Shelby’s Journey: A Queen Elizabeth Scholar’s Adventure with SEATINI in Uganda

Shelby’s Journey: A Queen Elizabeth Scholar’s Adventure with SEATINI in Uganda

In the spring of 2015, Shelby Jamieson (Class of ‘16) was proudly selected as Dalhousie University Faculty of Agriculture’s first Queen Elizabeth Scholar. Her destination? Uganda, where she embarked on a transformative journey with The Southern and Eastern African Trade, Information and Negotiations Institute (SEATINI).

For three months, Shelby immersed herself in the work of SEATINI at their Regional Office in Kampala, Uganda. The organization’s focus on raising awareness about trade and investment issues, particularly among farmer groups, aligned perfectly with Shelby’s interests. From the grassroots level to national policy discussions, she dove into topics like food security, agricultural policy, and trade liberalization throughout East Africa.

Throughout her internship, Shelby encountered the real-world challenges faced by small-scale farmers in Uganda. From battling unpredictable weather patterns to struggling with limited market access, she gained firsthand insight into the complexities of agricultural production and trade in the region.

But it wasn’t all work and no play. One of the most memorable experiences for Shelby was attending a traditional Ugandan wedding introduction ceremony, known as ‘Kwanjula.’ Here, she had the honor of wearing a beautiful Ugandan dress called a ‘gomesi’ and participating in the ceremony, which symbolized the formal introduction of the bride-to-be and her future husband to their families and friends.

Reflecting on her time in Uganda, Shelby describes her internship as a fruitful and enriching experience. Although it has already come to an end, the memories and lessons she gained will stay with her for a lifetime. She plans to continue her travels, exploring Tanzania before returning home, cherishing the experiences and friendships she made during her time with SEATINI.