Our Story, Our Commitment
The journey behind our mission to empower Uganda's youth.
The Story of Our Founder
Bumpenje Joseph's story is one of resilience and determination, shaped by a childhood full of adversity. After his parents left him and his five siblings to fend for themselves, they found refuge under a large tree. When the tree was cut down for development, their sanctuary was lost, but a tradition was born: they began planting trees on their birthdays, a symbol of resilience and a tribute to the shelter they lost.
Driven by a passion to ensure no child would face the same challenges he did, Joseph aspired to become a teacher. He pursued a Bachelor of Science in Education from Makerere University with a clear vision: to create an environment where vulnerable children could access free education while promoting environmental conservation.
Today, Joseph is a professional high school mathematics teacher, a Climate Speaker, a Foster Parent, and a community leader. He brings his life experience and unwavering compassion to WM Smile Generation, especially in his work supporting refugee children, drawing from his own journey to provide them with hope and essential aid.
Our Vision
A Thriving Future for Every Child
We envision a Uganda where every child and youth has the equitable opportunity to receive a quality education, is empowered to care for their wellbeing, and lives in a sustainable environment, enabling them to become leaders of a resilient and prosperous nation.
Our Mission
To Nurture, Educate, and Empower
Our mission is to provide transformative educational programs, accessible resources for refugee children, and engaging nature awareness initiatives. We work hand-in-hand with communities to build supportive ecosystems where young people can discover their potential and build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
The Principles That Guide Us
Empowerment
Community
Integrity
Sustainability
Transparency
Our Team
JOSEPH BUMPENJE
CEO & Founder
Our dedicated educator and founder committed to providing vulnerable children in Uganda with access to free education. Beyond education, he is passionate about raising environmental awareness, integrating sustainability and conservation into the NGO’s mission. With a background as a high school math teacher and community leader, Joseph drives efforts to support children and families facing hardship. He also fosters children and invests personally in their education.
ORNELLA GIGANTE
Director of Operations
As a software engineer, she brings technical expertise and leadership to support the NGO’s mission and operations, leading teams and projects. She is also the founder & CEO of MindyCore, an EdTech company specializing in accessible digital solutions and educational software. MindyCore is a partner and supporter of WM Smile Generation, helping to enhance its educational impact through technology and human support.
QUAN NGUYEN
Website Administrator
Quan leads the development of the WM Smile Generation website, transitioning from a career in import-export to become a versatile technology leader. His skills span the entire software lifecycle, from developer to solution architect. A firm believer in giving back, Quan also founded Skill-Wanderer, a non-profit EdTech platform. This passion for empowering others through education, especially for children, is what fuels his deep personal commitment to our mission and makes his contribution both professional and deeply personal.
KAYLA PILLAY
Content Specialist
A content specialist from South Africa that transforms the organization’s mission into compelling digital stories that inspire global action. With expertise in authentic storytelling and strategic engagement, Kayla ensures that the transformative work of WM Smile Generation is communicated professionally and effectively to a worldwide audience. Her focus is on driving sustained engagement and growth to support the NGO’s vision.
PRECIOUS PABALELO MATLALA
Donations and Fundraising Lead
A skilled professional from Limpopo, South Africa, with qualifications in Tourism, Business Management, and added expertise in Human Rights, Environmental Law, Conservation, and Biodiversity. She brings extensive experience working across East and Southern Africa in operations, NGOs, and international organizations. Precious leads the donations and fundraising efforts in the organization, leveraging her expertise in event operations, stakeholder engagement, and project coordination. Passionate about humanitarian work, she is dedicated to creating opportunities for vulnerable children to overcome barriers and thrive while championing environmental conservation for a healthier future.
MUHAMMAD HANIF DANLADI
Coach and Content Creator
A software engineer with a humble heart and big dreams. He excels as an academic, entrepreneurship, and habits coach, helping individuals develop essential skills and mindset for success. Alongside his coaching talents, Muhammad is a creative content creator, combining his passions for AI-driven fashion design, graphic design, and poetry writing. He is deeply passionate about connecting with diverse talents and perspectives, inspiring collaboration and growth within WM Smile Generation Uganda.
DAVIDE CELENTANO
Agro-Environmental Content Specialist
As a Agriculture Science and Technology specialist, he brings a global perspective shaped by years of living and traveling around the world. His passion for plants and nature has guided his career as an agronomist. At WM Smile Generation Uganda, Davide applies his expertise to create engaging content that educates and raises awareness about environmental issues and sustainable agriculture among young people in Uganda. He believes everything is about people and is dedicated to supporting the NGO’s mission through authentic and impactful storytelling.
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