower large groups of people in underserved communities, with the skills and knowledge needed to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty.
Janice's dedication to this cause is nothing short of extraordinary. Her tireless efforts have taken her to Uganda not once, not twice, but an impressive four times. Her frequent visits stand as a testament to her unwavering commitment to witnessing real, lasting change in the lives of the people of Mbale. The meeting was highly engaging, and Rotarians had many questions, eagerly seizing the opportunity to learn more about Dr. Smith's inspiring work and the transformative impact of Wise Choices for Life in Mbale.