About RISE Ubuntu

Rise Ubuntu is a community-centred organisation grounded in the belief that human flourishing is inherently collective. Drawing from the principle of “Ubuntu,” the African philosophy of shared humanity; that one’s humanity is deeply interconnected with the humanity of others. Rise Ubuntu exists to cultivate systems of opportunity that enable individuals and communities to grow together with dignity, responsibility and purpose.

The organisation is committed to addressing structural barriers to education, livelihoods and long-term development by advancing initiatives that integrate individual preparation with community resilience. Rise Ubuntu does not pursue impact through isolated interventions, but through thoughtfully designed frameworks that recognise the social, economic and relational ecosystems in which people live.

As the governing and strategic body, RISE Ubuntu provides institutional oversight, ethical accountability and long-term vision for its initiatives. Through this role, the organisation ensures that programs remain community-rooted, sustainable and aligned with its core values, while retaining the flexibility to respond to evolving local needs.

Vision

A Zambia where motivated young people, regardless of background, have a clear, supported pathway to higher education, while pursuing meaningful work and community leadership.

Mission

To serve the community and equip underprivileged Zambian youths with the knowledge and skills necessary to access higher education opportunities for better livelihoods.

Core Values

Equity

Talent is universal; opportunity is not. We work to correct that imbalance.

Integrity

Transparency, accountability and ethical leadership guide all operations.

Stewardship

Resources are managed carefully, purposefully and sustainably.

Community Rootedness

Long-term change begins within communities, not outside them.

Preparation over Promise

We prioritise readiness and resilience over quick outcomes.

Adaptive Leadership & Integration

Rise Ubuntu adopts a deliberately flexible governance approach to support sustainability and responsiveness. Accordingly:

  • Leadership structures may be expanded, reduced or reconfigured as initiatives grow, merge or change in scope;
  • Executive leadership responsibilities may be shared, delegated or consolidated where such arrangements enhance effectiveness and organisational coherence;
  • The Council may, where appropriate, combine initiatives or their leadership structures to reduce administrative burden or strengthen strategic alignment.

All such decisions are guided by the principle of organisational coherence, ensuring that growth does not compromise accountability, clarity or purpose.

Governance Philosophy & Model

RISE Ubuntu operates under a centralised governance model designed to ensure accountability, strategic coherence, ethical stewardship, and long-term institutional integrity across all initiatives and programs.

The Organisation is governed by a Governing Council, which holds ultimate fiduciary responsibility for the Organisation, while recognising the role of the Founding Director as custodian of the Organisation’s vision and institutional identity.

The Council governs RISE Ubuntu as a whole, rather than individual initiatives, and provides oversight across all current and future programs, including Pathways and any other initiatives established by the Organisation.

Founding Directors

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Governing Council

Chairperson

Governing Council

Oversees council meetings, strategic direction, and fiduciary responsibilities.

Founding Directors (ex-officio)

Martine Mzeche, Melvin Musonda

Custodians of the founding vision; serve on Council by virtue of their role.

Vice Chairperson

Governing Council

Supports the Chair and assumes duties in their absence.

Secretary

Governing Council

Manages council records, minutes, and official correspondence.

Treasurer

Governing Council

Oversees financial planning, budgeting, and reporting.

Legal and Advisory Affairs

Governing Council

Provides legal guidance and advises on governance matters.

Ordinary Member

Governing Council

Contributes to deliberations and decisions; may hold multiple seats.