
Meet the team
Introducing the people spread around the globe that make positive change possible
Meet the leaders behind Pestalozzi International
At Pestalozzi International, we are driven by a passionate team of dedicated professionals and volunteers who work tirelessly to empower the next generation of global changemakers. Panning across the UK, USA, Switzerland, Zambia, India, and Nepal, our board members and staff bring a wealth of experience, expertise, and commitment to empowering the next generation of global changemakers.
- Our patrons - His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama- Patron - We are deeply honoured for his support for our "Head, Heart, and Hands" approach, preparing each child to be a responsible global citizen. 
 - HRH The Duke of Gloucester- Patron - We are very grateful for the unwavering support of HRH The Duke of Gloucester, who has been our patron for an impressive five decades. 
 - Sir Richard Butler- Honorary President - Sir Richard Butler and Lady Butler co-founded Pestalozzi International with the vision of using education to uplift marginalized children. 
 
- Team UK - Kenneth Greatbatch- Board Chair - With 25+ years as a senior executive, he brings global expertise in guiding strategy, ensuring lasting impact for Pestalozzi International. 
 - Catherine Stevens- Board Member - With strategic expertise in education and philanthropy, she ensures initiatives align with our mission to help disadvantaged children. 
 - Alain Rizk- Board Member - An experienced senior corporate & investment banker, he now focuses on supporting social enterprises and is a Governor at Laureate Academy. 
 - James Haughton- CEO - Joining in 2020 with a wealth of experience of the charity sector, he has expanded programmes and improved governance and partnerships. 
 - Eddie West-Burnham- Chief Operations Officer - Former CEO of Pestalozzi Intern. Foundation, experienced Chief Executive and consultant with a diverse background in health and education. 
 - Dr. Joanna Nair- Director of Education - With a PhD in international development, she is ensuring since 1996 that our programmes are culturally relevant for children. 
 - Suzanne Davis- Head of Philanthropy - With her extensive marketing expertise and a proven track record in building partnerships, she drives financial support for our programmes. 
 - Mags Alexander- Alumni and Outcomes Manager - After 10 years in the Civil Service, she changed paths to work with young people with special needs before joining Pestalozzi in 2003. 
 - Emma Peadon- Senior Fundraising Executive - A passionate fundraising professional, she joined Pestalozzi in 2023, bringing over four years of experience in events and donor relations. 
 - Donna Rose- Marketing Lead - With a background in primary education and digital resource development, she ensures that learning materials are engaging and effective. 
 - Sonia Omar- Director of Impact - With over 20 years in human rights and international development, Sonia leads on our global impact, driving growth and inspiring innovation. 
 - Georgia Baum- Digital Marketing Lead - With skills in digital design and content creation, she crafts compelling content to champion young people’s voices. 
 - Rose Wood- Fundraising Manager - With 9+ years fundraising experience specialising in developing creative campaigns, strategic partnerships, and enhancing donor engagement. 
 
- Team Switzerland - Peter Stocker- Board Chair - Experienced tax and estate lawyer. Member of various boards of directors and foundation boards. Dedicated philanthropy consultant. 
 - Patric Klees- Board Member - A global investor with 20+ years experience, he inspires leaders with creative solutions to transform their businesses and create value. 
 - Clémence Delmas- Fundraising Manager Switzerland - She has lived in Niger and Senegal for three years and brings long-standing experience in non-profits (incl. fundraising) and translation. 
 
- Team USA - Elizabeth Beim- President - She is an international relations graduate from LSE with diverse management experience in various NGOs. 
 - Sir Richard Butler- Board Member - He became a social entrepreneur after a distinguished career in international banking with First Boston Corporation & Blyth, Eastman Dilon. 
 - Anthony Dub- Board Member - Chairman of Indigo Capital, he previously spent 26 years at Credit Suisse First Boston, leading various finance practices. 
 - David Langstaff- Board Member - A global business leader with extensive CEO experience, he serves as EVP, Leadership at the Aspen Institute. 
 - Sandra Weiksner- Board Member - Sandra, a retired law firm partner, is passionate about supporting scholarships for disadvantaged girls' secondary education in rural Africa 
 - Amy Hunter- Board Member - Advising companies on climate & sustainability programs, she inspires strengths to meet regulatory standards & capitalize on opportunities. 
 
- Team Zambia - Brian Sitamulaho- Board Chair - With 18+ years as Associate Director at Deloitte Africa, he guides in governance and leadership. 
 - Muyunda Katundu- Board Member - Chartered Accountant, project manager with 20+ years in audit, compliance, & finance. Now Learning Hub Manager at USAID Zambia MEL Platform. 
 - Dr. Bamidele Akinbo- Head of School Pestalozzi Education Centre - International educator with 20+ years of teaching & leadership, empowering students to excel, fostering creativity and global mindfulness. 
 - Honest Mutesha- Programme Manager - With 10+ years experience in designing and implementing impactful programmes, he drives sustainable outcomes and strategic growth. 
 - Evans Kabamba- Curriculum Manager - Experienced educator with 15+ years in curriculum design, program development, and fostering innovative, student-centered learning. 
 - Anastasia Kabwe- Primary Coordinator - Primary educator with 10+ years' experience. Skilled in curriculum development, program management, and educational excellence. 
 - Kelly Mzyopa- ECZ Coordinator - Educator & administrator with 18+ years’ experience, passionate about inclusive learning, empowerment, dignity, and lifelong growth. 
 - Mwinji Nachembe- Outreach Officer - Social worker and program coordinator with 10 years' experience in social care, youth, program development, and community support. 
 - Christabel Hankombo- Ibex Hill Campus Coordinator - 6+ years experience as leader of parenting staff, she ensures the campus provides a supportive, home-like environment for over 200 learners. 
 - Natalie Simpamba- Career Guidance Counselor - Educational professional with a psychology background, passionate about global development and committed to equity and access in education. 
 - Lucy Thompson-Siwale- Media Coordinator - As a highly experienced communications specialist, she crafts communication strategies to drive engagement and support organizational goals. 
 - Isaac Sakala- People & Culture Manager - Experienced Manager with 13+ years in HR and leadership, fostering inclusive workplaces aligned with Pestalozzi’s values and vision. 
 - Chola Chomba- Human Ressources PEC - HR professional with 8+ years’ experience also in the education sector. Skilled in HR systems, talent identification, and adaptability. 
 - Don MacDonald- Zambian Board Member - A successful businessman, Don has also fostered 27 street kids at his home in Zambia-known by local people as “Old MacDonald’s Farm”. 
 
- Team India - Yashpal Kapoor- Board Chair - President and Founder of Io Global Services, he is a Pestalozzi alumnus and an Imperial College graduate. 
 - Cheme Palden- Director - Born in India to parents who fled from Tibet, she studied Osteopathy, English, and Psychology before earning a Bachelor’s in Education. 
 - Thsespal Kundan- Board Member - A graduate of The University of Cambridge, he has 40+ years in education and is currently Director of the Moravian Institute. 
 - Usha Tiru- Board Member - She graduated in 2021 from the Indian village with a degree in Fashion Technology & is now a Sales Trainee at World Fashion Exchange. 
 - Naveen Sharma- Board Member - He received a scholarship for Computer Science and supported our Indian students in Math and Science. 
 - Yeshi Khampa- Board Member - She holds a BA in German language, literature & cultural studies; now she works at Amazon. 
 - Anudev Jayara- Board Member - Alumnus with a Computer Science Engineering degree, former administrator at Pestalozzi India, now self-employed leveraging his expertise. 
 - Dakshina Kaur- Board Member - Alumna of Pestalozzi India, FDDI Kolkata graduate with 7 years in footwear design, now freelancing with a creativity and innovation focus. 
 - Shelja Thakur- Programme Development Officer / Board Secretary - Pestalozzi alumna and our Alumni Coordinator in India. She studies development to help drive positive change in her country. 
 
- Team Nepal - Ajay Shrestha- Board Chair - An alumnus of our Indian Campus, he became Board Chair at Pestalozzi Nepal and serves on the alumni committee. 
 - Shree Shankar- Board Adviser - As a social worker and former Director of SOS Children's Villages Nepal, his extensive expertise is invaluable to us. 
 - Reena Shakya- Assistant Director - Working at PCEC Pokhara since 2021, Reena oversees social care, health, education, behaviour, workshops, and extra-curricular activities. 
 - Kiran Thami- Director - With a BBA from Tribhuvan University, Kiran has experience of working in non-profits, is skilled in accounting, and business development. 
 - Sabita Bhandari- Assistant Director - PI Alumna Sabita graduated in 2016 (B.Com) and 2021 (MBS). Working at the Nepalese Village since 2016, she is now Assistant Director. 
 
- International Alumni Committee - Shelja Thakur- Member - Pestalozzi alumna and our Alumni Coordinator in India. She studies development to help drive positive change in her country. 
 - Joseph Kumwenda- Member - Joseph is an Edulution Field Coordinator, co-founded Lumezi FM, and supports Pestalozzi Zambia Alumni. He is studying Development Studies. 
 - Tenzin Tsepak- Member - With degrees in English and Education, and a Master’s in English, Tsepak teaches at the Dalai Lama Institute for Higher Education. 
 - Sabita Bhandari- Member - Alumna Sabita graduated in 2016 (B.Com) and 2021 (MBS). Working at the Nepalese Village since 2016, she is now Assistant Director. 
 - Sunil Gautam- Member - Pestalozzi alum, now a Software Engineer in Sydney; active alumnus aiming to create lasting impact for disadvantaged children. 
 - Prisca Mulongo- Member - Proud Pestalozzi alumna, nurse, midwife, and clinical instructor. Awarded 2021 Gold Impact Award. Committed to supporting others. 
 - Peeraya Utsajit- Member - A Mahidol University BA and PhD graduate, she teaches at Mahidol University. A dedicated volunteer, she serves on the Thai Pestalozzi board. 
 - Afonso M. Fernando- Member - Selected from Mayukwayukwa Refugee camp, Afonso is a Math Coach for Edulution and founder of Zam-Ango Records. 
 - Ajay Shrestha- Member - An alumnus of our Indian Campus, he became Board Chair at Pestalozzi Nepal and serves on the alumni committee. 
 - Chok Tsering- Member - With a master of the LSE he continues to support Pestalozzi’s work, believing it empowers young people to make a positive impact. 
 - Lobsang Dolma- Member - She is motivated to support students from backgrounds like hers, believing that this helps change lives and communities for the better. 
 - Mulenga Mwamba- Member - After her studies, she coaches at Edulution and works with SkillsHub to ensure the success of each child with a Pestalozzi scholarship. 
 - Pravin Kamble- Member - He believes education drives dreams. In 2021, he founded 'Oneureka Foundation' to support talented, underprivileged students in India. 
 - Astridah Nambela- Member - She values continuing Pestalozzi's work, supporting its vision of life-changing education and empowering alumni to create global change. 
 - Katie Pawara Chantar- Member - As a Thai Pestalozzi Foundation member, she aims to positively impact students' lives, just as Pestalozzi International did for her. 
 - Vivien Musonda- Member - A BBA grad from the University of Zambia, she aims to support Pestalozzi through event organizing, mentoring, and sharing her journey. 
 
 - His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama- Patron - We are deeply honoured for his support for our "Head, Heart, and Hands" approach, preparing each child to be a responsible global citizen. 
 - HRH The Duke of Gloucester- Patron - We are very grateful for the unwavering support of HRH The Duke of Gloucester, who has been our patron for an impressive five decades. 
 - Sir Richard Butler- Honorary President - Sir Richard Butler and Lady Butler co-founded Pestalozzi International with the vision of using education to uplift marginalized children. 
 
 - Kenneth Greatbatch- Board Chair - With 25+ years as a senior executive, he brings global expertise in guiding strategy, ensuring lasting impact for Pestalozzi International. 
 - Catherine Stevens- Board Member - With strategic expertise in education and philanthropy, she ensures initiatives align with our mission to help disadvantaged children. 
 - Alain Rizk- Board Member - An experienced senior corporate & investment banker, he now focuses on supporting social enterprises and is a Governor at Laureate Academy. 
 - James Haughton- CEO - Joining in 2020 with a wealth of experience of the charity sector, he has expanded programmes and improved governance and partnerships. 
 - Eddie West-Burnham- Chief Operations Officer - Former CEO of Pestalozzi Intern. Foundation, experienced Chief Executive and consultant with a diverse background in health and education. 
 - Dr. Joanna Nair- Director of Education - With a PhD in international development, she is ensuring since 1996 that our programmes are culturally relevant for children. 
 - Suzanne Davis- Head of Philanthropy - With her extensive marketing expertise and a proven track record in building partnerships, she drives financial support for our programmes. 
 - Mags Alexander- Alumni and Outcomes Manager - After 10 years in the Civil Service, she changed paths to work with young people with special needs before joining Pestalozzi in 2003. 
 - Emma Peadon- Senior Fundraising Executive - A passionate fundraising professional, she joined Pestalozzi in 2023, bringing over four years of experience in events and donor relations. 
 - Donna Rose- Marketing Lead - With a background in primary education and digital resource development, she ensures that learning materials are engaging and effective. 
 - Sonia Omar- Director of Impact - With over 20 years in human rights and international development, Sonia leads on our global impact, driving growth and inspiring innovation. 
 - Georgia Baum- Digital Marketing Lead - With skills in digital design and content creation, she crafts compelling content to champion young people’s voices. 
 - Rose Wood- Fundraising Manager - With 9+ years fundraising experience specialising in developing creative campaigns, strategic partnerships, and enhancing donor engagement. 
 
 - Peter Stocker- Board Chair - Experienced tax and estate lawyer. Member of various boards of directors and foundation boards. Dedicated philanthropy consultant. 
 - Patric Klees- Board Member - A global investor with 20+ years experience, he inspires leaders with creative solutions to transform their businesses and create value. 
 - Clémence Delmas- Fundraising Manager Switzerland - She has lived in Niger and Senegal for three years and brings long-standing experience in non-profits (incl. fundraising) and translation. 
 
 - Elizabeth Beim- President - She is an international relations graduate from LSE with diverse management experience in various NGOs. 
 - Sir Richard Butler- Board Member - He became a social entrepreneur after a distinguished career in international banking with First Boston Corporation & Blyth, Eastman Dilon. 
 - Anthony Dub- Board Member - Chairman of Indigo Capital, he previously spent 26 years at Credit Suisse First Boston, leading various finance practices. 
 - David Langstaff- Board Member - A global business leader with extensive CEO experience, he serves as EVP, Leadership at the Aspen Institute. 
 - Sandra Weiksner- Board Member - Sandra, a retired law firm partner, is passionate about supporting scholarships for disadvantaged girls' secondary education in rural Africa 
 - Amy Hunter- Board Member - Advising companies on climate & sustainability programs, she inspires strengths to meet regulatory standards & capitalize on opportunities. 
 
 - Brian Sitamulaho- Board Chair - With 18+ years as Associate Director at Deloitte Africa, he guides in governance and leadership. 
 - Muyunda Katundu- Board Member - Chartered Accountant, project manager with 20+ years in audit, compliance, & finance. Now Learning Hub Manager at USAID Zambia MEL Platform. 
 - Dr. Bamidele Akinbo- Head of School Pestalozzi Education Centre - International educator with 20+ years of teaching & leadership, empowering students to excel, fostering creativity and global mindfulness. 
 - Honest Mutesha- Programme Manager - With 10+ years experience in designing and implementing impactful programmes, he drives sustainable outcomes and strategic growth. 
 - Evans Kabamba- Curriculum Manager - Experienced educator with 15+ years in curriculum design, program development, and fostering innovative, student-centered learning. 
 - Anastasia Kabwe- Primary Coordinator - Primary educator with 10+ years' experience. Skilled in curriculum development, program management, and educational excellence. 
 - Kelly Mzyopa- ECZ Coordinator - Educator & administrator with 18+ years’ experience, passionate about inclusive learning, empowerment, dignity, and lifelong growth. 
 - Mwinji Nachembe- Outreach Officer - Social worker and program coordinator with 10 years' experience in social care, youth, program development, and community support. 
 - Christabel Hankombo- Ibex Hill Campus Coordinator - 6+ years experience as leader of parenting staff, she ensures the campus provides a supportive, home-like environment for over 200 learners. 
 - Natalie Simpamba- Career Guidance Counselor - Educational professional with a psychology background, passionate about global development and committed to equity and access in education. 
 - Lucy Thompson-Siwale- Media Coordinator - As a highly experienced communications specialist, she crafts communication strategies to drive engagement and support organizational goals. 
 - Isaac Sakala- People & Culture Manager - Experienced Manager with 13+ years in HR and leadership, fostering inclusive workplaces aligned with Pestalozzi’s values and vision. 
 - Chola Chomba- Human Ressources PEC - HR professional with 8+ years’ experience also in the education sector. Skilled in HR systems, talent identification, and adaptability. 
 - Don MacDonald- Zambian Board Member - A successful businessman, Don has also fostered 27 street kids at his home in Zambia-known by local people as “Old MacDonald’s Farm”. 
 
 - Yashpal Kapoor- Board Chair - President and Founder of Io Global Services, he is a Pestalozzi alumnus and an Imperial College graduate. 
 - Cheme Palden- Director - Born in India to parents who fled from Tibet, she studied Osteopathy, English, and Psychology before earning a Bachelor’s in Education. 
 - Thsespal Kundan- Board Member - A graduate of The University of Cambridge, he has 40+ years in education and is currently Director of the Moravian Institute. 
 - Usha Tiru- Board Member - She graduated in 2021 from the Indian village with a degree in Fashion Technology & is now a Sales Trainee at World Fashion Exchange. 
 - Naveen Sharma- Board Member - He received a scholarship for Computer Science and supported our Indian students in Math and Science. 
 - Yeshi Khampa- Board Member - She holds a BA in German language, literature & cultural studies; now she works at Amazon. 
 - Anudev Jayara- Board Member - Alumnus with a Computer Science Engineering degree, former administrator at Pestalozzi India, now self-employed leveraging his expertise. 
 - Dakshina Kaur- Board Member - Alumna of Pestalozzi India, FDDI Kolkata graduate with 7 years in footwear design, now freelancing with a creativity and innovation focus. 
 - Shelja Thakur- Programme Development Officer / Board Secretary - Pestalozzi alumna and our Alumni Coordinator in India. She studies development to help drive positive change in her country. 
 
 - Ajay Shrestha- Board Chair - An alumnus of our Indian Campus, he became Board Chair at Pestalozzi Nepal and serves on the alumni committee. 
 - Shree Shankar- Board Adviser - As a social worker and former Director of SOS Children's Villages Nepal, his extensive expertise is invaluable to us. 
 - Reena Shakya- Assistant Director - Working at PCEC Pokhara since 2021, Reena oversees social care, health, education, behaviour, workshops, and extra-curricular activities. 
 - Kiran Thami- Director - With a BBA from Tribhuvan University, Kiran has experience of working in non-profits, is skilled in accounting, and business development. 
 - Sabita Bhandari- Assistant Director - PI Alumna Sabita graduated in 2016 (B.Com) and 2021 (MBS). Working at the Nepalese Village since 2016, she is now Assistant Director. 
 
 - Shelja Thakur- Member - Pestalozzi alumna and our Alumni Coordinator in India. She studies development to help drive positive change in her country. 
 - Joseph Kumwenda- Member - Joseph is an Edulution Field Coordinator, co-founded Lumezi FM, and supports Pestalozzi Zambia Alumni. He is studying Development Studies. 
 - Tenzin Tsepak- Member - With degrees in English and Education, and a Master’s in English, Tsepak teaches at the Dalai Lama Institute for Higher Education. 
 - Sabita Bhandari- Member - Alumna Sabita graduated in 2016 (B.Com) and 2021 (MBS). Working at the Nepalese Village since 2016, she is now Assistant Director. 
 - Sunil Gautam- Member - Pestalozzi alum, now a Software Engineer in Sydney; active alumnus aiming to create lasting impact for disadvantaged children. 
 - Prisca Mulongo- Member - Proud Pestalozzi alumna, nurse, midwife, and clinical instructor. Awarded 2021 Gold Impact Award. Committed to supporting others. 
 - Peeraya Utsajit- Member - A Mahidol University BA and PhD graduate, she teaches at Mahidol University. A dedicated volunteer, she serves on the Thai Pestalozzi board. 
 - Afonso M. Fernando- Member - Selected from Mayukwayukwa Refugee camp, Afonso is a Math Coach for Edulution and founder of Zam-Ango Records. 
 - Ajay Shrestha- Member - An alumnus of our Indian Campus, he became Board Chair at Pestalozzi Nepal and serves on the alumni committee. 
 - Chok Tsering- Member - With a master of the LSE he continues to support Pestalozzi’s work, believing it empowers young people to make a positive impact. 
 - Lobsang Dolma- Member - She is motivated to support students from backgrounds like hers, believing that this helps change lives and communities for the better. 
 - Mulenga Mwamba- Member - After her studies, she coaches at Edulution and works with SkillsHub to ensure the success of each child with a Pestalozzi scholarship. 
 - Pravin Kamble- Member - He believes education drives dreams. In 2021, he founded 'Oneureka Foundation' to support talented, underprivileged students in India. 
 - Astridah Nambela- Member - She values continuing Pestalozzi's work, supporting its vision of life-changing education and empowering alumni to create global change. 
 - Katie Pawara Chantar- Member - As a Thai Pestalozzi Foundation member, she aims to positively impact students' lives, just as Pestalozzi International did for her. 
 - Vivien Musonda- Member - A BBA grad from the University of Zambia, she aims to support Pestalozzi through event organizing, mentoring, and sharing her journey. 
 
