Education opened doors I never imagined possible.
Hello. My name is Dr. Jackson Ivan Isiko and my story begins in Jinja, Uganda, a small town on the shores of Lake Victoria.
Life there was humble and often difficult, but I always dreamed of something more. The opportunity to go to school changed the course of my life forever.
Education opened doors I never imagined possible. It took me from a simple classroom in rural Uganda to a doctorate in Organizational Leadership and Technology from the University of Phoenix, and today I am proud to be a United States citizen living in Herriman, Utah with my wife, Stephanie, and our three wonderful children.
Without education, none of that would have been possible.
Now, alongside my work as a network engineer, I serve as an adjunct professor at Ensign College, an Assistant Scoutmaster for Troop 820, and a passionate Director of Ephraim Hope Mission.
My greatest joy comes from helping others find the same opportunities that once changed my own life.
A Conversation That Sparked a Movement
Five years ago, I met Gary Heaton at a networking event. He told me he was raising money to feed children in Uganda. I smiled and said,
“There is plenty of food in Uganda. What our children really need is education.”
That simple conversation planted a seed — and together, we decided to grow something lasting. With the help of our dedicated colleague Moses Gimeyi, who volunteered full-time to identify and support children in need, Ephraim Hope Mission was born.
In January 2021, we sent our first 30 children to school. Today, we support more than 100 students, from grade school to college preparatory programs such as BYU Pathway. Each child represents a story of hope, faith, and transformation.
A Journey Back Home
When Gary and I visited Uganda in 2023, we witnessed firsthand the joy of the families we serve. Parents brought humble gifts — eggs, peanuts, avocados, even live chickens — as tokens of gratitude. One young mother handed Gary her newborn and said,
“His name will be Gary.”
It was a sacred moment, a reminder that this work is not only about education but about love, dignity, and connection.
From Humble Beginnings to Hope
Dr. Jackson Ivan Isiko reflects on his childhood visits to his maternal grandfather’s home—a once–significant village chief’s residence now falling into disrepair.
He recounts memories of his grandmother’s grass-thatched kitchen, sleeping in the dark house under rough back-cloth blankets, and the deep personal history tied to the place, including his mother’s passing from HIV/AIDS in the same home.
Why We Continue
Education changes lives. It changed mine. And it continues to change the lives of children who now wake each morning with hope for their future.
It costs only $21.75 per month to send one child to school — covering tuition, supplies, and uniforms. Every board member serves as a volunteer, so 100% of donations go directly to the children.
Together, we can open doors for a new generation — children who will one day lift their families and communities just as education lifted me.
