Our Team has Expanded!
I Am, We Are (IAWA) envisions a world where all young people are socially engaged, globally aware, and economically free. Thanks to our donors and supporters, IAWA is expanding, and we are thrilled to introduce you to our newest Nia* Circle community members.
IAWA was inspired in 2012 when Founder and Chief Executive of Hope, Meisha Lerato, served as a Peace Corps Response Volunteer in South Africa. Seven years later, IAWA has evolved from a one-person-led organization to a global community, impacting many young people’s lives along the way! The Nia Circle manages our day-to-day operations, and our newest members include youth development experts, trainers, social workers, and communications professionals. These new members are supporting our recently launched Morafe Leadership Development Program and helping us share the inspiring stories of the young people participating in the program.
These fresh faces strengthen the Nia Circle and will support our continued growth. We’re excited to introduce:
Mmabatho Seremane who joined the team as a Program Manager – South Africa
“I joined IAWA to unleash the potential that lies within young people, and put the cool back in learning”.
Sharon J. Nichol who has joined the team as a Program Manager – United States
“I began following IAWA’s work in 2019 and was excited to plug in with the organization before the Covid-19 pandemic hit. When the Youth Program Manager role came into being, I saw it as a perfect opportunity to blend my passion for the African diaspora and experience in youth leadership development. So far, it has been a privilege to work with an organization that lives out its values in every area — from programs for IAWA’s youth ambassadors to the investment in staff and volunteers. This integrity already makes IAWA a leader in the space it inhabits and I’m grateful to be partnered with such an organization”.
Lebogang Maribe who has joined the team as Wellbeing Advisor – South Africa
“I joined the organization because of the mission and the purpose it intends to fulfill in the lives of the ambassadors, I feel it is very important for young people to have someone who cares enough to support and guide their path in this journey called LIFE."
Damara Nesmith who has joined the team as Wellbeing Advisor – United States
IAWA gives young people access to the resources which can help them to build confidence and provides a gateway to personality development. I joined the organiz ation because I want to contribute to the lives of young people to empower them in improving their quality of life.
Omphile "Pix" Rapoo who has joined our team as a Visual Storyteller/Technical Coordinator – South Africa
“I joined or was interested in joining the organization because I would love to be a beacon of hope within my community and abroad. I believe that with the correct mind-set and values, any child can become spectacular and IAWA offers that and more for the African child. I'm excited, energized and anxious for what's to come next”.
Mattison Yogi Williams who has joined the team as our new Digital Coordinator – United States
“The mission and ethos of IAWA spoke to the very core of me. I'm blessed for the opportunity to work with this organization and I'm excited to see how I Am, We Are impacts the youth worldwide. Let's Do This!”
Thandi Davis who has joined the team as our new Digital Coordinator – South Africa
“This is an exciting time to be part of a team helping young people. I look forward to learning more and providing work that will significantly benefit the team and the youth”.
Wendy Ngcobo who has joined the team as our Communication Specialist – South Africa
“I am so excited to be working towards making a meaningful contribution towards enriching the lives of young people- our future leaders. My personal hopes for the future of IAWA are to uplift and support our community by telling their stories.”
Thapelo Mqehe has joined the team as our Impact Assessment Coordinator – South Africa
“I am flawed yet content.”
You can learn more about our team by reading their bios on our website.
* Nia means purpose in Swahili.
