When Fairventures Worldwide opened its Uganda office in 2018, the team was quite small. Led by Patience Naamara, one of the first hires was a forestry graduate; James Thembo. Focused on planting trees and building meaningful relationships with communities, their work was challenging yet vital.
Here’s How Far We’ve Thrived: From 3 Staff Members to 44 Passionate Professionals
Today, the organization has significantly expanded to a team of 44. This development highlights the outstanding work and dedication of Patience Naamara as Country Director. In the last 6 years, the office in Uganda has navigated challenges, advanced sustainable forestry practices, and strengthened community development efforts.
Welcome our Co-Country Director in Uganda – James Thembo!
In November 2024, Fairventures celebrated yet another significant milestone with the appointment of James Thembo as Country Director in Charge of Forestry & Operations in Uganda. He will work alongside Patience Naamara, who will shift her focus to Partnerships and Fundraising.
Having risen through the ranks over the last six years and serving as Head of Field Operations for the last years, James reflects on the challenges he has overcome to create a lasting impact in sustainable community development and forestry:
“It’s been a rewarding journey. Transitioning from field operations to a leadership role has taught me so much about the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and staying connected to the smallholder farmers we work with,” James shared.
Together with Patience, James will jointly lead our office in Uganda, sharing responsibility to drive our mission forward. We are thrilled to welcome James to his new role and wish him great success as he embarks on this exciting new chapter!