Board of Directors

Our board of directors is committed to the students, the school and the community of Bomg Ng'ombe.

Joanne McFadden

Founder/Director

joannemcfadden24@gmail.com

Joanne founded Aya Education Fund after a trip to Tanzania in 2013 where she met Charles Shayo, her guide at Mt. Kilimanjaro. After a few months living in Boma Ng'ombe, Joanne realized her non-profit management experience could benefit the students at the local Kengereka School. Now with a growing non-profit, Joanne works with Charles to arrange for payment of school fees and determine long-term needs of the school.

Pam Zajac

Director

Pam has been a supporter of Aya Education Fund since 2015. She believes every child deserves the opportunity to get an education. "Access to a school should be readily available and Aya Education Fund has been helping to make that happen. I can make a difference for children's education with Aya and look forward to being a part of it's growth."

Eloise Pulos

Director

Eloise joined Aya in January 2018. Her connection with Africa is rooted in her travels there and time living in Cameroon." Being a part of Aya is an exciting way to stay connected and support communities where education is never taken for granted."

Charles Shayo

Director,Tanzania

Charles Shayo is a trek guide for Kilimanjaro and Aya's local Tanzanian board member. Charles' passion for his community and dedication to Aya makes this work possible. His involvement on the ground includes everything from organizing and purchasing school supplies, managing payment of exams fees, and keeping Aya connected with the school through photos and stories, and visits with the teachers.

Charles is a pillar of his community. Many neighbours visit with him to seek his support and advice. He welcomes visitors and volunteers, and his family's door is always open for homestays.