Who We Are

A youth-led movement for lasting change

BetterLife International was founded in 2021 by a group of young leaders and refugees who shared a vision: a world where every person, regardless of their background, can live with dignity, opportunity and hope. Born out of lived experiences of displacement, marginalization and resilience, our organization is youth-led and refugee-inspired, driven by the belief that those who have faced adversity have the greatest insights and solutions for creating lasting change.

We work hand-in-hand with children, youth, refugees, and internally displaced persons across Uganda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Ghana, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, designing programs that empower communities, build livelihoods, and strengthen resilience. Our interventions focus on sustainable agriculture, green skills, climate education, renewable energy, community health, and social cohesion, ensuring that those most vulnerable have the tools to thrive.

At BetterLife International, our approach is rooted in the voices of the communities we serve. Every program is shaped by local needs, co-created with young people, and strengthened by the resilience, courage, and creativity of those who refuse to give up despite life's challenges. We believe that hope is not given, it is built — and that together, communities can transform adversity into opportunity.

BetterLife International team
BetterLife International in the field
Purpose

Our Mission

To create a better life for everyone by promoting sustainable practices, empowering young people, supporting vulnerable groups, and fostering peace and equality in communities.

Our Vision

We envision a world where every person, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to live a fulfilling and sustainable life.

BetterLife International journey
Our Journey

From a Local Idea to a Regional Movement

2021

Founded in Uganda by young leaders and refugees.

2022

Expanded to South Sudan and Tanzania.

2023

Launched the Soillla app; expanded to Ghana and DR Congo.

2024

Reached 1M trees planted and 90,000+ people impacted.

Core Values

The Principles That Guide Everything We Do

01

Sustainability

We focus on long-term solutions that protect the environment and can be maintained by communities themselves.

02

Empowerment

We believe in building local capacity and leadership, especially among young people and women.

03

Innovation

We embrace technology and creative solutions to address complex environmental and social challenges.

04

Inclusivity

We work with all community members regardless of background, ensuring no one is left behind.

BetterLife International values in action
Leadership

Meet Our Leadership Team

Our leadership team combines local expertise with international experience.

Ayebare Denise

Ayebare Denise

Executive Director & Founder
Ahabwe Samuel

Ahabwe Samuel

Head of Finance
Douglas Drake Onen

Douglas Drake Onen

Chief Operations Officer
Meet the Full Team →

BetterLife International is changing lives at every level, empowering youth, building resilient communities, and inspiring hope where it's needed most.

— BetterLife International Board of Directors

Want to know more about our board of directors?

Meet the global leaders and advisors who guide our strategy.

Meet the Board →