Staff

Mama Selina Shayo

Mama Selina, from the Kilimanjaro region, has been working with us since January 2008. Since early 2026, she has been the on-site director of the Tuwapende Watoto Children’s Home. Following elementary school, she attended Upendo College for two years and completed her training as an early childhood educator. She manages the children’s home and shares responsibility for the kitchen with Mama Joyce. Mama Selina loves children and is deeply committed to their well-being. She also helps the children with their homework.

Mama Joyce Swai

Mama Joyce, from the Arusha region, has been working with us since December 2009. After finishing elementary school, she attended Upendo College for two years and became an early childhood educator. Mama Joyce shares kitchen duties with Mama Selina. She loves helping children. Her daughter Nancy also lives at the children’s home. Nancy attends Baobab Secondary School.

Mama Merina Ilanda Khangaa

Mama Merina, born in the Iringa region, has been working with us since March 2010. She is in charge of cleaning and laundry at the orphanage, and helps the children with their weekly laundry.

Mother Emilia Apollinary

Mama Emilia, born in Dodoma, has been supporting our team at the children’s home as a substitute during holidays and weekends since 2016. She works as a cook, helps with cleaning and laundry, and takes on other tasks typically handled by the other caregivers. She is married to our night watchman, Massawe.

Night watchman Apolinan Frederic Massawe

Apolinan is responsible for guarding our children’s home at night. Apolinan has been working for our foundation since April 2013.