Our Team

Champion Chanzige could not operate successfully without a team a willing volunteers. The charity are so grateful to those that give up their free time to help these inspirational young people.

Board Members

Philippa Jacobs
Founder and treasurer

In 2013 I took myself off to Tanzania and spent ten days in a primary school. The previous years had been spent working in UK schools. I expected there to be big differences between the schools but was not prepared for the lack of basic teaching resources and the terrible state of the classrooms.

The thing that motivated me to set up Champion Chanzige was the attitude of the children in Tanzania, they are so keen to learn and consider an education a privilege as well as being amongst the happiest children I have ever met.

I had to try and help.

Simon Jacobs
Secretary

I was inspired by the stories my wife told me after her first visit to the school and community in Tanzania so wanted to be involved with the charity and the great work done to help the amazingly enthusiastic children!

I have now visited a number of times and am always inspired by the effort the children make to even get to school and learn - they clearly value the education they receive.

I use my skills to assist with the financial aspects of the charity including preparation of annual accounts over a number of years.

Caroline Simons
Chairperson

Having been friends with Philippa for over thirty years it did not surprise me all that she wanted to take on this challenge.

She suggested that I join her on a Trip to Tanzania and from that moment I was hooked. Trying to make a difference to these enthusiastic young learners was such an obvious thing to want to do.

When Phil asked me to be Chairperson I was delighted to accept.

My back ground in financial admin has been an advantage but I am probably better known for not allowing anyone to leave an event without buying a raffle ticket!

Board of Trustees

Steph Simons
Trustee

Being the baby of the team I like to think that I bring new ideas and fresh enthusiasm.

I visited Tanzania, and saw the work of Champion Chanzige in 2016, a trip I will never forget.

I now work with children with special needs in the UK and hope that some of the skills I have gained through that work makes me a valuable trustee.

Yvette Harber
Trustee

I meet Philippa whilst working in a primary school.  Our head teacher was so taken with Champion Chanzige he invited staff to have the opportunity to take a working sabbatical.  With my love of travel and adventure I was the first name down.

The experience has led to a great school connection with children exchanging letters and fund raising for the charity providing such motivated children/young adults in Tanzania with more educational chances and having access to better equipment, books and supplies.

My time in education has been invaluable in helping get our children involved and has given them a real insight into the differences and challenges other children meet every day.

Elaine Cole
Trustee

Info to come

Sarah Hill
Trustee

Info to come