Rob founded MYO in 2003 while living and working as a volunteer in Arandis, Namibia. Building on educational initiatives he had developed as a volunteer education consultant, he established MYO to provide long-term educational opportunities and support for young people in Mondesa.
After spending several years based in Namibia and guiding the organisation through its formative years, Rob handed over the day-to-day management of MYO to Vera Leech in 2009. Today, he lives in West Virginia and Ohio in the United States but remains closely involved as an MYO Trustee. He continues to support the organisation’s growth and regularly visits Namibia to stay connected with MYO, its learners, and its mission.
Vera Leech has been part of the MYO story since 2004, first as a committee member and later as a Trustee. With more than 40 years of experience in education, she has dedicated her career to helping young people reach their potential through learning.
A passionate advocate for reading and literacy, Vera believes that reading is the foundation of all education and personal growth. She played a key role in shaping and developing MYO over many years, including leading the organisation following Rob Myres’ return to the United States. Originally from Zimbabwe, Vera and her husband have called Namibia home for more than 40 years and have a deep appreciation for its people, landscapes, and culture.
Marie van der Merwe is a Trustee of MYO and served as the organisation’s bookkeeper for many years. With her extensive financial and administrative experience, she was responsible for managing MYO’s financial affairs and helping to ensure the organisation’s long-term stability and accountability.
Her dedication, professionalism, and longstanding commitment have made an important contribution to the growth and sustainability of MYO.
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 joined MYO’s advisory board as a strategic advisor in 2009 and has supported the organisation with his expertise and guidance ever since. A Namibian engineer and entrepreneur with an MBA from New York University, Elron is passionate about the development of the energy sector in Southern Africa and the creation of opportunities for future generations.
As Managing Director of Tesla Energy Solutions in Walvis Bay, he brings valuable leadership and business experience to MYO. His commitment to youth development and education reflects his belief in empowering the next generation of Namibian leaders.
Gundula is a valued member of the MYO Board and a dedicated primary school teacher with a strong commitment to education and community development. Through her experience and active involvement in a variety of community initiatives, she provides valuable guidance and support to the organisation.
In addition to her role on the Board, Gundula taught German classes to MYO alumni, helping young adults further develop their language skills and expand their opportunities for the future. Her dedication to education and lifelong learning continues to benefit the MYO community.
Alexander is a member of MYO’s Advisory Board and brings valuable expertise and strategic insight to the organisation. With a background in investment management, he contributes professional experience and a broad network of connections that support MYO’s long-term development.
In addition to his role at MYO, Alexander serves on the Board of Little House of Hope, an early childhood development project with which MYO enjoys a close and longstanding partnership. His guidance and commitment help strengthen both organisations and their shared mission of expanding educational opportunities for young people.
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.