At UCO Gear, we love hearing about the places our team members explore and the connections they make along the way. For Cheryl, a world traveler with a big heart and a serious sense of adventure, Uganda left a lasting impression filled with wildlife, warmth, and purpose. Cheryl is part of our amazing sales team at UCO Gear, making sure our customers are always taken care of—whether they’re shopping for gear or planning their next big adventure.
A Mission with Meaning
Cheryl’s journey began in the heart of Uganda, where she connected with Bead for Life, an organization supporting women entrepreneurs through handmade jewelry and shea-based products. These vibrant businesses are a testament to the strength and creativity of Ugandan women working to change their futures.
Another stop brought her to M-Lisada Orphanage, a spirited center where former street children are trained in music, dance, and performance. Cheryl spent the day with the kids, helping with lunch and experiencing the joy and energy of a community built on resilience and self-expression.
Wild Encounters in the Pearl of Africa
Uganda’s natural beauty is unmatched—and Cheryl dove right into the wild side. Game drives through savannah and forest revealed an incredible range of animals:
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Majestic elephants walking in herds
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Hippos lounging in the water
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Graceful giraffes towering above the acacia trees
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Lions basking in the sun and the rare sight of tree-climbing lions
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A stealthy leopard resting in the shade
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Playful warthogs, crocodiles, and countless Uganda kob, hartebeest, and oribi
She also spotted zebras galloping across the plains and was captivated by Uganda’s rich birdlife, from bright bee-eaters to giant storks and elusive shoebills.
One of the highlights was tracking chimpanzees through the forest—a thrilling and humbling experience to see them in their natural habitat. And on Ngamba Island, Cheryl spent time at a sanctuary for rescued chimpanzees, where she learned about conservation efforts and got up close with some curious, wide-eyed chimps—baby ones included!
A Birthday to Remember
Cheryl topped off the trip with an unforgettable birthday celebration: white-water rafting and bungee jumping over the Nile River. “There’s nothing quite like the adrenaline rush of launching off a bridge into the Nile,” she said. “I’ll never forget it!”
Exploring with UCO Gear
Though this trip wasn’t about gear, Cheryl always packs light and smart. Some of her favorite UCO products for future adventures?
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The Spork – simple, lightweight, and always useful
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The Mess Kit – compact and ready for any meal on the go
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And of course, the Ice Cream Ball – because fun and flavor belong in every corner of the world
Where’s Your Special Place?
Every adventurer has a place that leaves a mark on their heart. For Cheryl, it’s the vibrant landscapes and soulful connections she found in Uganda—from the thrill of spotting wildlife on the savannah to the joy of meeting inspiring local communities.
Where’s yours? We’d love to hear about your favorite outdoor destination—share it in the comments or tag us on Instagram @ucogear!
At UCO Gear, we’re all about making it easier to get outside, connect with nature, and create unforgettable moments with your favorite people. Whether you're exploring your own backyard or trekking across the globe, our gear is designed to support your adventures—wherever they take you.
Keep exploring. Stay adventurous. And don’t forget to bring the gear that keeps up.
