Member Profiles

GRACE ABENA JAMES

CHAIRWOMAN

Overview

As Managing Director and CEO, for Merita Technologies, she brings over 28 years experience to the company. Mrs. James’ training and experience has been in business and human resource management. She conducted the company’s registration, and compliance for operating in the 3 countries the company has been in. Her attention is focused on the Business Development aspect of Merita Technologies, finding the talents, sourcing projects, and ensuring that the Mission, Vision, and Goals of the company are achieved.

Background

In 1989, she was a member of the CFTA, a Canadian grassroots movement that advocated for shutting down a racist exhibit about Africa at the Royal Ontario Museum. Her focus went on to, with her husband (a Software Architect), raising their 2 daughters while managing their Tech company. In the midst of that, she lived in Ghana, and while there, helped women farmers in the Brong Ahafo Region to be the recipient of the Women in Farming Project award. This led to her becoming a board member of Asuaga Gari Women’s Co-op, assisting to expand the operation from 6 women to 35, increasing production, and building an innovative Gari factory. Which, recently, is the recipient of another award – with government support, as the 1st Cassava Biofuel project in Ghana. Supplying power to the town.

Pan African Work

Her Pan African work expanded when she officially repatriated to Ethiopia. As a Facilitator for SRDC (6th Region Diaspora Caucus), Abena organized a trade and investment conference in Ethiopia, and afterwards, Jamaica. This yielded an MOU with the Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce, and started a chapter in Jamaica. She continued her NGO work as the Secretary of the Ethiopia World Federation. There, she worked on re-filing the NGO’s paperwork needed for them to acquire their Income Generating Status certification. In addition, participated in mobilizing the Jamaican Diaspora to, and met with, the then Jamaican PM, Portia Simpson, to request representation with the Ethiopian government for residency registration.

Work / Life in Kenya

She later moved to Kenya and through her IT company’s CSR mission, provided space and management support to young people in visual arts. In addition, she worked with the Bandung Conference to provide laptops to Karen public school, and Thika Women’s Prison inmates. Also liaised with the Kenya Diaspora Alliance and the Jamaican Consulate in Nairobi to connect with the current Jamaican PM, Hon. Holness, to discuss collaboration on various trade projects.

Work / Life in Tanzania

Mrs James continues her CSO work in Tanzania, as the Chairperson for the 6th Region African Diaspora Alliance in Tanzania, an NGO for and by the African Descendants repatriating to Tanzania. The organ focuses on helping people to repatriate, integrate into the society, give back to the country, and contribute to advocacy work for the African Descendants and their Right to Return to Africa. She is also the Africa Facilitator for the AUADS High Council, a NGO recently created to be the governing body to liaise with the AU on matters concerning the African Diaspora.

SAIDI MOHAMMED MASUDI

PERMANENT SECRETARY

Overview

A name synonymous with dedication and community service, hails from the small fishing village of Ruvu near the picturesque town of Lindi, Tanzania. In 1975, Saidi laid the foundation for his journey at Kurasini Primary School in the Dar es Salaam Region. His early education instilled in him the values of knowledge and resilience, shaping his path towards a life of service.

Background

In the earlier years of his career, Saidi ventured into tourism, working with Evergreen Tours in Dar es Salaam. As a driver and tour guide, he had the privilege of introducing Tanzania’s natural beauty and rich culture to tourists from around the world.

Then in 1993 to 1994, Saidi joined the Brollas Project in Dar es Salaam, where he displayed exceptional logistical skills, demonstrating his ability to excel in diverse professional settings. Saidi then served with CARE Tanzania in Dar es Salaam, where he was instrumental in managing procurement, logistics, and transportation operations. His efforts played a pivotal role in facilitating and supporting humanitarian initiatives, leaving an indelible mark on the organization’s mission.

Status quo

In his retirement years, Saidi decided to return to the land. So since 2010, he has dedicated himself to sustainable farming practices in the vibrant region of Lindi. His commitment to responsible agriculture not only sustains livelihoods but also fosters local agriculture’s growth. Saidi’s dedication to community service extends beyond his professional life. He has been a prominent member of the Lindi Islamic Foundation of Tanzania(LIFT) from 2013, where he is an active member of its Leadership Team. His active involvement in community leadership initiatives underscores his unwavering commitment to uplifting and empowering the local community. In addition, he is a board member of 6RADAT and brings CSO wisdom, Tanzanian knowledge and cultural understanding to the operations of the organization.. Saidi Mohammed Masudi’s life story is a testament to the power of dedication and the profound impact one individual can have on society. With a heart full of compassion and a lifetime of diverse experiences, he continues to be a source of inspiration for all who are fortunate enough to know him.

LADISLAUS NORBETH TUMBU

DIRECTOR

Overview

A Tanzanian by nationality, is a man driven by a deep commitment to education, community service, and civic engagement. His life journey, as reflected in his profile, is a testament to his unwavering dedication to making a positive impact on his society.

Ladislaus hails from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education with honors from University of Dar es Salaam. He is fluent in Kiswahili and Kiha, both spoken and written, while also being comfortable with English, both in speech and writing.

Background

Notably, he served as an Election Observer during the Tanzania General Election of 2020 under the Research and Education for Democracy in Tanzania (REDET). His role was critical in ensuring transparent and fair elections. He also worked as an Educational Research Intern at Ubongo Kids Limited, contributing to the development of educational content for children and assessing its effectiveness.

Community Work

Ladislaus’s passion for community engagement and volunteerism shines through his extensive involvement in various organizations and events. He has been an active member of the Red Cross Tanzania, dedicating his time to volunteer and support humanitarian causes. His organizational and managerial skills have been recognized through leadership roles such as Minister of Sports Games and Culture at DARUSO and Chairperson at the University of Dar es Salaam Student Teachers’ Association.

Academic Work

Ladislaus’s intellectual curiosity and commitment to education are evident in his involvement in academic projects. He presented a thought-provoking paper on “Privatization and Social Justice: Right to Education of Children in Grassroots Community ” during his academic journey. He also actively participated in various festivals and conferences, including the Mwalimu Nyerere Chair in Pan African Studies Festival, where he contributed his insights on education and youth engagement.

Growth & Leadership

His commitment to personal growth is further evident in his participation in the Young Leadership Program at Friedrich Ebert Stiftung and his completion of various training courses related to health, hygiene, and first aid.

In summary, Ladislaus Norbeth Tumbu is a dedicated individual whose life story is marked by a commitment to education, community service, and civic engagement. He brings all of this to 6RADAT in his service as a board member.

THEAL RENEE HAMPTON

TREASURER

Overview

A remarkable individual with a lifetime of experiences and a heart dedicated to serving her community. Her story is one of commitment, skill, and a genuine passion for making a difference in the lives of others. Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, Mama Rene’s (as she is affectionately called) journey began at Locke High School, where she completed her high school education and received her diploma in June 1971. Her passion for business management led her to LA Trade Tech, where she earned a Business Management Degree in July 1973. These formative years laid the foundation for her future endeavors.

Background

Sistah Rene’s professional life started in September 1986 when she joined the United States Postal Service in Los Angeles, CA, as a Warehouse Admin. Her role was vital in ensuring the timely and efficient processing of shipments. She was responsible for completing shipments by processing and loading orders, preparing orders, and maintaining the delivery area. Her dedication to her work and meticulous attention to detail made her an invaluable member of the team during her two decades of service.

In March 2013, she embarked on a new adventure by establishing Hampton Business Services in Los Angeles, CA. As the owner, she provided a range of administrative and secretarial services, demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit and determination to contribute to her community. Among her responsibilities, the most significant was filing tax returns for individuals and SMEs.

Status quo

After retiring, Sistah Rene’s commitment to serving others only grew stronger. Since January 2016, she has been an active community volunteer, dedicating her time and skills to various causes. Her skills in child and elderly care, gardening, and workshop planning have made a significant impact on those she has assisted. Her selflessness and compassion shine through in her volunteer work, enriching the lives of those she serves.

As she continues to enrich the lives of others through her volunteer efforts and the skills with 6RADAT, Sis Renee stands as a shining example of the positive impact one person can have on their community and beyond.

JACQUELINE J. M. MWINYIMVUA

DIRECTOR

Overview

Madam Mwinyimvua has a solid background experience in program support management in the areas of Administration, procurement, fleet management, safety and security, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Risk and Compliance, property management and People and Culture. Experience in financial management, preparations and monitoring of budgets. An effective communicator at all levels and a facilitator. Excellent networking skills and strong points in establishing and maintaining collaborative relationships with strategic partners. She has been the Director of Operations and Human Resources for CARE International Tanzania 2018 to 2023, overseeing the operational management and Human Resources management.

Background

She has developed policies and managed their implementations, strategy formulations and implementations, negotiations, governance, employees’ relations, managing performance and conflicts management, and setup systems. Well experienced in managing the Human Resources Department in accordance with Tanzanian Labour laws and organizational policies and procedures. Networking skills and strong points in establishing and maintaining collaborative relationships with strategic partners such as the peer NGOs, GoT ministries and agencies, local partners, and civil society organizations, consultants and service providers

Experience

Experienced in leading and managing human and financial resources, having worked in different departments of program support and managed managers, professional officers and financial resources. Ability to set up a new Country Office, project office or sub offices and prepare standard operating procedures and develop policy documents and reports. With CARE International Tanzania, I worked in a range of different roles and capacities in different departments and functions, including Country Office Safety and Security Focal Point, Country Office Safeguarding Focal Point, Head of Operations.

She has more than 10 years’ experience in a Senior Level role and, Senior Management Team member responsible for coordination of operations in a country office. Leading and managing human and financial resources. Currently she is available for People & Culture and Operational Management consultancies. A Board member of Help to Help Tanzania (NGO), Board member of College of Social Sciences and Humanities, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Tanzania. And now the pleasure of serving on the Board of the 6th Region African Diaspora Alliance in Tanzania.

Academic Work

Ladislaus’s intellectual curiosity and commitment to education are evident in his involvement in academic projects. He presented a thought-provoking paper on “Privatization and Social Justice: Right to Education of Children in Grassroots Community ” during his academic journey. He also actively participated in various festivals and conferences, including the Mwalimu Nyerere Chair in Pan African Studies Festival, where he contributed his insights on education and youth engagement.

Growth & Leadership

His commitment to personal growth is further evident in his participation in the Young Leadership Program at Friedrich Ebert Stiftung and his completion of various training courses related to health, hygiene, and first aid.

In summary, Ladislaus Norbeth Tumbu is a dedicated individual whose life story is marked by a commitment to education, community service, and civic engagement. He brings all of this to 6RADAT in his service as a board member.

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