Who we are

Uganda the Pearl of Africa Victoria Association Inc., sometimes referred to as (UPAVA) (also the Ugandans in Victoria Association or the Ugandans Association) is an organisation that brings together individuals who live, work or study in Victoria, Australia and identify with Uganda through birth, descent, marriage or association.

The organisation was officially registered on February 11, 2013 to provide a platform for dealing with issues impacting the lives of its members as they settle in Australia as well as link up the mainstream communities with the rest of the world, including our home country.

Currently, the organisation emphasises the health, welfare and well-being of its members and supports the development and integration of its members in Victoria through disseminating information that will improve their professional, social and economic lifestyle, encouraging networking, and providing social support as well as promoting cultural activities.

UPAVA also continues to support families to maintain their connection with their Ugandan values through holding cultural education activities and events.

Purpose of the Association

The Purpose of the Association is to support members to work together to improve their welfare and wellbeing.

Specific Objectives of the Association

The Specific Objectives of the Association are to:

1. Forum

Provide a forum as a platform for members to collectively address common legitimate interests, encourage social, educational, charitable and other relevant activities that mainly impact their settlement in Australia.

2. Settlement Support

Support or help facilitation of the settlement of Members in Victoria.

3. Preserve Culture

Preserve and promote Ugandan cultural and social values without undermining Australian values.

4. Betterment of Community

Provide a forum for Members to share views for the betterment of the Community.

5. Education

Educate and facilitate the exchange of information and knowledge.

Discover our mission driven approach

To become a thriving and vibrant community that will contribute positively to Victoria and beyond.

To provide a forum and resources for members to build ideas and networks for the benefit of their social, economic and spiritual welfare and well-being.

Caring – We nurture empathy and kindness to strengthen community bonds

Reliable – We court trust in everything that we do

Accessible – We are possible to be approached by all community members

Neutral – We have no personal preference when serving our members

Encouraging – We help people believe in the impossible

Strive – We always try to be better every day