Gulu Walk Gala

Posted by Sean Sinclair-Day Feb 25, 2007

GuluWalk is an organization that has focused on raising awareness for the plight of the Acholi children in northern Uganda. In a region ravaged by conflict, each evening, thousands of children known as night commuters, walk great distances for a haven from being abducted or killed by insurgents known as the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA). Inspired by their story, in July 2005 Adrian Bradbury and Kieran Hayward, founders of GuluWalk, decided to attempt their own night commute. Their continued work has now blossomed into what The NonProfit Times has deemed "one of the World's Best Fundraisers" and a shining example of how individuals can make an enormous difference.

On February 22, GuluWalk held their inaugural gala event in Toronto, Canada. A sold-out crowd of more than 300 people helped raise another $50,000 for Acholi children. Amongst those who spoke at the event were Halifax MP Alexa McDonough, the Ugandan High Commissioner, Amb. George Marion Abola and Opiyo Oloya, who delivered a moving speech personalizing the plight of those in northern Uganda.

There was also a performance by Juno winner Donné Roberts, in addition to live and silent auctions featuring an impressive list of items from generous donors. The event's keynote speaker was former Canadian Ambassador to the United Nations, Allan Rock, who reminded those in free societies about our duty to assist those who suffer in other regions of the world.

Just four months ago, GuluWalk raised over $500,000 from their second annual GuluWalk Day which took place in 82 cities in 15 countries involving more than 30,000 people. Almost two decades of conflict between the LRA and the Ugandan government showed signs of improving in August 2006 but, unfortunately, the situation has recently worsened and it appears that the efforts of GuluWalk will remain as necessary as ever.