In the vibrant streets of Eastleigh, Nairobi is a compassionate and determined Next Generation Leadership Program (NGLP) alumnus from Malawi, Brother Emmanuel Saopa. 

Br Emmanuel stands as a beacon of hope for the local community. His journey to the helm at the Sustainable Development Program docket at the Maria Training Centre is a testament to the transformative power of education, determination, faith and the desire to make a real difference in people’s lives.

The Imani Training Centre was established in 1987 with an initial focus to help distressed women, often pregnant and abandoned, receive both personal counseling and vocational skills training. Over the years it has grown and developed new activities such as uniform production, printing, branding and garment making to empower mostly needy women and children.

Br Emmanuel’s genuine concern for the less fortunate and leadership qualities extends far beyond the walls of the training center. He leads an annual programme where they reach out to the less fortunate in the streets, offering them food, clothing, and most importantly, a glimmer of hope. 

Br Emmanuel attributes his great leap to the support of his scholarship under the NGLP at Tangaza University which arrived at a crucial point in his life. Grounded in his faith, he believes that genuine leadership comes from understanding the needs of the people he serves. His servant leadership approach has endeared him to his the local youth who are highly motivated by him.

Br Emmanuel’s dedication has not gone unnoticed by his colleagues. Br Chola Mulenga, the Director at Maria Training Centre speaks highly of his growth as a leader and making significant contributions to the organization. Through his unwavering dedication to sustainable development and inclusive leadership, he has brought about meaningful change in the lives of countless individuals in the community.