Our story
At the heart of JLOF lies the vision and determination of Mrs. Tamar Opira, our esteemed initiator and co-founder. Raised by parents who defied societal norms, ensuring that each of their children received an education regardless of gender. Tamar was afforded a rare opportunity in a time when schooling for girls faced staunch opposition. She stands as one of Uganda’s pioneering educated females, her journey beginning with primary schooling in Kitgum followed by High School in Gulu. She pursued her studies with discipline and passion, earning accolades that secured her a place at the esteemed Mengo School of Nursing and Midwifery, the first school of its kind in Eastern Africa.
Upon completing her studies, she entered into marriage with Jeremiah Lucas Opira. Though Tamar maintained a modest presence, she wholeheartedly supported the nonviolent independence movement and her husband’s involvement in Uganda’s struggle for independence. Following the military coup in 1971 the family was forced to flee into exile, finding refuge in Tanzania and enduring the hardships of refugee life, including living in refugee camps. These were tumultuous times that saw them scattered, marked by separation and prolonged periods of solitude for Tamar as she cared alone for their children. In 1974, the family arrived in Sweden as quota refugees, eventually reuniting under the auspices of UNHCR.
Returning to Uganda after her husband’s passing, Tamar encountered first hand stark realities of post-war devastation in a landscape rife with individuals in dire need of assistance, particularly in the northern regions. Motivated by compassion and a deep-rooted desire for change, she resolved to establish an organization dedicated to providing education to children in marginalized areas and spearheading initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable development nationwide. Thus, our foundation was born.
Today, guided by Mrs. Tamar Opira’s enduring vision, our organization remains steadfast in our commitment to ensuring equal access to education for all children, regardless of gender. We are humbled to continue her legacy and honoured to walk in her footsteps.