Rob founded MYO whilst living and working as a volunteer in Arandis, Namibia in 2003. Building on programs he had developed during his time as a volunteer education consultant, Rob worked to create a more permanent education-based youth development program in the township of Mondesa. He spent several years based in Namibia, and then continued to return frequently until turning over day-to-day management of MYO to Vera Leech in 2009. Rob lives in West Virginia and Ohio and remains active as an MYO Trustee and returns regularly to visit and attend to MYO matters.
Vera Leech has been a committee member and subsequently a Trustee of Mondesa Youth Opportunities Trust since 2004. With over 40 years of experience in education, she is a dedicated teacher originally from Zimbabwe. Vera takes pride in being a part of the MYO story and strongly advocates for the power of reading and understanding. Recognizing Namibia’s limited reading culture, she encourages teachers to promote reading as the fundamental key to all learning. She and her husband have called Namibia home for more than 40 years, appreciating its people, land, and lifestyle.
Marie van der Merwe, a Trustee, holds the role of book-keeper at Mondesa Youth Opportunities. With her extensive experience, she has been primarily responsible for managing the organisation’s financial affairs for many years.
The Advisory Board plays a crucial role to our organization. Composed of esteemed individuals with diverse areas of expertise, the Board Members offer their valuable insights and knowledge and serve as a trusted resource, providing us with invaluable advice, recommendations, and guidance based on their respective areas of expertise. Their collective wisdom and support empower us to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and strive towards our mission with confidence and clarity.
Elron, a Namibian citizen, engineer and entrepreneur specializing in Namibia’s energy sector, joined the MYO advisory board as a strategic advisor in 2009. With an MBA from New York University, he is passionate about developing the energy industry in Southern Africa. Committed to creating opportunities for the next generation of Namibian leaders, Elron actively contributes his insights and expertise to MYO’s mission.
Gundula, a dedicated primary school teacher actively engaged in various community initiatives, plays a vital role as a valued member of our Board. With her extensive involvement and experience, she offers invaluable assistance, guidance, and support, contributing to our organisation’s success in multifaceted ways.
Alexander, our newest member of the Advisory Board, brings valuable expertise and connections to our organisation. In addition to serving on our Board, Alexander is also a member of the Board of Little House of Hope, an Early Learning project with which we have a close partnership. His extensive experience and background in investment management provides important insights and strategic guidance to our organisation.
Mondesa Youth Opportunities is a registered trust in Namibia and an IRS 501(c)3 approved non-profit in the United States. MYO relies exclusively on donations from individuals or businesses to sustain our operations.