Meet the passionate team behind our mission to eradicate poverty and social problems in Malawi
Founded by visionary students from the University of Malawi, CAPS (Centre Against Poverty and Social Problems) emerged from a shared commitment to address the pressing challenges facing Malawian communities.
Born from student activism at the University of Malawi in 1999
Officially registered as a non-profit organization in 2001
Started with community literacy programs and HIV/AIDS awareness
Founded by University of Malawi students with a vision to combat poverty
Officially registered as a non-governmental organization
Expanded to include healthcare and environmental programs
Launched women empowerment and child protection initiatives
Partnered with international organizations for larger scale projects
Reached milestone of impacting 10,000+ lives across Malawi
Adapted programs for COVID-19 response and digital inclusion
Celebrated 24 years of service with expanded youth programs
The passionate University of Malawi students who started it all in 1999
Chairperson & Co-Founder
A visionary leader with a PhD in Development Studies, Dr. Chikwawa conceptualized CAPS while studying at Chancellor College. His passion for community development continues to guide our strategic direction.
Executive Director & Co-Founder
With a Master's in Social Work, Grace brought grassroots mobilization expertise. She oversees day-to-day operations and has been instrumental in building community partnerships across Malawi.
Health Programs Director & Co-Founder
A medical doctor by training, Dr. Gondwe pioneered our health initiatives. His expertise in public health has shaped our HIV/AIDS prevention and maternal health programs for over two decades.
These three visionaries were joined by seven other University of Malawi students who formed the initial founding team: Sarah Banda (Education Lead), Mike Jere (Finance), Alice Phiri (Community Outreach), David Mwale (Agriculture), Ruth Kachingwe (Women's Rights), John Nyasulu (Youth Programs), and Mercy Chipeta (Administration).
Meet the passionate individuals driving CAPS Malawi's mission forward
Executive Director
Oversees all operations, strategy, and partnerships. 24 years with CAPS.
Programs Director
Manages all project implementation and monitoring. MA in Development Studies.
Finance & Administration Director
Handles budgeting, financial reporting, and administrative operations.
Health Programs Manager
Oversees HIV/AIDS, maternal health, and nutrition programs
Education Manager
Manages OVC support, vocational training, and adult literacy
Agriculture & Environment Manager
Leads sustainable farming and reforestation initiatives
Women's Rights Manager
Oversees gender equality and economic empowerment programs
Senior Field Officer - Mzuzu Region
Implements community projects, conducts needs assessments, and mobilizes communities. 15 years experience.
Administrative Officer
Handles office administration, record keeping, and logistics. 18 years with CAPS.
Monitoring & Evaluation Officer
Tracks project impact, collects data, and prepares reports. MSc in Statistics.
Young professionals and students gaining experience while contributing to our mission
Program Development Intern
Final year Social Work student at University of Malawi. Assisting with community assessments and program design.
Environmental Programs Intern
Agriculture student specializing in environmental conservation. Supporting reforestation and climate resilience projects.
Women Empowerment Intern
Gender Studies graduate assisting with the Budala Women's Group and gender-based violence prevention programs.
How we're organized to maximize impact and efficiency
Provides strategic oversight and governance
Implements strategy and oversees operations
Implements field projects and community work
Field Officers
Community Volunteers
Interns
Partners
We're always looking for passionate individuals to join our team as staff members, volunteers, or interns.
Join our dedicated team of professionals
Gain valuable experience in community development
Contribute your skills to meaningful projects