Mwangala Mulando is a change-maker and a woman of action who is committed to social justice. She is a Mother, a Mentor, a Friend, as well as a member of the Rotary Club. She has an academic background in Environmental Health. She currently works with SNV as a Behavior Change and Communication Advisor, where she works with issues concerning girls – including Menstrual Health Management and Sanitation.

Mr. Mubemba is currently the Provincial Coordinator for the US Peace Corps in the Northern Province. He began his long coordination with Bakashana Basambilile in 2008, when he served as a Peace Corps Language trainer, and taught Co-founder and ED Claire Albrecht and CFO Justin Hostetter how to speak IciBemba. Since that time, Mr. Mubemba has used his training and experience as a professional musician and facilitator to empower and enliven both the girls on our program, and our staff. Mr. Mubemba is often found behind the microphone, lifting up the collective through traditional folk songs, and words of inspiration and affirmation. He lives in Kasama with his wife and children, and is a frequent and welcomed presence at the Bakashana Offices.

Allan Mwango is a man of many talents. He has been a full-time farmer for several decades, and during this time he has shared his expertise with many farmers through facilitating workshops, hosting field days, and performing on-site consultations. He has worked alongside and taught several generations of Peace Corps Volunteers near Mumano Lupando, where he lives. He was also the chairperson of Radio Mano, the most widely listened-to station in the Northern Province. He is currently the Managing Director of The Bush Barrow Company, a US-Zambian collaboration which, in coordination with local farmers, develops and manufactures appropriate technologies. Mr. Mwango has a heart and focus of assisting those around him, and he serves as a valued advisor both practically and culturally.

Mrs. Nsofu is a registered nurse with a passion for Women’s Health. She has been serving her community by providing health services for over 25 years. She is an expert in many fields within the nursing profession, including family planning, infant care, and counselling and care for those living with HIV/AIDs. She serves as a trusted advisor, teacher, and mentor for all Bakashana programs involving health – including the Health Center, the empowerment programs, and our health outreach. Her expertise and qualifications in the health field provide invaluable insight and guidance to our organization.

Lubona has worked with education in the Northern Province for the last seven years. She has many professional and personal pursuits that keep her very busy. As a graduate Laura Girls Secondary School (of one of the schools that we work most closely with), she can relate with the girls of our program in many ways. As an entrepreneur and fashionista, the girls look up to her as a mentor and role model. Her confidence, joyful spirit, and positive attitude bring so much to the Bakashana team.

Ivy Briget Kapole is the Head Teacher of Musa Secondary School, and has worked with the Zambian Ministry of Education for over 35 years. As a mother and “born teacher”, her passion for, and commitment to, young women’s education have served as foundations for her career and life. While juggling school administration, Mrs. Kapole is also serving as the Provincial Coordinator for the Solon School Construction Initiative, which has constructed more than 40 schools in Northern Province alone. She has worked with Bakashana for many years, and serves as trusted and valued advisor for all things cultural and educational.

Christopher Chileshe is the Regional School Coordinator for a UK NGO called PEAS (Promoting Equality in African Schools). After working with the Zambian Ministry of Education for over 35 years, Mr. Chileshe moved to PEAS – where he coordinated the construction and administration of the first PEAS school in the Northern Province. Mr. Chileshe is also a co-founder of Bakashana Basambilile, and he plays an essential role in the formation and vision of this organization. His passion for education, his humble beginnings, and his role as a male ally for women in a male-dominated society bring balance and perspective to our program. Mr. Chileshe holds a Masters in Human Resource, a BA in education, and a teacher’s certificate. He has been sought out by various development organizations including the Peace Corps and Volunteer Services Organization (VSO) to develop training models for volunteers in Zambia and Cambodia. Mr. Chileshe carries a strong presence in the Kasama community, and the Bakashana Organization.

Juliet has over 8 years experience working in both local and international non-profit organizations. She holds a degree in Community Development. She is a mother of two and her growing family keep her busy and full of love. Her passion for social service and human interaction have motivated her to work closely with Bakashana. She is passionate about female emowerment and entrepreneurship and hopes to bring her flexibility and integrity to helping more and more young women in Kasama pursue their future of their choice.