In our quest to develop and implement sustainable programs in LRA affected areas, we met Lauren and Conor Evans, two like-minded business people, TRI donors, and builders who became determined to address some of the systemic needs plaguing the development of the economy in northern Uganda. Lauren and Conor, along with their team at The 31 Lengths Campaign, believe the ideals and structure of business can be catalysts to improve northern Uganda – and the world, for that matter.

Lauren and Conor Evans discussing the Lacor Entrepreneurship Center

Invisible Children first partnered with the Evans in 2011 with the intention of constructing a library at St. Mary’s College Lacor secondary school, but that idea grew into so much more. Last March marked the groundbreaking ceremony of the Lacor Entrepreneurship Center at St. Mary’s, which implements five key program elements to foster entrepreneurial activity and business skills among the over 700 students at the center.

Head Teacher, Okumu Anna, talking about the Entrepreneurship Center

The mission of The 31 Lengths Campaign and the Lacor Entrepreneurship Center is to “empower students’ potential by connecting resources for business education, resulting in economic development to overcome strife and reinforce human dignity.” The mission will be supported by program elements designed by MBA students that include: onsite support staff, a speakers series with strategic partners, an MBA summer associate residency, and annual business plan competitions, amongst others.
At the groundbreaking ceremony, the District Vice Chairman noted that there is an abundance of job seekers, but a deprivation of job creators. The Lacor Entrepreneurship Center approaches this issue by encouraging creative thought for solutions to existing problems and equipping students with basic business skills to spur economic activity in the region. Okumu Anna, the head teacher at St. Mary’s College Lacor secondary school, remarked on the importance of the center, saying: “Entrepreneurship should be more practical. What you learn in theory must be applied.” And that is exactly what students will be doing. Practical impact of the center will first be measured by the quantity of complete business plans created, but overtime will be assessed by quality and implementation. To learn more or to get involved, visit www.the31lengthscampaign.com.