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Jens von Gierke
Founder & Executive Chairman
Laguna Niguel, CA USA
Recognising the need for sustainable support of children’s education and well being, Jens founded WAVE Children’s Foundation in 2020 to enrich learning environments and expand opportunities for youth in Kenya. Through WAVE, Jens strives to nurture the whole child by promoting health, reducing barriers inside and outside the classroom, and guiding young people toward bright futures full of possibility. Driven by compassion and hope, WAVE serves as a nurturing presence in communities, helping children thrive academically and in life.
Nicole von Gierke
Co-Founder
Laguna Niguel, CA USA
Nicole has cultivated a nurturing bond with the WAVE CF youth, serving as a warm and uplifting presence in their lives. Though separated by physical distance, her heart remains ever-present with the children in Africa owing to her profound devotion to their happiness and wellbeing. Whether through organizing impactful fundraising events, spreading awareness to mobilize resources, or through hands-on volunteer work, Nicole continually strives to bring joy and optimism into the young lives frequently darkened by misfortune. Her vibrant smile and compassionate spirit never fail to cheer up the children during her visits.
Natalia von Gierke
Internal Coordinator
San Diego, CA USA
Moved by the trans-formative power of her 2018 trip to Kenya, Natalia has found purpose in using her talents to uplift vulnerable children. Now a working for an IT Company at San Diego CA, she dedicates her skills in digital media and global business to give voice to young lives in need. As internal Coordinator for her family’s non-profit, she bridges vital connections between nations to implement projects on the ground. Fueled by passion and compassion alike, Natalia brings both strategy and heart to empower youth halfway around the world.
Sophia von Gierke
External Coordinator
San Diego, CA USA
Driven by compassion, Sophia brings her whole heart to the children of Africa. A student-athlete at Point Loma Nazarene, she delights in blending her passion for sports, nutrition and service into her work with WAVE Children’s Foundation. Whether getting creative with arts and crafts or keeping active through play, Sophia connects with youth through joy. By teaching children healthy cooking traditions that nourish every body, she helps lay the foundation for healthy lives filled with promise. Guided by her unyielding care, she runs towards a future where every child has the support they need to thrive.
Brian Munene
Project Manager
Kenya
Guided by a spirit of service, Brian dedicates his hospitality expertise to enriching children’s lives. The native Kenyan understands that when we unite in purpose, even small acts can equate to unlocked potential for youth in need. Now as project coordinator for WAVE CF, Brian draws on his compassion and nearly a decade in tourism to spearhead initiatives granting access to education. Whether raising awareness, planning fundraisers or opening doors, he moves with the community close to his heart – believing that the right tools positioned early can empower young people to write their own futures.
Saitoti Ole Nemwatata
ICT Coordinator
Kenya
Saitoti is an ICT educator and coordinator from the Maasai community, using technology to open learning opportunities for children, youth, and elders at the Maasai Mara ICT centre as his way of giving back to the community. With a background in Tourism Management, he brings a deep understanding of community, culture, and sustainability, using digital skills as a pathway to education, empowerment, and local development.
