Digital nomads are people who work remotely and travel the world while doing so. They are usually self-employed or work for companies that allow remote work. Digital nomads are a growing community of professionals who value freedom, flexibility, and the ability to work from anywhere in the world. However, finding a community as a digital nomad can be challenging. Moving from place to place, it can be difficult to establish roots and form meaningful connections with others. This was especially true for me when I arrived in Uganda. In this article, I will share my experience of finding community as a digital nomad in Uganda.
Uganda: A Brief Overview
Uganda is a landlocked country in East Africa. It is bordered by Kenya to the east, Tanzania to the south, Rwanda to the southwest, the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west, and South Sudan to the north. The country has a population of over 42 million people, and the official languages are English and Swahili. Uganda is known for its diverse wildlife, including gorillas, chimpanzees, lions, elephants, and hippos. The country is also home to Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa and the second-largest freshwater lake in the world.
My Experience as a Digital Nomad in Uganda
When I first arrived in Uganda, I was excited to explore the country and experience its vibrant culture. However, as a digital nomad, I was also concerned about finding a community and staying productive while working remotely. I spent my first few days in Kampala, the capital city, exploring the local markets, trying new foods, and getting to know the city. However, I quickly realized that I needed to find a coworking space to work from.
Coworking Spaces in Uganda
Coworking spaces are shared workspaces where people can work independently or collaboratively. They are a great way for digital nomads to meet other professionals, share ideas, and stay productive while working remotely. There are several coworking spaces in Uganda, and I decided to join one in Kampala.
The coworking space I joined was called The Innovation Village. It was located in the heart of Kampala and had a vibrant community of entrepreneurs, freelancers, and digital nomads. The space was equipped with high-speed internet, comfortable workstations, and meeting rooms. It also hosted events, such as networking sessions and workshops, which provided additional opportunities to meet people and learn new skills.
Connecting with Other Digital Nomads
One of the benefits of joining a coworking space is the opportunity to connect with other digital nomads. I met several other digital nomads at The Innovation Village, and we quickly became friends. We would often grab lunch together or go out for drinks after work. It was great to have a group of like-minded individuals to share my experiences with and bounce ideas off of.
Social Media Groups for Expats and Digital Nomads
Another way I found community in Uganda was through social media. I joined several Facebook groups for expats and digital nomads in Uganda, which allowed me to connect with others and ask for advice. These groups were a great resource for finding local events, such as meetups and cultural festivals. I also used these groups to ask for recommendations on things to do and places to visit in Uganda.
Volunteering with a Local Organization
One of the most rewarding experiences I had in Uganda was volunteering with a local organization. I spent a few hours each week teaching English to children in a nearby village. Not only did I feel like I was making a positive impact, but I also formed meaningful connections with the children and their families. It was great to be able to give back to the community and learn more about Ugandan culture.
Traveling and Meeting Other Travelers
Finally, I found community through travel. Uganda is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, and I took advantage of my time there to explore as much as possible. I joined tour groups, hiked mountains, and went on safari. These experiences allowed me to meet other travelers and form lasting friendships. It was great to be able to share my travel experiences with others and learn more about their cultures and backgrounds.
Conclusion
Finding community as a digital nomad in Uganda was challenging, but ultimately rewarding. By joining a coworking space, connecting with others through social media, volunteering with a local organization, and traveling, I was able to form meaningful connections and feel a sense of belonging. If you’re a digital nomad in Uganda or any other new place, I encourage you to seek out opportunities to connect with others and explore all that the country has to offer. Uganda is a beautiful country with a rich culture and friendly people. By getting involved in the local community and exploring the country, you can make the most of your time there and form lasting connections with others.