Joyce Matuka Kidulu is a woman of many hats: Country Director of Wise Choices for Life, Vice President of the Mothers’ Union in Mbale Diocese, a marriage counsellor, and a devoted wife to James Kidulu.

“I am a leader of proven integrity, a teacher, a family woman, a marriage counsellor, and currently the Vice President of the Mothers’ Union in Mbale Diocese,” Joyce Matuka Kidulu begins.

Her journey started in the classroom, where she served as a primary school teacher for 10 years. But her desire to grow and make a greater impact drove her back to school. After upgrading her qualifications, she transitioned into the NGO sector, beginning with Compassion International, where she served for 15 years, focusing on the welfare of young children.

Eventually, she joined Wise Choices for Life, where she has now served as country director for 10 years. Joyce is also a committed Christian and a proud mother of four.

“My heart is deeply passionate about empowering women. I support and stand with women who are struggling, ensuring they rise and thrive. That is why Wise Choices for Life felt like the right place for me; it is an organisation that looks at real, pressing issues such as maternal mortality and girls’ education,” she says.

Her academic journey was not linear. “I did not go directly to university. I took it step by step and eventually earned my Master’s degree in Organisational Leadership and Management from Uganda Christian University. I want girls and women to know that no matter where they start, with determination and the right support, they can achieve great things.”

A leader fueled by purpose
When asked what inspired her to lead, Joyce says:
“My story encourages others who may not have come from wealthy families. If you are determined and have a clear vision, you can become who you want to be.”
She also emphasises balance as key to sustaining leadership. “I make monthly plans and prioritise both my professional and family roles. When it is family time, I fully dedicate myself. I also delegate at work; I believe in the principle of ‘hands-off but eyes-on’ so I do not get overwhelmed.”

Church ministry is another pillar of her life, and with proper planning, Joyce has found a way to successfully juggle all her responsibilities. “It all comes down to structure, discipline, and knowing your priorities,” she notes.

Ten years of impact and transformation
Over the last decade at Wise Choices for Life, Joyce has led programs that directly impact women and girls, especially in schools and communities.

“One of our biggest achievements has been empowering women through savings and loan schemes. Many women initially had a poor culture of saving, but that has changed. So far, we’ve formed 37 women’s groups who now save, start small businesses, practice positive parenting, and build communication and decision-making skills.”
She points to visible transformations: “We’ve seen struggling women turn into confident business owners. We’ve also seen a reduction in domestic violence. These women are now too focused on building their futures to fight.”

Her leadership is also an example to others. “Some women tell us they rise because they’ve seen what we do and believe it’s possible for them too.”
The qualities that make a leader
Joyce believes three core skills are essential for leadership success:
•Communication: “Leadership is about relationships. If you can’t relate well with people, your leadership will likely fail.”
•Problem-solving: “Challenges will always come. A good leader must be ready to respond with solutions.”
•Decision-making: “You must lead with confidence, clarity, and impact.”

The power of mentorship and female role models
Joyce credits her mother and grandmother as her earliest mentors.
“My mother was hardworking, and my grandmother was a strong leader, especially in the area of marriage and family. I was raised by her and looked up to her in many ways.”

She also finds inspiration in high-ranking women in leadership, whose strength and grace encourage her to press on.
And when it comes to mentoring others, she leads by example.
“In our office, we are a team of eight, six are women. I create opportunities for women to lead, and in the communities we serve, most of our group members are women. Empowering them is not something I just talk about, it is something I live.”

Challenges Faced by a Woman Leader
Like many women in leadership, Joyce has faced cultural resistance.
“Some men in the community don’t believe in being led by a woman. There’s still a mindset that such organisations should be headed by men.”

Another challenge is limited funding. “The need is high, but resources are scarce,” she says. Additionally, people often expect her to offer personal financial help, assuming that working in an NGO means she has access to unlimited funds. “Sometimes, I wish I could help everyone, but it’s just not possible.”

What women’s empowerment means to her
“To me, empowerment means a woman with knowledge, skills, confidence, physical strength, and a voice, and she knows how to use it.”
She promotes empowerment by deliberately placing women in leadership roles and ensuring they have opportunities to grow.
“Giving women a seat at the table is one of the most practical and powerful ways to uplift them.”

Leadership lessons and legacy
Joyce celebrates her achievements with gratitude.
“I give thanks to God. I do not take anything for granted. Every success is by His grace.”
She hopes her legacy at Wise Choices for Life will be the continued growth and empowerment of the women she has supported.
“I want to see them rise even higher than I have. That would bring me great joy.”

Her most valuable leadership lesson?
“Leadership is about serving others with humility while influencing and empowering those around you. True leaders bring others along on the journey. Mentorship is key, so that even when you are no longer present, others continue the work.”
Joyce recalls the founder of Wise Choices for Life as one of the biggest influences on her leadership journey. “She entrusted me with her legacy before she passed on. Her trust inspires me to lead with heart and purpose every day.”

A few personal touches
•One talent she is very good at: “Networking.”
•Something she misses: “I miss the free time I had before I took on more responsibilities.”
•Favourite snack: “Small yellow bananas.”
•Notebook or phone for note-taking? “Notebook.”