Maggie Rawlins has been known to balance her life as a nurse and as a fashion model with an effortlessness that feels both real and honest. But when she chose to spend the start of the year in Uganda alongside OneWorld Health, her feed wasn’t just about breezy style—it was a glimpse into a hands-on mission far from the runways. She traded in the usual holiday flurry for the reality of the Masindi Kitara Medical Center, underscoring her commitment to a global cause that champions community-based healthcare.
True to her background, Maggie approached the visit with empathy. OneWorld Health has built a reputation for establishing long-term medical infrastructure in areas that need it most. For Maggie, who first crossed paths with the organization in her nursing school days, the return to Uganda was like revisiting an ever-evolving project that continues to challenge and inspire. Below, she shares her thoughts on why local-driven care matters, how we can all get involved, and the personal transformation that comes with giving back.
What initially drew you to get involved with One World Health and its mission in Uganda?
Maggie: I was introduced to OWH while I was still in nursing school, and the first trip I ever took with them was actually my first time leaving the country almost 10 years ago. I was drawn to the organization initially because of their unique approach to mission work and how they partner with communities to bring permanent and sustainable healthcare to the chronically underserved. Rather than a short-term approach, their solution is long term.
One World Health emphasizes sustainable, locally driven care. How did you see that philosophy in action during your visit?
Maggie: 99% of the staff at the Masindi Katara Medical Center were local to Uganda. The hospital runs multiple facilities and provides some of the best patient care in the country. I also think the fact the hospitals are locally staffed brings more pride to their community and to the hospital.
In what ways did working closely with local medical staff reshape your perspective on global healthcare challenges?
Maggie: Working closely with local medical staff highlights the stark resource disparities in global healthcare and the need for adaptable community driven solutions. The resilience of the staff and of the Ugandan people is something that I have so much respect for, especially in light of the healthcare challenges that they face from day to day.
You mentioned feeling a sense of responsibility to help—what advice would you give to people who also feel that desire, but don’t know where or how to start?
Maggie: I think there is an innate desire in all of us to help and give back and I think we as humans were built for community. My advice is to find an organization that you are passionate about in your community and carve out any bit of time that you can spare to get involved. It’s never easy, and we all have very busy lives – but once you feel the reward of working toward something that truly feels impactful you can then realize just how fulfilling this can be.”
How do you hope your experiences in Uganda might inspire others to take action—whether in healthcare or in any area where they can make a difference?
Maggie: I definitely do not think you have to be involved in the medical field to give back with this particular organization. I know it sounds cliché, but I promise doing something for someone other than yourself will truly cure something in you. Especially in this day and age where we’re all focused on ourselves and have an individualistic mindset which I do not think is healthy. I don’t think we were built for that. There is a quote by Dr. Maia Angelou that has stuck with me, ‘I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.’
Maggie’s journey in Uganda serves as a reminder that modeling is only one facet of her life. She has stitched purpose into her narrative, proving that anyone, anywhere, has the potential to create a ripple of change. Sometimes, the most compelling work happens when you step away from your comfort zone and immerse yourself in a mission that’s bigger than yourself.
