Sister Mary Florence Anaso, LSOSF reflects on her transformative journey with ASEC, celebrating 25 years of empowering women religious in Uganda. Through lessons in servant leadership, entrepreneurship, and agriculture, she has become a community leader dedicated to mentoring others and promoting sustainable development.
As we celebrate 25 years of ASEC in Uganda, I warmly congratulate the organization and its founders for their remarkable journey, achieved through God’s grace. We are grateful for the strong sense of community and the meaningful relationships fostered between donors and local congregations benefiting from this initiative.
My first encounter with ASEC occurred during a workshop on Administration from 2014 to 2015, which profoundly opened my eyes. Although the focus was on Administration, the transformative lessons I learned were invaluable. A significant topic was servant leadership, teaching me that true leaders embody humility and kindness—principles that have become cornerstones of my success.
Returning to ASEC for further courses made it clear that empowering Sisters involves understanding entrepreneurship’s benefits. This insight became one of the greatest gifts I received. I now engage in entrepreneurial activities that have led to substantial success in my mission. The stigma surrounding agriculture has diminished; those in farming are now seen as affluent. ASEC ignited my passion for agriculture, enabling me to raise a variety of animals and provide my community with nutritious, organic food.
ASEC’s initiatives have enabled many sisters to assume prominent leadership roles, positively impacting vulnerable individuals in society. I leverage the skills gained from ASEC through agriculture and mentoring others. My aspiration is to transform from a seeker of donors to a provider of support—a vision achievable through dedication.
Like any successful journey, my experience with ASEC was not without challenges. Serving as Secretary General often required balancing multiple responsibilities However, God’s grace and my passion for these programs allowed me to thrive. Now freed from those duties, I devote more time to promoting conservation agriculture.
I find joy in the positive changes brought by ASEC beneficiaries. Many initiatives have become role models, showcasing best practices. Participating in visits to these entrepreneurial efforts, whether physically or virtually, has been enriching.
ASEC significantly contributes to women’s empowerment in African communities. Sisters involved have achieved remarkable success in their ministries, embodying the spirit of servant leadership—an essential value that ASEC promotes.
As a grateful beneficiary of ASEC, I thank God for this enriching journey. I entrust ASEC to the care of the Blessed Virgin Mary, asking her to guide us in bearing lasting fruits. Wishing you continued blessings in your service. Viva ASEC—and congratulations!
Support Sisters Leading Change in Their Communities
For 25 years, ASEC has empowered women religious to lead with humility, innovation, and purpose. Programs like servant leadership and entrepreneurship have inspired Sisters to overcome challenges, create sustainable projects, and uplift vulnerable communities. Your support can help more Sisters become changemakers in their societies.
This article is addressing the following UN Sustainable Development Goal(s):
