THE BOARD: MEET KATE UK

President: Naa Akle Dromo Okantey

Meet Kate for me is incredibly special because sustainability is not just a buzz word, but a reality. We do development as development should be done. In 2011, I returned to my country of birth for 4 months to volunteer and I fell in love with Meet Kate because they represent the Ghana I see. Not what the media will have you believe, but the spirit and strength of a people who; despite hardships have so much to give and are willing to work hard to see their dreams realised. Meet Kate sees their potential, believes in it and lends a helping hand. Our visison is a self reliant Africa. An extract from a poem I wrote:

“There is so much potential, etched into each face. They have dreams and ambitions, though sometimes hard to chase, Adversity and disappointment are hard to distinguish. Yet the light in their eyes impossible to extinguish. For they represent a hope, that the future is bright. Regardless of the battles they will have to fight”.

As a young Ghanaian Brit, I feel particularly honoured to be a part of this.

Treasurer: Guy Mollett

I believe that long term stability and a plan for self-reliance is a crucial area that any charity must strive for and these goals are fundamental to Meet Kate. The opportunities that they are providing are truly inspirational and when it became clear that I could be part of it the answer was easy to find. Unfortunately I have never visited Ghana, and therefore not directly seen its impact, but the enthusiasm of those that have has given me a sense of the positive outcomes that are being produced. Hopefully in the future I can see for myself what we are achieving.

Secretary: Tanya Masimba

After hearing about Meet Kate from one of the volunteers (Naa Okantey) I knew that this was something that I would want to get involved in and be a part of. Meet Kate gives people the tools to be in charge of their own lives and destiny and this is what makes me happy and proud to be a part of Meet Kate. In just 5 years Meet Kate has achieved so much and I believe that by getting everyone involved we can accomplish great things.

One of my favourite quotes by Albert Einstein says "The world is a dangerous place, not because of those who do evil, but because of those who look on and do nothing."

Fundraising Coordiantor: Rebecca Gee

I first came across Meet Kate when Naa (UK president) gave a talk about it at our university. I was really impressed for two main
reasons:

Although the concept of charity is a good one, it can often be done badly. The accusation being that they help the recipient with their problem but do little to deal with the causes of that problem. Meet Kate isn't about that and works hard to change this negative view making self-reliance and sustainability its goal. One which is well on the way to being achieved.

Africa is too often represented to the Western world as a place overtaken by poverty, illness and sadness. However anyone who has set foot there will know that it is an extraordinary continent full of laughter, good dance moves, bright colours, strength and hope. Meet Kate provides an excellent showcase for this and although it might not be able to "cure" the world of its problems, it certainly makes a difference to the lives of the children it works with.

I'm excited to watch Meet Kate UK grow and to be involved in helping to make that happen.