Turn Right at the Dancing Cow

In one of the darkest, most hurting, and often overlooked corners of the world, one woman is showing a way out of misery, poverty, and pain. Holding up a beacon of light, Maggie Josiah offers an all-too-rare ray of hope to Ugandans grasping tenuously at the subsistence level. Carrying her own scars, Maggie knows suffering but also knows, regardless of one’s past or current circumstances, anyone can transform his or her life. What she and her students do every day bears brave testament to her unwavering belief in the power we each hold. Through rough a chance encounter, John Shimer learned of Maggie’s struggles, recovery, and fierce determination to help others. With her vision always before her, after visits to Africa and mentoring in fund-raising from John, Maggie made her dream a reality. She established African Hospitality Institute, or AHI, in Uganda to teach young people the skills needed to succeed in the hospitality industry. Continuing his support and remaining in touch with Maggie, John finally visited AHI. Turn Right at the Dancing Cow records John’s two-week visit to AHI, looking back at how it came about as well as revealing incredible transformations—in Maggie, the students, the country, and even himself. With sensitivity, insight, and a sharp eye, John introduces us to the people of Uganda, especially the students at AHI who are so intent on succeeding that most secure positions in the hospitality industry even before graduation, this in a country with 30 percent unemployment.