Dreams Blossomed on Dusty Roads
In a time like ours, when the world spins relentlessly and dreams often remain dormant, there emerged a remarkable story—a story of resilience, determination, and unwavering faith. Acire Samuel, once a humble ambulance driver, defied the odds to become Lacor Hospital’s Procurement Officer.
Born on a chilly morning in Labworomor village, Acire’s childhood was marked by adversity. His name, bestowed by his mother, signifies perseverance—a fitting tribute to his early arrival into the world. But his childhood was marked by more than just his name; it was a time of witnessing his father’s cruelty, fueled by alcohol. The family had to flee from the abusive and alcoholic father, seeking refuge in the bush every night.
Despite the odds stacked against him, Acire managed to complete his O’ level education. However, his limited formal education meant that he could only find work as a driver. From 2010 to 2017, he navigated dusty roads, ferrying passengers and goods, all while dreaming of something more. China Railways (CREC-Huuju), Harder Way Holdings, Antioch Church among others—all trusted him behind the wheel.
Acire’s heart yearned for something far greater than driving, but having a large family with overwhelming demands could not allow him. Yet, his commitment to the Voice of Life Church led him to study the word of God, earning a Diploma in Christian ministries from New Life Advanced Bible College, sponsored by Wild Card Missions International.
In 2017, fate intervened. Lacor Hospital, known for its compassionate care and commitment to the community, hired Acire as an ambulance driver. The hospital staff saw potential in him beyond the steering wheel. Mr. Mariano the head of drivers, Mr. Piero Paul the administrator, and Caroline, the human resource manager became his mentors. Their trust and faith rekindled Acire’s long-cherished dream of further education. But there was a hurdle: school fees.
With a family to support, Acire faced a daunting choice. Acire confided in his uncle, a wise and generous man. To Acire’s surprise, his uncle offered to pay for his education. With gratitude in his heart, Acire embarked on a new chapter. He attended A’ level classes through the senior six express program at Gulu Central Adult Learning Center in 2019 where he emerged as the best candidate while still working tirelessly at the hospital. The juggling act was challenging, but Acire’s determination fueled his journey.
The day Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) results were announced, Mega FM radio waves announced his achievement: “Acire Samuel, the best-performing student at Gulu Central Adult Learning Center, with 14 points.”
“Balancing work, family, and studies, I stood amazed. It was a testament to perseverance, divine intervention, and the wonder of God. For real, we celebrated it openly with my family and friends, in reverence to Jehovah Jireh, Jehovah Rapha, and Jehovah Elohim,” Acire recalls.
Acire’s relentless pursuit of knowledge led him to Gulu University. There, he studied Procurement & Supply Chain Management—a field that intrigued him. Annual leave and accumulated off days fueled his pursuit. The hospital gave him official leave without pay on weekends, and he had to use his annual leave and accumulated off days for examinations and studies. It all worked very well, although with a lot of pressure and fatigue.
But life had more surprises in store. When one of the hospital’s procurement officers left unexpectedly, Acire seized the opportunity. He applied for the position, even though it wasn’t advertised and he hadn’t yet graduated from the university. To his delight, he was chosen. The gap left by his predecessor became the bridge to his transformation.
Joy overflowed, and Daniela, the Communications Manager at Corti Foundation, a friend with whom he has shared night shifts, bridging healing and journalism, celebrated his journey. “You deserve this,” she affirmed. “This calls for a celebration with your family, perhaps with some chicken, but the local one, because you have been very committed and faithful at your work,” she added.
“Indeed, it was more—a miraculous promotion, orchestrated by faith,” says Acire.
On May 6, 2024, Acire Samuel stepped into the old boardroom—the same place where he was first welcomed on December 5, 2017, as an ambulance driver. This time, it was different. Mr. Lalobo Francis, the Head of Procurement, and Ms. Giulia Monti, the Finance Controller, greeted him officially. Lalobo took him under his wings and generously trained Acire. His open-heartedness and willingness to help without reservations eased the transition for Acire.
(L-R) Acire, Giulia & Lalobo
From these humble beginnings, Acire’s journey unfolded, weaving hope into the fabric of his life.
Today, Acire Samuel thrives as Lacor Hospital’s Procurement Officer. His colleagues admire his work ethic, integrity, and commitment.
“Just as when I first applied to be a driver, I sought a place where I could fulfill God’s purpose for my life. Now, I have found it—a place where compassion meets healing, regardless of circumstances, race, color, political background, and financial position.”
Acire’s journey reminds us that resilience, combined with opportunity, can turn adversity into triumph.
Acire extends his gratitude to the hospital and Dominique Corti Atim, President of the Corti Foundation, whose love knows no borders.
“I am grateful to the hospital for giving me the chance to be part of ‘the remarkable story.’ They allowed my growth in the profession and instilled trust in me.”
