EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND FOUNDER

Thomas Derdak has more than 30 years of experience in the creation and implementation of development programs in sub-Saharan Africa. He is an accomplished specialist in international development with wide-ranging expertise in strategic planning, organizational development, financial management, program development and fundraising. A nonprofit entrepreneur, he has fostered successful international collaborations and formal partnerships with an acute sensitivity to cultural nuances regarding developmental issues, business practices, political conditions and social contexts.

Tom is the co-author, with GAA board member David Ingram, of The Ethics of Development: An Introduction (2018). A senior lecturer in philosophy at Loyola University Chicago, he holds a PhD in philosophy from the University of Chicago.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST, KENYA

Josephine Aloo is a dedicated community development professional with deep roots in Kibera. Born and raised in Kibera slums, she brings authentic local knowledge and a genuine passion for community transformation to her work with Global Alliance for Africa (GAA).

With a diploma in community development, Josephine has transformed her personal experiences into professional expertise. A professional field officer for GAA, she coordinates various projects throughout Nairobi, leveraging her understanding of local dynamics to ensure GAA’s initiatives truly meet community needs.

Josephine serves as a bank signatory for GAA's Nairobi operations, demonstrating the trust placed in her financial stewardship and accountability. Her extensive experience includes coordinating GAA development projects across Nairobi, conducting data surveys and community needs assessments, identifying and supporting vulnerable women living with HIV, developing programs for orphans and vulnerable children, mobilizing community volunteers and resources, and building partnerships with local organizations

LIBRARIAN, KIBERA, KENYA

Erica Anyango has been an integral part of GAA’s library in Kibera since 2012. She helps children get the appropriate grade-level textbooks for their studying and makes sure they stay on track for success.

Erica was born in Nairobi and raised in the Kibera slum. After completing her secondary education, she launched several small businesses. In 2007, she taught at the kindergarten level and, following Kenya’s widespread post-election violence in 2008, she opened her own school. She also worked at a community clinic and a computer school before joining GAA’s Kibera library.

Erica has seen many lives transformed because of GAA’s library and is proud of the impact she has had in her community.

PROJECT COORDINATOR, MOROCCO

Mohamed Bouia serves as project coordinator for GAA’s digital learning program in Morocco. He was worked at Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane as a social actions coordinator and event coordinator. He has also been a French teacher for many years.

Mohamed is passionate about soccer, electronics, traveling, and helping others—especially school children—and sipping a nice cup of coffee.

Information forthcoming

DIGITAL LEARNING PROGRAM COORDINATOR, UGANDA

Dominic Saviour Leku has been actively involved in implementing GAA’s digital learning program in Uganda. He has focused on Integrating information and communication technology (ICT) into the secondary education curriculum in Uganda and empowering disadvantaged students with essential digital skills. He is passionate about extending access to digital educational resources to all learners.

Dominic holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science and chemistry and a postgraduate diploma in education. He has 20 years of experience teaching advanced-level secondary education in Uganda and three years of experience as a lecturer in ICT. He currently serves as an instructor at the Uganda Institute of Information and Communication Technology, specializing in ICT skills development. 

PROGRAM OFFICER, NAIROBI, KENYA

Gideon Ochieng Ogalla is a GAA program officer in Kenya and leads the implementation of digital learning programs in four schools in Nairobi. He is responsible for equipping schools with digital tools, training educators and enhancing student engagement through technology-driven learning. He is a passionate advocate for digital education and is focused on fostering an inclusive, interactive learning environment for students.

Gideon envisions a future where every student in Africa has access to quality digital education. He is committed to leveraging technology to bridge the digital divide, empower educators, and equip young learners with critical skills for a globally competitive future. Through innovation and strategic partnerships, he aims to transform education and unlock opportunities for the next generation.

Information Forthcoming