Neema Mbonela is the founder of Maktaba Ya Watoto Kakita Jamii (Maktaba). As both founder and trustee, Neema sets the strategic direction of the organization, oversees fundraising activities, and engages in community outreach. She brings a wealth of experience in leadership, with a strong background in managing complex organizational structures and people management.

Neema brings over 15 years of experience in Human Resources, having worked across a diverse range of sectors, including both for-profit and non-profit organizations. Additionally, she holds the position of President and Founder of Utu Consulting, an HR Consulting firm, where she leverages her extensive expertise to provide strategic HR solutions.

She holds a BA in International Business from Fordham University and an MBA in Human Resources Management from Goldey-Beacom College. Currently, Neema is furthering her education by pursuing an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Montclair State University. Based in New Jersey, her work is informed by a blend of global perspectives and local understanding, making her a versatile and effective leader in both her professional and philanthropic endeavors.

Gwantwa Kasamala serves as the Trustee and Treasurer of Maktaba Ya Watoto Katija Jamii (Maktaba). In this role, she is instrumental in maintaining effective governance of the organization’s affairs, ensuring financial viability, and upholding proper processes and procedures for the maintenance of all financial records and decisions. Outside of Maktaba, Gwantwas serves as the Treasurer of The Ocean International Community Church.

With over 15 years of professional experience, Gwantwa’s career has spanned across several sectors. Prior to her current positions, she amassed expertise in audit and banking, subsequently transitioning to the not-for-profit sector. This diverse background has equipped her with a unique perspective and skill that enhance her effectiveness as a Treasurer.

In her current role, she specializes in administrative setup and operations, playing a pivotal part in educating employees on adopting progressive systems within the organizational ecosystem.
Prior to her current position, Gwantwa’s career encompassed roles in auditing and banking before transitioning to the not-for-profit sector. She holds a BA in Community Development from the University of South Africa, and a B.Com in Accounting from the University of Cape Town
Based in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Gwantwa continues to contribute her vast knowledge and skills to the growth and efficiency of the organizations she works with.

As the Executive Director of Maktaba Ya Watoto Katika Jamii, Dominica Balama is central to steering the organization towards its strategic objectives. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, she plays a crucial role in executing the strategic plan and aligning the library’s mission with the community’s needs. Her leadership is essential in driving the library’s growth and amplifying its positive impact on children’s education and well-being. In her daily role, Dominica oversees the operational and educational programming at Maktaba.

Dominica is an educator, social worker, and champion of children’s rights. She brings over ten years of experience in education and social work. Outside of Maktaba, Dominica currently teaches at Genesis Schools in Dar-es-salaam, Tanzania. As an educator, she is responsible for developing a curriculum to encourage learning and inspire her students to reach their potential. As a leader, she trains new teachers to be effective, compassionate educators who can inspire the next generation. She also works as a social welfare officer for Community Health and Social Welfare Africa (COMHESWA). In this role, she is responsible for supporting her clients through various challenges and helping them get the resources they need to lead fulfilling lives.

An avid learner, Dominica is always looking to develop her skills. She holds several certificates in social work, teaching, entrepreneurship, and communications. Dominica has a diploma in social work and a bachelor’s in social work from the Institute of Social Work in Tanzania.
Dominica is based in Mbagala Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Rachel Bithony Kulinga, our dedicated librarian at Maktaba Ya Watoto Katika Jamii Tanzania, has been an integral part of our team since 2024. Focusing on enhancing the library experience for all patrons, Rachel expertly manages the organization of library materials, ensures easy access to information and resources, and plays a pivotal role in facilitating diverse library programming that engages and educates the children in our community.

Beyond her daily responsibilities, Rachel is committed to continuously improving our library’s operations. She collaborates closely with educational staff to support student’s academic needs and aligns library resources with curriculum requirements to maximize their utility. Her efforts in organizing workshops and events have significantly enriched our library’s educational impact.

Rachel earned her certification in library records and information studies from the Tanzania Library Services Board, underscoring her expertise in managing library systems and information technology. Her educational background and professional dedication make her a valuable asset to Maktaba, where she continues to inspire both colleagues and library visitors with her knowledge and commitment to service.

Our advisory team is pivotal in steering Maktaba Ya Watoto Katika Jamii towards its vision. This diverse group of experts in education, community development, and library sciences provides strategic direction, fosters essential partnerships, and champions our mission.

Their guidance ensures that our library programs are both impactful and sustainable, playing a direct role in empowering the children of Tanzania through education.