WE CONNECT TRAVEL WITH LASTING IMPACT
We are a global community of travellers, changemakers, and remote professionals who believe that travel can do good. Our trips combine adventure, culture, and social impact, supporting the education and empowerment projects of Foundation 22STARS in Uganda. When you join a `Social Nomads` Impact Trip, you don’t just visit; you contribute directly to local families and children through long-term, community-led initiatives.
Our Mission: To empower communities in Uganda through sustainable tourism, education, and entrepreneurship, while inspiring travellers to see the world through purpose.
GROUP MEET UPS
PROJECT VISITS
ACTIVITIES
SIGHT- SEEING
WORKSHOPS
COMMUNITY
WHY TRAVEL WITH US
A Journey That Changes Lives; Theirs and Yours- 💛 Real Impact — Every trip supports scholarships, meals, and microloans for local families through 22STARS.
- 🌍 Authentic Experiences — Live and learn alongside local leaders, visit community projects, and discover Uganda beyond the tourist path.
- 👥 Connection & Community — Travel with like-minded souls from around the world who care about making a difference.
- ✨Growth & Inspiration — Gain perspective, recharge, and come home with new purpose and lifelong friendships.
VOICES FROM THE PAST
“This was the most meaningful trip of our life, we laughed, cried, learned, and came home completely transformed.”
— Ulli and Daniela, GermanyITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS
What You’ll ExperienceWe will spend 4 nights in central Kampala, staying in a small green oasis with a pool. In Jinja, we will enjoy 3 nights in charming cottages, not only with a pool but also directly next to the River Nile. Over 8 inspiring days, you’ll combine cultural immersion, local impact, and adventure.
Highlights include:
- Visiting our 22STARS projects in Kampala and Jinja
- Spending time with the children and families your trip supports
- Attending workshops on local crafts, entrepreneurship, and social innovation
- A Lake Victoria boat tour to the source of the Nile River
- Group reflections, yoga, and evening bonfires
- Optional weekend extension to explore waterfalls or national parks
Each day blends purpose with play, one moment you’re helping with a community activity, the next you’re watching the sunset over the Nile.
THE ACCOMODATION
Kampala & Jinja
During our time in Kampala, we will stay for 4 nights in a beautiful accommodation in the heart of the city.
It feels like a small oasis, surrounded by greenery, where you almost forget you are in a vibrant capital. You might even spot monkeys jumping through the trees, and there is a lovely swimming pool to unwind after the day.
The 22stars Foundation in Acholi Quarter is just about 15 minutes away by boda boda (motorcycle taxi), keeping us closely connected to the daily activities on the ground.
In Jinja, we will spend 3 nights in charming cottages directly by Lake Victoria, at the source of the River Nile.
This is a truly special setting, combining comfort, nature, and space to reflect. The 22stars Foundation in Danida is about 20 minutes away by car, allowing us to stay closely engaged while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
For those who want to explore more, there are optional activities available such as white water rafting, bungee jumping, mountain biking, hiking, yoga, or simply relaxing by the Nile and taking in the beauty of the landscape.
YOUR IMPACT
Travel That Gives Back
We believe in full transparency. You’ll see exactly how your contribution supports long-term change, and meet the people whose lives you touch. Your participation directly funds:
Project Visits and cultural exchanges
Impact Workshops for you and the community
Nutritious Meals for our 550 22STARS kids
Local Entrepreneurship programs
YOUR IMPACT TRIP HOSTS
meet our local and international team!
Stella Airoldi
Your Host before, during & after the Trip
Stella empowers families in Uganda through education and entrepreneurship. As a Social Impact Nomad, she combines business with purpose and inspires others to do the same. She spends several months each year in Uganda and the rest between Europe and global impact events. Stella founded the 22STARS Jewellery business in 2013 and the 22STARS Foundation in 2018.
Susan Laker
Your Host during the Trip in Kampala
Susan’s story inspired Stella to start 22STARS. After meeting in 2009, Susan began making jewelry to support her family and later returned to school to learn English and literacy skills. Since 2015, she has led the 22STARS projects in Kampala, empowering her community and showing that it’s never too late to pursue education and create change.
Aidah Nambozo Wafula
Your Host during the Trip in Jinja
Aidah met Stella in 2009 while working at an AIDS Information Center in Kampala. She helped connect her with Susan and later became a key part of the 22STARS jewelry project. After moving to Jinja in 2015, Aidah founded the second project site, where she now leads the community programs.
David Wafula
Your Host and driver during the Trip
Pastor David, aka David Senior, has supported 22STARS since its early days and officially joined the team in 2020 to assist our project managers in Kampala and Jinja. With degrees in Theology and Organizational Leadership, he brings both faith and structure to our work. Based in Jinja, he leads his own church and loves singing and uplifting others. He is also the dedictated husband of our Project Leader Aidah Nambozo.
David Schmidt
Your Co-Host before & during the Trip
David, aka David Junior, joined the 22STARS family in 2024 after learning about the foundation through Maurice Bork, the founder of `Die Wichtigste Stunde`. He now sponsors four children and fell in love with Uganda during a Impact Trip in November 2024. Passionate about creating positive change, David is helping co-organize the next Impact trip to Uganda while running his own real estate company.
Steffi Oeffner
NOT a co-host for April 2026.
Stay tuned for upcoming dates!
Steffi has been exploring the globe since 2010, documenting her experiences on TravelToPuraVida. In 2018, after joining Stella`s "Social Impact Retreat" in Uganda, she emerged as one of 22STARS’ most passionate ambassadors and co-hosted several "Social Impact Trips" for in particular her German community. Steffi infuses every journey with heart, connection, and adventure. She plans to co-host another "Social Impact Trip" end 2026, so keep an eye out!
