FOUNDER and DIRECTOR

I volunteered in Malawi back in 2003 and fell in love with the ‘warm heart of Africa’. For over twenty years I have been exploring Malawi, living and working in Lilongwe for three years and leading over 150 volunteers on projects. I became the first British woman to walk the length of Malawi (from Songwe border to Marker border) in 2015, raising funds for Inspire Malawi and am, slowly, learning Chichewa. As a teacher, I am passionate about education and equality and feel very proud of the numerous schools we have been able to support over the years.

DIRECTOR

Jess first came to Malawi in 2009, staying in Mlanda and helping to renovate Chipigela’s Primary School. Inspired and motivated to do more, Jess returned in 2012 supporting our development at Namcholi School and, most recently, in April 2023. Jess is a formidable fundraiser, running the London marathon and cycling from Lands End to John O’Groats!

TRUSTEE & VOLUNTEER

I’ve been involved with Inspire Malawi for over 10 years after my daughter went on a charity trip to Malawi. I subsequently have taken four groups of teenagers out to help renovate school buildings in the Dedza area. I was enthralled by Malawi and its friendly people and felt driven to help the young Malawians achieve their potential through Education. I have sponsored a young Malawian boy but Inspire Malawi provides so much more for so many. I am a semi-retired teacher, now based in Scotland.

CONTRACTOR

Mr Banda has been our preferred contractor since 2007 when he assisted us in developing a Science Laboratory at Lizulu CDSS. He works in Lilongwe and has been in building for over 30 years, developing schools, hospitals and private homes. He strives to keep his costs low as he is passionate about his work and support his fellow countrymen.

TRUSTEE & VOLUNTEER

Helen has been volunteering with Inspire Malawi since 2016, when she first met Michelle at BMIS in Lilongwe where they taught together. Helen still lives in Lilongwe helping with projects on the ground and mobilising teams of volunteers within country when required.

TRUSTEE & VOLUNTEER

Lucy has been volunteering with Inspire Malawi since fist meeting Michelle in 2016, when they were both teaching at Bishop Mackenzie International School in Lilongwe. As an Early Years specialist, Lucy’s knowledge and experience is invaluable as we develop child-friending learning environments. Lucy still lives in Lilongwe and is able to assist with monitoring all projects and communication within Malawi.