2024 From a 2023 Perspective

So, where do we begin? It’s always a challenge, attempting to capture the magic and splendor of the year while shedding light on the more mundane moments of life. The end of the year is always a time of mixed emotions. It offers the promise of a new year filled with opportunities, the joy of Christmas holidays, candid reflections on the closing year, and the optimism that comes with the dawn of a new one. Yet, for some, it serves as a reminder of the loved ones that have passed on and the opportunities lost. Before I get into those intricacies, let me start by congratulating you upon navigating through another 365 days, filled with lessons and growth. Yes, you! You may have closed certain chapters, found meaning and purpose, bid farewell to that job, started or ended relationships, ignited some fires, and extinguished others. In the immortal words of Adele, ‘We could have had it all’.

2023 held significant meaning for me. It is the year I reunited with my family and loved ones, completed my Fulbright Award, explored various parts of the United States, and eventually, returned home to Uganda. These experiences have profoundly shaped me, providing a deeper appreciation of the diverse shades of life. I write about these experiences in this blog and I hope you can endure another detailed year-end recap. Buckle up!

Chapter I (Exploring America)

At the beginning of the year, I found myself in Ann Arbor, Michigan-United States. The daily call of winter gloom was hard to miss, and the biting cold became a constant companion as I pushed through deadlines and assignments for my program and fellowship. While I had encountered snow during my time in Oxford, it was nothing compared to the magnitude of the winter I experienced in Michigan. In Oxford, the snowfall lasted barely four hours in one morning. This virgin experience of snow turned out to be underwhelming—it barely covered the ground, and I could still see the grass in the college quadrangle. Dissatisfied with this fleeting encounter, I yearned for more snow. It felt as though a part of my U.K. visa conditions had promised me a snow-filled experience. Instead, Oxford greeted me with constant rain throughout the winter days, shattering my hopes of capturing a picturesque snowman scene to send to my mother and siblings in Uganda.

No amount of warnings could have prepared me for the Michigan Winter. Numerous emails and reminders from the Law School, friends, and church members emphasized the importance of stocking up on winter clothing. One of my mentors even said that there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing choices.

The chill in Michigan persisted, and with the onset of winter, the once beautiful snow turned into a real problem. While snow may be aesthetically pleasing from a distance or on a YouTube vlog, navigating through 11 inches of it was a nightmare. I found myself layering up, often wearing nearly three layers of clothes, topped with a heavy winter jacket and massive boots. Rushing to class became a battle against the elements; the biting wind would sweep heavy snow into my face, covering my glasses, My boots were frequently encased in a white, watery substance that resembled snow. Walking through this winter wonderland demanded extra caution. Underneath the seemingly innocent snow, treacherous patches of ice lurked, threatening slips and falls. Every step became a careful dance to avoid hidden hazards beneath the snow because I wasn’t Princess Elsa.

The winter season

Even during a snowstorms, classes continued without interruption. The romanticized snow experience I had yearned for, as portrayed in movies, took a harsh turn. Winter, unlike the vibrant summer I had experienced earlier, brought about a stark contrast—fewer to no outdoor events, no football matches, and most people retreated to the warmth of their rooms. The Michigan cold nibbled away fragments of me. In the absence of lively outdoor activities, homesickness hit me like never before. I longed for the warmth and familiarity of home, specifically a temperate evening with Uganda Rolex in hand. What  would  I have given for that!

2023 swept by in a whirlwind. My Google calendar was packed with many academic, professional, and social events, leaving little room for spontaneity. Every day was meticulously planned, and adhering to my schedule was important. The year took me on several journeys across the diverse landscapes of America, from the bustling streets of Washington D.C. to the vibrant cities of Chicago, Tennessee, and even Topeka, Kansas. Among these travels, my visit to Washington D.C. stands out as the most memorable.

As an avid reader of history, exploring Washington D.C. was an incredibly fulfilling and enriching experience. The colossal concrete buildings, reminiscent of ancient Greek architecture, served as imposing symbols of power. Bold and daring in their beauty, they made a lasting impression. Washington revealed itself as a true metropolis.The primary reason for my visit to D.C. was the Salzburg Cutler Fellowship conference. While I won’t delve into the details extensively here, as this isn’t a LinkedIn post, I’ll provide a brief overview. The Fellowship was established to honor the legacy of the renowned “super lawyer” Lloyd N. Cutler, acknowledged by The New York Times as a “Counselor to Presidents” and one of the founders of Wilmer, Cutler & Pickering (now WilmerHale, leading international law firm).

The essence of the Fellowship was to bring together outstanding students from America’s leading law schools. The overarching message encouraged us to be entrepreneurs in our own careers, to negotiate our terms, and to fearlessly explore less traveled paths, all while remaining focused on solving the problems in our respective spheres. The seminar proved invaluable, offering a gauntlet of wisdom from accomplished professionals and leaders. It was a transformative experience that not only enriched my understanding but also provided career guidance.

At the Salzburg Global Seminar in Washington D.C.

During my time in the Capital, I had the opportunity to visit numerous American historical places, including the White House, the United States Supreme Court, the Congress and the Department of  the Treasury, among others; these immersed me within the captivating stories from the annals of history. The narratives painted vivid pictures of the past. To add a personal touch to the experience, I enjoyed dinner and met up with  fellow Ugandan colleagues in D.C., creating a connection that bridged the gap between home and the vast expanse of America.

My crowning achievement in 2023 was completing my Fulbright Scholarship. For my graduation, I was joined by a close friend’s family from Illinois, who had graciously hosted me for Christmas in their wonderful home in Urbana-Champaign. Despite the challenges of a demanding academic year filled with numerous writing assignments, it felt like a full-circle experience. One of my fondest memories revolves around attending football games at the Big House. In America, football is more than a sport; it’s a cultural phenomenon. From the spirited marching band and cheerleading to the week-long hype leading up to the game and the vibrant tailgate parties, the experience was immense. My stay in the United States was enriched by incredible people, including those from my local church, classmates, professors, and colleagues I connected with through the Ugandan community.

At Graduation

Chapter II (Home Sweet Home)

I returned to Uganda as the year approached its last quarter, reminiscent of my position in 2020 when I came back from the United Kingdom. This time, I was theoretically more prepared, armed with a list of gifts for family and close friends. While unspoken, there’s a “serious” expectation that international travelers bring back something for their family—it’s a tangible tradition, even for those on a student budget. Having purchased most items weeks before my journey, my travel logistics were well sorted, and I felt well-prepared.

At the Detroit airport, I checked in my luggage and, upon seeing my flight number, I grabbed my handbag and headed to the boarding gate. The journey took us through the Netherlands, down to Rwanda, and back up to Entebbe. The stark contrast from the size and development of the airports from Detroit to Entebbe is the perfect illustration of how far apart countries can be. At the airport, my brother and friend, Daniel, eagerly awaited my arrival. It felt wonderful to be back HOME. My first decision upon arrival was whether to take the northern bypass express route or directly through Kampala. I had seen videos of Uganda’s elite “flying ninjas” jumping and robbing  cars along the Express route. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to brave that particular course.

My initial excitement about being back home was short-lived, overshadowed by lingering questions about what lay ahead. Settling back into life after an extended stay in another country proved to be a challenging transition. It took a couple of weeks for me to readjust to Uganda, especially as I reconnected with close family and friends. Additionally, I caught up on my trial cases, only to confirm my skepticism that litigation in Uganda is not as fast-paced as in other places. A case I had left a year earlier had not even been scheduled for a hearing. The Ugandan justice system moves at a slower pace than most. As the year progressed, I began exploring career-defining opportunities. This involved resuming a part time teaching role at my alma mater and practicing law in Uganda.

My experiences in Uganda, the United Kingdom, and during my Fulbright journey in the United States were remarkably diverse. Having had the opportunity to travel across three continents, I feel fortunate for the insights gained. This year, I delved into the intricacies of American culture, as detailed in my blog post about the American promise (accessible here). The enormity of the United  States was evident in everything, as I had been told – from the expansive streets, to the preference for driving huge pickups commonly referred to as trucks. The public transport system, however, proved to be less than satisfactory for me.

During a train journey from Michigan to Chicago, I encountered disruptions, with the train being canceled more than twice. Faced with uncertainty, I ended up paying for both a bus and train, unsure if either would operate. To add to the challenge, I’m still awaiting a refund for the canceled trips. This experience sharply differed with my time in the U.K., where the train system, at the time, operated efficiently. On a positive note, the legal training I underwent in the U.S. was enriching, and interacting with American JD students in the law school and other departments provided valuable insights. However, I also had to adapt to the mandatory tipping culture in the U.S., which was a notable difference from my experiences elsewhere. Let’s just say in Uganda, I have adjusted back to factory settings.

Chapter III- (Reflections)

Life has proven to be an ongoing learning curve, marked by each birthday ticked off, cycle, event, and even the challenges encountered along the way. With every passing year, knowledge has emerged, shaping my understanding of the world. As I anticipate the coming year, I find comfort in the notion that it is merely an expected progression, an opportunity for additional learning.

In this journey, we absorb lessons from every experience, and with each lesson, we evolve, making different decisions based on our past outcomes. Above all, I find solace in the belief that God guides our steps, providing a source of strength and wisdom throughout the twists and turns of life.

As the year draws to a close, my reflections and time spent with my family are moments of gratitude. This year, I am fortunate to be with my loved ones, acknowledging The privilege of such moments. Yet, in the midst of my blessings, I can’t help but think of those unable to share this time with their families and friends. Every Christmas brings a poignant remembrance of my friend, Sam, whose absence is deeply felt. His presence radiated with the vibrant hues of life in all its beauty. I reflect on how different things would be if he were still here, his infectious joy noticeably absent at every turn. The void created by his departure raises questions about moving forward. How do we navigate such gaps in our lives? The answer, perhaps, lies in the remarkable resilience of the human spirit.

As I consider the loss of my friend, I am aware that this year has brought about various losses for many – opportunities, connections with family and friends, and more. Life, with its unpredictable nature, throws both challenges and blessings our way. In recognizing our experiences, whether positive or negative, let us acknowledge the intricate tapestry of life.

I write this blog not just as a reflection but as a wish for a Happy New Year. Let us collectively reflect on the year that has passed, embracing both its trials and triumphs. Life may present us with unexpected twists, but I hold hope that 2024 will be a year of healing and positive transformations. I am excited about what it may hold, and I believe that, despite challenges, we have the resilience to face whatever comes our way.

And yes, in the spirit of optimism, “We can have it all”. Cheers to a brighter and more fulfilling year ahead!

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in this blog are opinions of the author and do not reflect those of any institutions or organizations mentioned.

98 Comments
  • Sharon Esther
    Posted at 23:17h, 30 December Reply

    Happy New Year Joel! This was such a refreshing narrative to read. May we be transformed in the new year.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 23:41h, 30 December Reply

      Thank you, Sharon. Happy New year.

  • Elsa Zawedde
    Posted at 23:27h, 30 December Reply

    Kudos, Joel, thank you for encouraging us with the insightful reflections. We will remain resilient throughout 2024.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 23:42h, 30 December Reply

      Thanks, Elsa. Resilience is the way. Thank you for these kind words and for taking time to read.

  • REBECCA BABIRYE
    Posted at 23:42h, 30 December Reply

    Joel, looks like you surely had it all. Thank you for allowing us on your 2023 global exploration. I join your optimism and hope we have it all in 2024!

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 05:35h, 31 December Reply

      Thank you Rebecca for these kind words and for taking the time to. You are most welcome. Happy New Year!

  • Adrian
    Posted at 23:43h, 30 December Reply

    Great review Joel.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 23:44h, 30 December Reply

      Thanks, Adrian.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 18:36h, 08 June Reply

      Thanks.

  • Silagi Wanambwa
    Posted at 01:40h, 31 December Reply

    Thank you Counsel Joel for sharing your experiences from different parts of the world. I am very certain that 2024 will bring even great joy and prosperity in all aspects of your life. Shine on and continue inspiring many with these rich insights and experiences. Happy 2024 and beyond!

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 06:00h, 31 December Reply

      Thank you Professor Wanambwa, for being part of my 2023 and for these kind words. Indeed, Happy 2024!

  • Timothy Mwesigwa
    Posted at 02:56h, 31 December Reply

    Joel-

    Thank you for sharing your journey & experiences throughout the year with us. It’s been a delight to read about your adventures, insights and reflections.

    Looking forward to more in the coming year! Wishing you continued success and happiness.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 06:02h, 31 December Reply

      Thanks, Timothy for taking the time to read this lengthy blog. I appreciate the kind words and wishes. I wish you a wonderful new year.

  • KeMargaret
    Posted at 02:57h, 31 December Reply

    A lovely piece to read Joel! Bravo! Life is indeed a learning journey, I think to the end. I enjoyed your piece a lot, and the meaning of HOME struck a chord. Thanks for sharing

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 06:03h, 31 December Reply

      Thanks, Margaret! I am happy to hear that you could relate with returning HOME, given your illustrious travel experiences. You are most welcome. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

  • Niwagaba Phiona
    Posted at 04:39h, 31 December Reply

    This is a beautiful article. 2023 was indeed a full circle for you.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 06:04h, 31 December Reply

      Thank you, Phiona for these kind words.

  • Danita T.
    Posted at 04:43h, 31 December Reply

    A brilliantly insightful review of 2023! Your thoughtful analysis wonderfully captures the rollercoaster of a year it’s been. Here’s to hoping for an even more abundant and prosperous 2024 ahead.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 06:21h, 31 December Reply

      Thank you Danita! I am glad that you found it insightful. Happy 2023 and thank you for taking the time read and sharing these kind thoughts.

  • Mufua Moses
    Posted at 05:07h, 31 December Reply

    The best is what we should aspire for at all times. 2023 has been good and we thank God for life and everything let’s focus on 2024 . Thanks Joel for counting your blessings in 2023 lest we forget and blasphemy the name of the Lord. Let’s aim for the best in 2024.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 06:23h, 31 December Reply

      Thank you, Uncle. I remain grateful for the growth in 2023. I agree, it is important to keep a Godly perspective as I count the blessings. Thanks for taking the time to read and for sharing this wisdom.

  • Remmy Wahanze
    Posted at 05:36h, 31 December Reply

    Hello Joel,

    Thank you for giving me your reader a sneak peek into how your 2023 panned out. Reading this well-written account not only inspired me, but also left me admiring your writing technique—the ability to weave numerous golden nuggets into a story—which is no doubt excellent! I can only appreciate you for the immense lessons I’ve learned from this account, and wish you the very best of luck in 2024.

    Warm regards,
    Remmy.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 06:25h, 31 December Reply

      Ah! That is very kind of you to say, Remmy. I am grateful. I am glad that you learnt something from this post, but most importantly, thank you for taking the time to read this blog. I appreciate that. Happy 2024, Remmy!

  • Joshua Stephen
    Posted at 05:46h, 31 December Reply

    Always looking forward to this recap. Perfect way to close the year

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 06:26h, 31 December Reply

      Thanks, Joshua. I appreciate these kind words.

  • MICHEAL MUGISA I
    Posted at 06:12h, 31 December Reply

    Wow! The experiences in the different chapters paint a picture of how different life is individually and yet it has the same template. Thank you for sharing your experiences with us Joel. May 2024 even bring more glorious experiences as we aspire to have it all. Happy New year

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 06:35h, 31 December Reply

      Thanks Daniel for sharing this reflective thought. I agree, our experiences may be different but at the very core, the lessons are mutual and universally applicable. Thank you for these kind words and for picking me at the airport when I returned.

  • Nasser Konde
    Posted at 06:42h, 31 December Reply

    I highly resonate with your thoughts. Litigation in Uganda is indeed not as fast paced as it should be like other jurisdictions. One of the reasons I am personally shifting to International Arbitration. The cold winters that you also talk about are the reason I opted for an online LLM as opposed to an in person and physical LLM.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 07:46h, 31 December Reply

      Thanks, Nasser for taking the time to read and sharing your thoughts. The Uganda litigation process can be frustrating on most occasions, despite the efforts to increase its efficiency. That alone, is a valid basis for exploring other modes of dispute resolution especially international arbitration. I specialized in international commercial arbitration for my degree at Jesus College, Oxford and have handled a few arbitration cases. It is a very lucrative area especially in this part of the world. Yes, the cold winters may deter one from pursing graduate programs with residence requirements; however, one must holistically (and individually) evaluate the pros and cons for online vs. physical graduate programs. In my opinion, physical graduate programs allow one to travel, gain exposure and networking, among many others. They also give one a physical cross cultural educational experience which is important in this global world. Regardless of the winters, I’d still go through this experience again, although I recognize that my view may not be common to all.

  • Edgar Kabahizi
    Posted at 07:03h, 31 December Reply

    Thank you Joel sharing your experiences with us. What a 2023 ‘ride’ you had!! Quite inspirational!

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 07:51h, 31 December Reply

      You are most welcome. Thanks for reading and for these kind words. Happy New Year, Edgar!

  • Emmanuel Okia
    Posted at 07:51h, 31 December Reply

    This is an interesting read, Joel. Indeed we can have it all. Happy and prosperous 2024.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 08:39h, 31 December Reply

      Thanks, Emmanuel. Happy New Year!

  • Joel Chemonges
    Posted at 07:55h, 31 December Reply

    Your experiences are adequate to write your own rendition of “Through all the changing scenes of life”

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 10:47h, 31 December Reply

      Absolutely! Thanks. “In trouble and in joy, the praises of my God shall still.” Such a beautiful hymn. Thank you for taking the time to read and sharing your thoughts, Joel.

  • Judith D Beinomugisha
    Posted at 08:20h, 31 December Reply

    Thank you so much Joel this is very informative and inspiring as well .I wish you a blessed and happy New year the heights are the limits for u

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 10:48h, 31 December Reply

      You are welcome, Judith. Thank you for making the time to read and for these extremely kind words. Happy New Year!

  • Ritah Imalingat
    Posted at 11:47h, 31 December Reply

    Thank you Joel for the greater insights and exploits. Beautiful peace it is
    Happy New Year to you

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 13:18h, 31 December Reply

      You are welcome, Ritah. Thank you for these kind words. Happy New year!

  • Joshua Katureebe
    Posted at 12:16h, 31 December Reply

    What an amazing piece, Joel?
    Thank you for taking time and compose this article from your experiences for us to immerse in it and learn something especially your words of encouragement and how the world is. I think I’m right to also say that I have traveled from U.S to Uganda through Europe.

    Happy New Year too!

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 14:03h, 31 December Reply

      Thank you Joshua for these kind words. I am pleased to hear that you learnt something. Yes, you have also travelled to the US- it is a shared experience. Happy New Year!

  • Masolo Adrian
    Posted at 13:17h, 31 December Reply

    Thank you for this brilliant piece. What a way to fill us in on how you journeyed through the year. All the best as we begin a new Chapter in the book, 2024.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 14:05h, 31 December Reply

      Thanks, Adrian for taking the time to read and for this kind remark. Absolutely, all the best in 2024!

  • Kizito Benjamin
    Posted at 13:39h, 31 December Reply

    Wonderfully written article!
    I immensely enjoyed the humorous tinge, and the witty writing style, not to mention that the insights were profound and deeply thought provoking. I honestly enjoyed the whole ride which the article gave me. Hope you have an amazing 2024 so we can be treated to another of these at the end of the year:-)
    Happy new year!

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 15:41h, 31 December Reply

      Thank you Benjamin for these very kind compliments. I am glad that the post was thought provoking for you. Thanks, I hope to keep on sharing my experiences. Happy New Year!

  • Winfred .L
    Posted at 14:04h, 31 December Reply

    Very engaging and insight filled piece of writing. Thank you Counsel for sharing your 2023 highlights. Just like the famous quote goes, “The world is a book and those who do not travel, read only one page”, this write up is reflection of this quote. As one of the Law students, who have been lucky to be lectured by you, I can attest to the fact that these experiences, trainings, resilience. Commitment, attention to detail, as described in the write up are very evident in your style of lecturing. To many of us, you were by far, the best lecturer! Wishing you the best in the next year and many more travel opportunities!

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 15:46h, 31 December Reply

      Thank you Winfred for the kind words. I am glad you found the post insightful. I agree with the quote, travelling opens up one’s mind to different worlds. I appreciate the wonderful feedback about my lectures. Obviously, like most human beings, I am very pleased to receive such positive feedback. Thank you, once again, for reading the post and for these kind words. I wish you the very best in 2024!

  • Uwineza Desire
    Posted at 14:21h, 31 December Reply

    Hello Mr Basoga
    I’ve been lucky to read this as your Student in year 1 semester 1 and year 2 semester 2.

    I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the incredible inspiration and guidance you’ve provided throughout the course of this year. Your dedication to our education is truly admirable, and your recent 2023 recap session was nothing short of exceptional.

    Your ability to summarize the key points of the year, coupled with your insightful commentary, not only illuminated the subject matter but also inspired us to delve deeper into the things discussed. Your passion for teaching is evident in every lecture, making even the most complex concepts understandable and engaging.

    Your unwavering support, encouragement, and commitment to our academic growth have left an indelible mark on each of us. Your enthusiasm for the subject matter is infectious, motivating us to strive for excellence and reach beyond our limits.

    Thank you for being an extraordinary mentor, for challenging us to think critically, and for fostering an environment that encourages learning and personal growth. Your dedication and expertise have had a profound impact on us, and we are truly grateful for your continued guidance.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 15:50h, 31 December Reply

      Thanks, Desire for this kind message. It is encouraging to receive such feedback. I am glad that the interactions have contributed significantly to your professional and academic growth. Thank you for taking time to read the post.

  • Uwineza Desire
    Posted at 14:23h, 31 December Reply

    And I wish you a happy new year 2024

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 15:51h, 31 December Reply

      Thank you. Happy New Year!

  • Racheal Ahimbisibwe
    Posted at 16:04h, 31 December Reply

    Thank you for sharing such enriching experiences.
    I wish you a HAPPY NEW YEAR 2024
    May it come with more opportunities

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 18:00h, 31 December Reply

      Than you for these kind words, Racheal. Happy New Year!

  • Racheal Ahimbisibwe
    Posted at 16:06h, 31 December Reply

    Thank you Sir for sharing with us such enriching experiences
    I wish you a HAPPY NEW YEAR 2024
    May it come with more and more opportunities

  • Tomusange
    Posted at 16:49h, 31 December Reply

    Joel the title of this wonderful story should be resilence. You fought alot of hurdles. Am proud of you Sir

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 18:04h, 31 December Reply

      That’s a great suggestion. I agree, it is a great title and is reflective of my experiences. Thank you for these kind words, Tomusange.

  • Lisa Atukunda
    Posted at 16:51h, 31 December Reply

    Definitely a beautiful story. I love what your mentor said “there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing choices.” Kinda means that the circumstances we cannot be inherently good or bad, but rather it is our preparedness and choices that determine how comfortable or enjoyable we can become. with the right clothing and gear, we can adapt to and make the most of any weather conditions. Happy new year Too Joel.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 07:07h, 01 January Reply

      Lisa, thank you for these kind words. Yes, preparation for what is coming our way determines how enjoyable or meaningful an experience is. Thanks for sharing that novel perspective. Happy New Year and thank you for taking the time to read the blog.

  • Waiswa Tom
    Posted at 17:21h, 31 December Reply

    Thank you for sharing your experience. These are stories that inspire belief and hope for the future!
    I wish you all the best in the new year 2024 even as you settle and connect with family and close friends back home in Uganda.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 07:43h, 01 January Reply

      You are welcome. I’m glad that this was inspirational. Thank you for the kind wishes and happy New Year!

  • Allan Katangaza
    Posted at 17:48h, 31 December Reply

    Great learning about the experiences & reflections from your adventure. Happy New Year!

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 07:44h, 01 January Reply

      Thanks, Allan. Happy New Year!

  • Christine Kirabo
    Posted at 09:43h, 01 January Reply

    It’s always exciting reading your blogs Joel! You’re so blessed to experience the life that you do.
    Thank you for sharing it with us.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 12:23h, 01 January Reply

      Thanks Christine for these kind words and for taking the time to read the blog. You are welcome. Happy New Year!

  • Simon Bigirwenkya
    Posted at 10:08h, 01 January Reply

    Every step became a careful dance to avoid hidden hazards beneath the snow because I wasn’t Princess Elsa.

    Let it go, let it go

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 12:26h, 01 January Reply

      I was in a Frozen musical! ‘The cold never bothered me anyway.’

  • Simon Bigirwenkya
    Posted at 10:29h, 01 January Reply

    It’s the ‘factory settings’ for me

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 12:27h, 01 January Reply

      Yes, things are different here.

  • Simon Bigirwenkya
    Posted at 10:30h, 01 January Reply

    O dear Sam! The feeling is mutual!

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 12:28h, 01 January Reply

      Thank you for understanding and feeling the same way.

  • Nyombi Jonathan Raisemayers
    Posted at 16:28h, 01 January Reply

    Greetings my Inspiring Lecturer,
    I was positively moved by your fascinating and transformative journey through 2023 to 2024. It was such an experience that we pick a leaf and learn from your encounters and achievements. Time tells memories, time makes us who we ought to be.
    I congratulate you Mr Joel. Match more ahead of 2024 you’re yet to explore. I look forward to learn from you always.
    I wish you a happy 2024 filled with love, joy and prosperity.
    God with us,

    Well read and appreciated,

    Nyombi Jonathan Raisemayers.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 19:29h, 01 January Reply

      Thanks, Jonathan. I’m glad you were inspired and picked a leaf. Thank you for these kind words. Happy New Year Jonathan!

  • PRIME NAKAWOOYA
    Posted at 11:29h, 02 January Reply

    Thanks for letting us in on your experiences of the year through various lens.

    This was quite insightful a piece, relatable and beautifully written!

    Thank you for sharing the adventure. Happy new year Joel.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 15:23h, 02 January Reply

      You are welcome. Thank you Bridget for these kind words. I’m glad that you could relate with the piece. Happy New Year!

  • Jacob Mumbya
    Posted at 18:53h, 02 January Reply

    Beautiful piece. Your ability to recount troubling and significant experiences with such wit is particularly noticeable.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 19:36h, 02 January Reply

      Thank you, Jacob for these kind words and for taking the time to read. I am glad that you enjoyed reading this.

  • Mujuni Elly
    Posted at 19:20h, 02 January Reply

    A happy new year Sir Joel.

    It’s through your shared experiences that encourage me as a young individual to have hope for a brighter future

    Blessings in 2024

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 19:37h, 02 January Reply

      Happy New Year, Elly! I am glad you are encouraged through this post. Thank you.

  • Lakwech Alice Kathleen
    Posted at 04:29h, 03 January Reply

    Am amazing read Mr Joel.Amazed by this

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 19:24h, 04 January Reply

      Thanks, Alice!

  • Syndia Chemutai
    Posted at 08:26h, 03 January Reply

    This was such an enriching piece! Thank you for sharing your experiences,Joel.
    Wishing you a Blessed and prosperous 2024.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 16:37h, 04 January Reply

      Thank you Syndia for these kind words. Happy New Year!

  • Michael Uzor
    Posted at 21:02h, 05 January Reply

    A truly enriching piece, Joel. You never cease to deliver and have captured your experiences here excellently. More grease to your elbow. Blessings

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 18:04h, 06 January Reply

      Thanks brother. That’s kind of you to say. Amen! Blessings to you too!

  • Nambula Elvis Boniface
    Posted at 08:05h, 07 January Reply

    What a wonderful insight Joel! Thank you for sharing with us. A truly touching and motivating piece. A happy and blessed new 2024

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 11:24h, 07 January Reply

      Thank you Elvis! You are most welcome. Glad that you were motivated and touched by my experiences. Happy New Year!

  • MUGONERO IVAN
    Posted at 04:28h, 08 January Reply

    ‘In this journey, we absorb lessons from every experience, and with each lesson, we evolve, making different decisions based on our past outcomes.’
    Well said Joel. Thank you for sharing your journey. This is what I needed as I journey into 2024. Happy new year Joel

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 17:44h, 09 January Reply

      Ah! Thanks Ivan, I appreciate that you took the time to read this post. I’m glad that it was meaningful and what you needed! Happy New Year, Munna.

  • Lorna
    Posted at 10:27h, 08 January Reply

    Thank you a great reflection of a year and a life. For most who dare to dream of having it all happy new year. And for some who just realised they can it’s going to be a great one.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 13:41h, 10 February Reply

      Thanks Lorna. I hope its a great one for you and that you can achieve all your dreams.

  • Turyamureeba Sheldon
    Posted at 08:32h, 09 January Reply

    You’re literally telling me to borrow a leaf of your writing.
    As I read, I had an urge of reading more and more.
    A what a beautiful piece! I love the way you start

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 13:43h, 10 February Reply

      Sheldon, Sheldon. You are ever so kind with your words. Thank you sir, and thank you for your service to this great nation.

  • Jeanmarie Kalibbala
    Posted at 17:42h, 09 January Reply

    Happy New Year and thank you for sharing your enriched experiences of the past year. It’s amazing how vivid you laid them out.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 13:44h, 10 February Reply

      Happy New year Jeanmarie! You are most welcome. Thank you. I am glad you found the post amazing.

  • Cyrus Turinawe
    Posted at 12:28h, 10 January Reply

    Thank you for sharing your journey(s) and reflections and/or lessons with us.

    I am extremely glad that we rubbed shoulders. You have quite a unique approach to life and career all together, yet you are still humble enough to interact with the younger generation, despite the magnitude of your achievements.

    I look forward to more fulfilling interactions.

    Blessings throughout the New Year.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 13:47h, 10 February Reply

      You are most welcome, Cyrus. We can all benefit from each other despite our differences. Humility is one of the most important virtues. Thank you for these kind words and Happy New year, Cyrus!

  • Jane Patience
    Posted at 06:21h, 01 February Reply

    Well done Joel, great blog.

    • Joel Basoga
      Posted at 13:48h, 10 February Reply

      Thanks, Jane.

Post A Comment