Our People
The people behind the place called home. Shayanewako is sustained by people who bring different experiences, knowledge and perspectives to a shared purpose: creating a place of belonging and opportunity for children, young people, women and families experiencing vulnerability.
Our governance and leadership structure brings together Trustees, a Board, Management and a dedicated Team, each carrying distinct responsibilities but united by a common commitment to dignity, care and lasting change. We believe that strong institutions are built not only through compassion and commitment, but also through responsible leadership, sound governance, accountability and a shared sense of purpose.
Our Founder
Dr Rejoice Nharaunda | Founder, Shayanewako
Shayanewako began with a deeply personal response to a family crisis that revealed the urgent need for safe, nurturing care for children experiencing vulnerability. What began as an act of compassion gradually grew into a wider commitment to supporting children, young people, women and families through some of life's most difficult circumstances.
For Dr Rejoice Nharaunda, the vision has always extended beyond providing shelter. It is about creating a place where people feel safe, valued and supported, while opening pathways to education, stability, dignity and independence. This vision is deeply rooted in Ubuntu and in the meaning carried by the name Shayanewako, inherited from her father. It reflects the belief that, through every season of life, people need relationships of care, solidarity and belonging.
As Shayanewako continues to grow, Dr Nharaunda remains committed to strengthening its institutional foundations and ensuring that its founding values are carried forward. Central to her vision is the conviction that Shayanewako must endure beyond its founder, remaining true to its purpose while growing into an institution capable of serving generations to come.
Her leadership is guided by three enduring questions: Where have we come from? What must we carry forward? And what must the next generation inherit?
Our Trustees
Shayanewako's Trustees carry the responsibility of safeguarding the organisation's founding vision, values and long-term interests. Their stewardship is grounded in a commitment to preserving the spirit in which Shayanewako was established, while supporting its continued growth and development as an enduring institution.
Guided by Ubuntu, the Trustees help protect the organisation's identity, integrity and commitment to human dignity, belonging and opportunity. At the heart of their responsibility is the belief that Shayanewako must remain true to its purpose while building the institutional strength and continuity needed to serve future generations.
The Trustees' stewardship is guided by three fundamental questions: Are we remaining true to the purpose for which Shayanewako was established? What must we protect and preserve as the organisation grows and evolves? And are we building an institution that will endure beyond our generation?
Our Board
Shayanewako's Board provides strategic leadership and oversight, helping ensure that the organisation remains accountable, effective and responsive to the needs of the people and communities it serves. Drawing on diverse professional experience, knowledge and perspectives, the Board guides organisational strategy, strengthens governance and supports responsible stewardship of resources.
Its responsibility includes promoting sound decision-making, safeguarding, institutional accountability and the development of systems and partnerships that support long-term sustainability. The Board is united by a shared commitment to building an organisation that remains deeply human in its care, grounded in its African identity and purposeful in creating lasting opportunities for those it serves.
Three questions guide the Board's responsibility: Are we making the right decisions for the people and communities we exist to serve? Are we governing with integrity, accountability and responsible stewardship of the resources entrusted to us? And are we building an organisation that is strong, sustainable and capable of delivering lasting impact?
Our Management
Shayanewako's Management is responsible for translating the organisation's vision and strategic priorities into meaningful action. Working under the direction of the Board, Management provides leadership across programmes, operations, partnerships and institutional development, ensuring that resources are used responsibly and that the organisation remains focused on its purpose.
Management also plays an important role in strengthening organisational systems, supporting staff, promoting accountability and building the institutional capacity necessary for sustainable growth. At the centre of this responsibility is a commitment to ensuring that Shayanewako's values are reflected not only in what the organisation aspires to achieve, but in how it works every day.
Management's leadership is guided by three practical questions: Are we translating our vision and commitments into meaningful action? Are we using our people, resources and partnerships responsibly to deliver the best possible outcomes? And what are we learning, and what must we do differently to strengthen our work?
Our Team
Behind Shayanewako's work is a dedicated team of caregivers, programme staff, administrative personnel and individuals providing specialised support. They are the people who turn our commitment to dignity, belonging and opportunity into everyday experience. Through their care, consistency, professionalism and compassion, they help create safe and supportive environments where children, young people, women and families can begin to rebuild their lives.
We recognise that meaningful change often happens through ordinary acts of care: a listening ear, encouragement during a difficult moment, support with education, or simply the reassurance that someone is present and willing to walk alongside another person.
Because the safety and privacy of those entrusted to our care are paramount, we do not publicly identify all staff or disclose operational arrangements that could compromise the security of our programmes. We honour the contribution of every member of our team and recognise that no single individual carries this responsibility alone.
Rooted in Ubuntu, we believe that every contribution matters, every person has value and the strength of Shayanewako lies in the collective commitment of those who serve.
Our Shared Commitment
Across our Trustees, Board, Management and Team, we are united by a responsibility that extends beyond the work of today. We are building an organisation that honours its beginnings, remains accountable to the people it serves and continues to create opportunities for generations to come.
