OUR FOUNDER
Sandra Abbo
Who She Is
Sandra Abbo is a Ugandan public health professional, social entrepreneur, and passionate advocate for girls’ education and menstrual health. At just 31 years old, she combines a Master’s degree in Public Health with over seven years of experience in social and behaviour change communication (SBCC). Her unique blend of technical expertise, community insight, and visionary leadership has made her a respected voice for dignity, equality, and opportunity—both in Uganda and beyond.
Her Mission
As the Founder and Executive Director of Girls Arise Uganda—a registered charity in both Uganda and the United States (501(c)(3))—Sandra has led the organization in empowering more than 3,800 schoolgirls in underserved communities. Through free reusable sanitary pads, mentorship, and sexual and reproductive health education, she ensures no girl misses school because of her period. Her passion is deeply rooted in her own lived experience, driven by an unshakable belief that when girls are given dignity and opportunity, they can rise to change the world.
In 2024, Sandra took this mission even further, launching an ambitious, self-funded project to build The Girls Arise School. Set on two acres of donated land, the school already has four classrooms at roof level and represents more than $20,000 of Sandra’s own investment. Once complete, it will provide a safe, supportive, and permanent home for the Girls Arise mission—offering quality education to hundreds of children each year, especially girls.
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Her Impact
Sandra’s commitment to change extends beyond Girls Arise Uganda. She currently works with the Belgian Development Agency (Enabel), where she leads large-scale, government-partnered SBCC initiatives across education, climate action, and vocational training. Her career has also included key roles at FHI360, StrongMinds Uganda, and the Ministry of Health Uganda, where she contributed to national-level programs in community health, mental health advocacy, and public education.
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A Fellow of the prestigious BUILD-PHED Fellowship—a pan-African program for next-generation leaders—Sandra is recognized for her transparency, grassroots engagement, and tangible results. She is not just an implementer; she is a builder, a believer, and a woman on a mission to ensure every girl, no matter where she is born, has the chance to rise.
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The Future
For Sandra, the school is just the beginning. Her vision is to see it grow into a thriving center of learning, leadership, and innovation for the next generation—especially girls. Plans include expanding facilities, introducing vocational training programs, and creating community outreach initiatives that extend support far beyond the classroom walls. With the continued help of partners, donors, and supporters, Sandra is determined to shape a future where every child, regardless of gender or circumstance, has the tools, confidence, and opportunity to succeed.
