At Stickney Research, we’re all about empowering our clients to discover their passions and make meaningful impacts, and Sheila Hosner is a perfect example of that wealth discovery in action. Sheila has been a Stickney Research friend and client for about 14 years, and her story is nothing short of inspiring.
Sheila’s journey began after she retired from the Washington State Department of Ecology in 2015. With a long-held dream of working internationally, Sheila decided it was now or never. So, she packed her bags and headed to Uganda to volunteer at a hospital in a remote region bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda. There, she managed a healthcare program that provided much-needed surgical interventions to those who couldn’t afford them.
During her time in Uganda, Sheila met David Wamawaya, a dedicated nurse from the Bududa district who was passionate about improving healthcare in his community. One day, David invited Sheila to visit his hometown, and after an 18-hour bus ride, Sheila found herself in a remote, mountainous village where healthcare was scarce. Sheila didn’t plan on taking on a big project, but David’s vision for a local health center and the needs of the community struck a chord with her. What started as a friendly visit quickly turned into a partnership, and before Sheila knew it, she was helping to spearhead the Bukobero Community Health Centre project. It was a surprise turn of events, but Sheila couldn’t turn away from the chance to make a real impact.
The health center isn’t just about providing medical care; it’s about financial empowerment and local ownership. Sheila was adamant about hiring local workers, ensuring that the community not only benefited from the center’s services but also played a role in building it. “We insisted on hiring local people,” Sheila said. “They’re earning money, contributing, and they know this is their health facility.” This approach aligns with our philosophy at Stickney Research—creating wealth not just in financial terms but through opportunities that uplift communities.
The construction of the health center emphasizes quality, something often missing in rural development projects. Sheila’s approach is meticulous: from laying a strong foundation to using high-quality materials that can withstand the region’s tough weather conditions. “We’re building this to last for generations,” Sheila shared. It’s like investing in a solid financial plan—thoughtful, resilient, and designed for the long haul.
But the impact doesn’t stop at healthcare. The center’s second floor will serve as a multi-purpose space for health education, training, and even a study spot for local kids. With solar-powered lighting, it will be a beacon of hope in a region that lacks electricity. “This health facility will be owned by the community,” Sheila explained. “It’s not just about treating illness; it’s about creating a space for growth, learning, and dreaming big.”
Sheila’s story is a powerful reminder that we can all contribute to making a difference, no matter where we are in our financial journey. It’s about thinking beyond the typical paths and finding new ways to invest in what truly matters. Just like Sheila, who discovered her own wealth of purpose through helping others, we at Stickney Research are here to help you uncover yours—whether it’s on locally or halfway around the world.
Feeling inspired? Want to be a part of something bigger? You can support Sheila’s amazing work by contacting her at bukoberohealthcentre@gmail.com. Let’s think beyond wealth and create lasting change together.