Board Members, Senior Management

Joel Alex Olang, Executive Director & Founder

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Joel Alex Olang, a visionary tech leader with a rich history of pioneering sustainable solutions, is making significant strides in promoting innovation and environmental consciousness. His recent masterclass on “Reducing Greenhouse Emissions through Telemedicine and Digital Technology” spotlights the critical intersection of telemedicine, environmental sustainability, and digital carbon footprint reduction in Kenya. Through insightful case studies and practical application of the Model for the Assessment of Telemedicine (MAST), Joel empowers participants to lead environmentally sustainable digital projects, contributing to a greener future while improving healthcare access.   Joel’s academic journey is a testament to his commitment to diverse fields of study across continents. He earned his undergraduate degree, a BA in International Relations and Diplomacy with IT, at Maseno University in Kenya, setting the stage for his academic pursuits. Moreover, his notable achievement includes an Executive MBA-style Leadership in Business at Northwestern University during his participation in the prestigious Mandela Washinton Fellowship, further enriching his expertise in entrepreneurship and leadership. The Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders (MWF) is a flagship program of the U.S. Department of State’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI). Established in 2014, it empowers young African leaders to return home with the skills and knowledge to create positive change in their communities and countries.   This educational odyssey, spanning Kenya and the United States, has equipped Joel with a unique perspective to drive positive change and innovation in the realms of international relations, entrepreneurship, and public health. Work mail: joelalex@urbantechforhope.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-alex-l-i-o-n-1944298b/

Collaboration

Mental Health is part of Total Health

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People are not neatly divided into physical, mental and emotional parts. What affects one part affects the others. When people feel anxious, they might also not eat well; they might drink too much alcohol. When people are laid up with an illness, they might also feel sad; they might think bad thoughts. So, being healthy means being healthy physically and mentally and emotionally. Often emotional problems are not recognized because physical or behavior problems get attention first. We think that the person who is not sleeping well just had a tough night. But they might be depressed. We think a child who misbehaves might just need more discipline. But the child might be fearful of something. When mental health problems are not noticed, people can’t get the help they need. Here are some things to keep in mind.Recognize the problem: The first step is to recognize mental health disorders when they occur. Serious mental health problems differ from everyday ups and downs. Everyone has a day when things do not feel right, or they feel down or blue. But if that feeling persists for many days and starts to affect one’s ability to sleep or eat or work then it indicate a more serious condition. Fight Stigma: Mental health disorders are not signs of weakness or a reason to be ashamed. The phrase popularized by public figures, “it’s OK to not be OK” captures the point well. Being ashamed of showing feelings and distress does not help one to resolve them. Don’t make a person with mental health challenges feel more isolated and more distressed by stigmatizing them. Keep physically active: Physical exercise of any kind can help a person feel better physically and mentally. Walking, stretching or other exercise alone or with others can have a positive impact on mental health and therefore on total health. Make decisions: People who have mental health challenges feel overwhelmed and seemingly unable to take any action. Yet, there are many active decisions one can make in the course of the day. Even a simple decision about when to wake up or clean a room is a way of taking control of your life at a time when you feel you have less control. Little decision steps can lead to bigger steps. Use the resources you have and create new ones: Many areas suffer from the lack of mental health practitioners and clinics. Even without professional practitioners, there are mental health interventions that can be helpful. Communities have indigenous mental health resources in the wisdom and comfort that elders or those with lived experiences can offer. Mental health awareness training is another curriculum that can be taught and learned by anyone, not just a professional practitioner. It’s a journey not a race: Managing one’s health and one’s mental health is a long journey over a lifetime. There will be stops and starts, detours and delays, but recovery from mental health challenges is possible. It happens all the time. Knowing this can help you sustain yourself during difficult times. Photo by Pavel Anoshin on Unsplash

Board Members, Senior Management

Dr. Kevin Mugoye

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Chief Engineer-Machine Learning Kevin Mugoye PhD is an accomplished Computer Scientist and Machine Learning Researcher and a Data Scientist with 4+ years of research and business experience at top Universities, private Research Corporations, and successful Startups. With Computer Science and free-lancing experience in data science and analytics projects, I open my world for commercial research on Machine Learning and Data Science for large-scale connected intelligent systems. My philosophy has been and will always be that the best way to address an existing challenge is to create a solution for it. Academic Journey PhD in Computer Science from Maseno University, Masters in Computer Science from University of Nairobi, and Bsc. In Information Technology from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. Teaching and mentoring experience   Kevin is an expert in communicating ideas from machine learning, statistics and computer science, as well as in presenting the data analysis results to technical and non-technical audiences, and delivered more than 5 invited talks at conferences, Higher learning academic institutions and commercial companies in Kenya. Since 2014, I have taught computer science-related subjects at Maseno University, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University, Kamosi friends University and extended my work to University of the People. Hands-on work I have developed a number of innovative artificial intelligence (AI) solutions for local Kenyan problems.   Contact Info Email address: kmugoye@urbantechforhope.com  

Board Members, Senior Management

Marie Ndoe Mwamtigino

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  Marie’ Ndoe Mwamtigino Co-founder; Allow us to introduce you to Marie Ndoe Mwamtigino, one of the esteemed co-founders of Urban Tech For Hope. She is a dedicated philanthropist with a passion for improving the welfare of both young and older generations, with a special focus on Adolescent Girls and Young Women in Kenya. Her tireless efforts in providing psychosocial support and her unwavering commitment as a Human Rights Defender truly set her apart. Marie’s educational journey has given her skills in Business Administration from KCA College. Her belief in equal opportunity and accountability is at the core of her work. She firmly advocates for the integration of Science and Technology to enhance daily healthcare service access and information dissemination, especially at the grassroots level. Marie is a collaborative spirit who understands the importance of sustainability. She is a seasoned expert in working with various organizations, from Civil Society to Government bodies, and like-minded organizations in both the Private and Public sectors. Her proficiency extends to areas such as Franchising, Prototyping, and Community Mapping. When it comes to organizational success, Marie is a true luminary. She excels in implementing VMOSA (Vision, Mission, Objective, Strategies, and Action plans) to achieve short-term goals while keeping the long-term mission in sharp focus. She serves as a guiding light for the staff, ensuring everyone shares the same vision for the organization. Marie’s remarkable track record in providing safe spaces and psychosocial support to Vulnerable Populations in various community settings speaks volumes. She approaches her work with a holistic perspective, guiding individuals through treatment and therapy processes with empathy and care. Adaptable and highly skilled in communication and IT, Marie plays a pivotal role in Urban Tech For Hope’s administrative and management operations. With over a decade and a half of dedicated community service, both in Kenya (Kisumu and Mombasa) and Tanzania (Morogoro town), she brings warmth, people-centered counseling, and rehabilitation expertise to the forefront. Marie is not only an expert arbitrator but also a staunch advocate for institutional policies and procedures related to equal opportunities, performance, risk assessment, and confidentiality. Her dedication to Urban Tech For Hope’s mission is truly inspiring, making her an invaluable asset to the organization’s transformative journey. Contact Info Email address: marie.mwamtigino@urbantechforhope.com Phone: +245723971990 Click edit button to change this text. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Board Members, Senior Management

Austine Wanga, Director Mental Health and GBV

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BIOGRAPHY: Austine Wanga is a Kenyan medical professional with extensive experience in HIV programming, clinical mentoring, and palliative care. He has worked as a service provider and HIV clinical mentor under the International Centre for Aids Care and Treatment Program. Wanga has also been trained in the clinical management of HIV, leadership, and management in health, global mental health, and basic addiction science. He has been involved in prevention and GBV response activities, representing LVCT Health at the Kisumu County Gender Technical Working Group, and coordinating LGBTIQ activities in the Western Region. Wanga is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Health Systems Management at Kenya Methodist University. Contact Info Email address: awanga@urbantechforhope.com

Board Members

Steve Aoko

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BIOGRAPHY: Aoko is an Advocate of the high Court of Kenya. He holds a Bachelor of Laws Degree from The Catholic University of Eastern Africa, a Post graduate Diploma from the Kenya School of Law and is currently a Masters of Business Administration student at the University of Nairobi. He is the Managing Partner of the law firm of Aoko, Ondieki & Co. Advocates, where he heads Legal Consultancy and Commercial Law department. Aoko, arguably one of the most brilliant legal and analytical minds in the business, has tremendous experience in the Non governmental sector, civil and criminal law in addition to his impeccable expertise in land and conveyancing matters. EDUCATION & COURT ADMISSIONS • University of Nairobi MBA• Kenya School of Law Post Graduate Diploma• CUEA, LLB (Hons) MEMBERSHIPS Law Society of Kenya PRACTICE PRACTICE AREAS Business Establishment | Forensics and Due Diligence | Joint Ventures, Mergers & Acquisitions | Private Equity | Privatisation, Project Finance & Infrastructure Contact Info Email address: saoko@urbantechforhope.com

Board Members

Caroline Nyandat, Board Member

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BIOGRAPHY: A motivated individual with effective communication skills and committed to build capacity of communities with quality with quality information and service and services on sexual Reproductive Health and Rights.Core objectives being to generate and disseminate health knowledge for individuals and societal empowerment and development Currently work with Kisumu medical and education Trust (KMET) as a reproductive Health coordinator for the last dedicate.She sees the coordination of reproductive health activities in six countries in South West Kenya.Building of networks and linkages Opinion maters on another at sub-counties levels to inform Reproductive Health interactions.Engages with policy and opinion maters on matters of reproductive health at six countries in south west Kenya. EDUCATION She has a Bachelor of arts in sociology and Anthropology from Maseno University and is financing in a MA degree in public health course with much focus on community based health care, Epidemiology, Research methods, communicable diseases, toxicology, project management and planning project monitoring and education, diseases semblance community development and research methods.A certified psychiatrist from Kenya institute of professional councilors registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing from Kenya medical training college, involve in capacity building of health care services providers during a partnership of Kmet and Korolnska latitudes in Sweden and as a Farming consultant during Kmets partnership with reproductive health Right Alliance (RHRA). ACTIVITIES & EXPERIENCE Operation research and dissemination on sexual reproductive health and right.Strategic consultation with like minded organization on matters pertaining to SRHR. She has been a reproductive health consultant for the last 8 and half years. Working with Karolinka institute in post abortion research between nurse, midwife and physician on efficiency and effectiveness on use of misoprostol for the management of incomplete abortion . Worked with the community based Organization on developing information Education and Communication (I.E.C) Micro postal messages. Worked with male Champions by engaging them to support their partners in accessing them to support their partners in accessing sexual reproductive health services like cancer screening, contraceptive service, Antenatal care and alter relevant reproductive health services Contact Info Email address: cnyandati@urbantechforhope.com

Senior Management

George Nyabala, Senior M&E Officer, Programs

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BIOGRAPHY: George prides himself as a well-trained, self-motivated, analytical and hands-on M&E professional, with experience in the design, implementation and management of M&E processes including design of data tools, logical frameworks, surveys, implementation of performance dashboards, performance monitoring plans, indicator tracking matrices, implementation and updating of M&E plans, and work plans. He is comfortable using various M&E systems including DHIS2, IQCare, AdT, DREAMS. Equipped with current and modern data analytics tools and software including MS Project, SPSS, STATA, Epi Info, SAS and always learning new technologies for data manipulation and visualization like Power BI, George is confident to be an asset in the emerging world of possibilities within the M&E and Strategic Information Environment. EDUCATION George is A B.A. graduate in Development Studies with Information Technology, from Maseno University and currently an MSc in Health Informatics student at Rongo University. He has, since completing his undergraduate studies, acquired over 7 years of progressive hands-on experience in monitoring and evaluation. Research. ACTIVITIES With keen interest in information systems for decision support, he is an invaluable asset in assessing system needs and supporting design and roll-out of systems that better manage program data for quality and efficiency. George is not only useful in design of conference posters and abstracts to communicate program successes, but also adept at documentation of Most significant change stories (MSCS), training and capacity building of teams, supervision and establishing useful collaborations and networks. OTHER SKILLS Besides formal training, he has enrolled in and completed several online certification courses in M&E including through MEASURE Evaluation, NASCOP, Global Health, MOOCS, Codecademy and NPTEL while he has also followed several tutorials on YouTube that has exposed him to a sea of resources relevant to the application of technologies in data management. EXPERIENCE In terms of programs management, George has a wealth of experience in community health programs implementation in collaboration with government health facilities. Besides, his experience not only make him comfortable with key population (FSW, MSM, PWID) programming for HIV testing, HIV prevention and care and treatment, but also with gender and sexual minorities comprising Lesbians, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender, Intersex and Queer (LGBTIQ) population. In addition, he is also comfortable with programming for adolescent, girls and young women (AGYW) together with fisher folk. George seeks to leverage these competences to join efforts in design and implementation of evidence driven programs that lead to socio-economic transformation and livelihood diversification in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within and without Africa. Contact Info Email address: gnyabala@urbantechforhope.com

Board Members

DAPHINE KEMUNTO OKIOMA, Board Member

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BIOGRAPHY: She is philanthropic about Young people more-so; Adolescent Girls and Young Women, well visible during her time with the non-profits and for-profit institutions since the inception of her career life.Currently is the Marketing Manager at Access Africa which deals with Informal Settlement and the provision of quality Health care to its target populations in the slums. EDUCATION She holds a Masters of Business Administration, MBA in Marketing Management -General from the University of Nairobi, a Bachelors in Business Management; Marketing and Related Support Services from Moi University, a Diploma in Business Management; Marketing and Related Support Services from the University of Nairobi. EXPERIENCE Daphine has worked as the Regional Marketing Officer at Marie Stopes Kenya a non-profit Organization which deals with Sexual Reproductive Health of Adolescents and Young Women. Important to note her signature in the for-profit world as a Marketing and Administration professional with over half a decade of experience in marketing, sales, reporting, credit and customer relationship management administration, training and team leadership areas being capable of making decisions and executing strategies.Has also worked at the Kenya Revenue Authority as a Returns Officer, at Safaricom Kenya as the Trade Development Representative same position as at Google Kenya, Top Image Africa. Daphine loves travelling and networking as she believes the worth person network is her net-worth, she loves indulging in artworks as she is of the perspective that art is the language of the human soul, being part of fashions and event galas are her ways of unwinding and connecting with the Society; especially Young people who she is so passionate about the transformation of their lives for the better. Contact Info Email address: dkemunto@urbantechforhope.com

Board Members

Feven Alemseged, Co-founder

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  Feven is a certified lead auditor on Quality Management System and an advocate for quality service delivered by the health sectors in Ethiopia. She is a change-driver leader who is working as Vice President at the YALI association board of Ethiopia. She is a health professional holding an MBA with 11 years of professional experience with more than 6 years of that experience are at a senior management level. Some of the positions she has held were Compliance and Quality Assurance Director, technical assessor, Consultant, Program Director, and mentor. Feven has served in respected offices such as the International Clinical Laboratories & Ethiopian Quality Award Organization. 2019, Feven co-founded Urban Tech For Hope and currently serves as the Program Director of the organization. Through her work, she has initiated and led many impactful educational and advocacy programs and interventions online and in communities reaching thousands of people in South Africa alone. Feven has also led highly complex public engagement processes on quality enhancement issues affecting those served in the health facilities and communities. She is often called upon to consult on Accreditation and share her expertise on issues relating to International Standards, compliance, and auditing. Her vision is to promote a healthy, resilient, and empowered community where people are connected and build up each other. Feven has been selected by the prestigious Young African Leaders Initiative Leadership program (2019). She is also a contributor to the YALI Association Board of Ethiopia as a Vice President.   Contact Info Email address: falemseged@urbantechforhope.com

Senior Management

RODGERS O. KONGINA, Director HIV/ AIDS & SRH

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BIOGRAPHY: Rodgers is The Director HIV/ AIDS and Sexual Reproductive Health. Rodgers is a public health expert, very experienced in infectious diseases, research (both clinical and observational studies), Change Management, Cost effectiveness analysis, costing, budgeting, modelling, proposal writing, Project planning and management, monitoring evaluation, Research consultancy skills, project evaluation, Adolescents care and HIV Programming having worked for different organizations both local and international. EDUCATION Currently he is pursuing his PhD in Health Economics and Policy (Health care financing option) at University of Cape town and holds a Master’s in Public health (epidemiology and biostatistics option) from Jomo Kenyatta university of Agriculture and Technology JKUAT Kenya, Masters of science in Health Economics and policy analysis from University of Nairobi, Bachelor of Art Sociology and Economics (first class honours) from Moi University, post graduate certification in research and consultancy (Makerere University), Diploma in clinical medicine and surgery, He is a Certified Project planning and management consultant, Trainer and has attended and taught numerous trainings across the region. He strongly believes that the future of African solutions shall emanate from Africans themselves. Africa for Africa. Contact Info Email address: rkongina@urbantechforhope.com

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