Giving Back: Upright Africa

By Darren Humphreys

Travel Sommelier is passionate about giving back and providing support to those in need. I am proud to serve on the board of Upright Africa, an organization that is committed to making a positive impact on one of the world’s most compromised countries.

My friend John Woods, an acclaimed doctor specializing in Orthopedic Spine Surgery, founded Upright Africa in 2012. After witnessing the challenges the Democratic Republic of Congo faced while there on a medical mission his life's path changed.
 
John now lives in the DRC full-time serving local communities, funding and performing life-changing surgeries—more than 11,000 to date! He is increasing awareness, introducing modern technology, and training medical professionals in this surgical specialty.  

Upright Africa’s goal is to enhance the lives of the people of the DRC by helping to strengthen and rebuild the infrastructure in hospitals, the education system, orphanages, and agriculture.
 
Africa is best helped when it can help itself.