An update from Uganda: Team Reflection Retreat

January 2025

The Team Reflection Retreat (TRR) took place from 22nd – 25th January 2025, bringing the AidEnvironment East Africa Team together. Members from the Upper Nile, Kapchorwa and Lwakhakha Offices joined those in the Kampala Office to reflect on the previous year’s lessons and craft plans for 2025. 

The main aim of the TRR was to enhance team cohesion, personal well-being, and professional growth. The retreat aimed to provide an opportunity for reflection, encourage open conversations, and allow for a refreshing break from the regular work environment. The event was structured around three main components: a session on mental health awareness, a tour of nature sites designed to foster relaxation, connection, and inspiration, and a session on reflecting on the 2024 lessons and forge next steps for 2025. 

Session on Mental Health: Prioritizing Well-Being both at home and in the Workplace 

The Team participated in an engaging session focused on mental health both at home and in the workplace. It is important to note that Mental Health is an increasingly important topic in today’s work environments.  A mental health professional led the discussion, which aimed to break down the stigma around mental health, teach practical coping mechanisms for stress, and promote a culture of support among team members. The session was a reminder that mental health is not just an individual concern but a collective one that impacts productivity, creativity, and overall team dynamics. By taking time to focus on well-being, the team was better equipped to approach their work with a sense of balance and empathy. 

Objectives of the session included enhancing awareness on the signs of stress, burnout, and anxiety; introducing techniques that enhance mental wellness; sharing tips on maintaining mental wellness in both personal and professional life; as well as encouraging open, judgment-free conversations about mental health. 

Team members were allowed to ask questions and reflect on the knowledge shared. Feedback was positive, with many team members emphasising the importance of creating a supportive atmosphere where mental health is openly discussed. 

Nature Sites Tour 

The tour was designed to encourage relaxation, creativity, and team bonding. The goal of this activity was to provide a refreshing change of pace, fostering both individual reflection and collective engagement. The peaceful settings provided a perfect contrast to the busy daily work atmosphere, offering the team a chance to unplug and recharge while enjoying the serenity of nature. The tour guide shared interesting facts about the animals in the wild, further enhancing the experience and sparking light hearted conversations among team members. 

The tour included visits of Muchison National Park and Top of the falls view and a hike up a hill, offering views of Lake Albert. The hike reinforced themes of teamwork and resilience.

Feedback 

The retreat was well-received. Some key takeaways and outcomes included: 

• Increased Awareness of Mental Health: Most team members said they felt more equipped to identify stressors in themselves and others. Several team members expressed a renewed commitment to self-care and supporting their colleagues’ well-being. 

• Strengthened Team Bonding: The mix of reflective activities and shared experiences helped team members re-connect with colleagues from the different Field Offices. The tour provided a relaxed environment where conversations could flow freely, strengthening interpersonal relationships. 

• Positive Impact on Work Culture: The discussions and activities prompted team members to reflect on the workplace culture, with many expressing a desire to continue conversations around mental health in future team meetings. There was a collective desire to create a more supportive and open environment at work. 

• Relaxation and Recharge: The interaction with nature served as a great break from the everyday work. The Team appreciated the chance to disconnect from their usual routines and recharge both mentally and physically. 

Overall, the team retreat was a success and met its goals of creating mental wellness awareness, fostering team bonding, and providing a space for reflection. Team members left the retreat feeling more refreshed, and motivated to implement the lessons learned into their daily work routines.  

At AidEnvironment, we acknowledge the importance of mental health and a supportive work culture. We encourage our team members to reflect, connect, and build stronger bonds of support. An empathetic and supportive workplace enables our team members to perform their tasks to the best of their abilities in a conducive and healthy work environment.